LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Rep. Bailey used common sense

To the editor:

Nancy Jordan needs to read the bills she claims prove Barbara Bailey is out of touch with the majority of views held by her constituents.

Barbara sponsored more than a hundred bills during 2007-2008; a significant number of which dealt with accountability in government, economic development, education, farming, health insurance and taxation — the critical issues facing us in the 10th District.

HB 2514 establishes a 300-foot boundary for boaters and requires “education” of the general public on how to reduce the risk of disturbing these marine mammals — education already taking place.

HB 2514 then turns around and preempts the very individuals threatening the orca population: persons lawfully participating in commercial fishing, and under certain circumstances canoes, fishing vessels, kayaks, personal watercraft, rafts, recreational vessels, tour boats, whale-watching boats, vessels engaged in whale-watching activities or other small craft including power boats and sail boats.

Our southern resident orcas were listed as endangered in 2006 by the federal government, and a proposed recovery plan has been released. The federal government has also initiated the process to adopt orca conservation rules.

Barbara Bailey used common sense when she voted against HB 2514. She’s earned our trust and my vote in November 2008.

Charlona Sawyer

Greenbank

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