The state Legislature got down to hearing testimony on proposed bills, often from people with deeply personal stakes in public policy, during lawakers' second week of work in the 2013 session.
Trudee and Hope Barfield of Orting wait for their chance to testify before a Senate committee in support of funding the state Family Medical Leave Act on Tuesday. Mark Barfield told the committee he used family leave time to take several months off to help care for Hope's early medical problems, but Mark Barfield told the committee he could have used the funding envisioned under the state act. After a procedural switch by committee chair Sen. Janéa Holmquist Newbry, R-Moses Lake, many who came to testify were turned away.
Karen Derrig waits for a ride for her and her two mannequins and one stuffed husky Monday. Derrig visited the capitol as part of a lobby day for the outdoor recreation industry, and brought the props to use in a table display.
Chris Finch and Emma Mutcher look on Friday at a student rally they attended against cuts to higher education funding. About 250 students packed the capitol rotunda to hear lawmakers and educators speak.
Timiko Somerville and Barbara Robinson look on Friday at a student rally against cuts to higher education funding.
Sen. Don Benton, R-Vancouver, discusses bills scheduled for committee review with staffer Alison Mendiola Thursday. Benton is known for his prolific bill writing.
Students from Centralia's Oakview Elementary look on Friday as a capitol staffer describes the history of the Rotunda.
