Press release:

Earlier this week, the House Democratic Caucus announced its committee structure for the upcoming session. State Representative Joe Fitzgibbon (D-Burien, 34th District) will continue to serve as vice-chair of the House Local Government Committee.

The Local Government Committee considers issues relating to operations and financing of counties, cities, and certain special districts. The committee also considers matters relating to the State Environmental Policy Act, Growth Management Act, and land use issues.

"Making sure we keep our strong environmental protections in place will be one of my top priorities this session," said Fitzgibbon.

Fitzgibbon was elected in November to the Deputy Majority Whip leadership position by his peers in the caucus. He'll assist the Majority Whip - Rep. Kevin Van De Wege (D-Sequim) - in organizational matters such as member attendance, vote tallying, and mentoring new legislators on House processes and procedures.

"I'm honored to be selected by the caucus to serve in a leadership role," said Fitzgibbon. "I'm looking forward to working with my colleagues on the many challenges facing us this session."

Fitzgibbon's top three legislative priorities for the upcoming session are:
1) Adequately fund basic education.
2) Enact a transportation investment package that grows our economy.
3) Keep protections in place that ensure a clean and healthy environment.

Fitzgibbon will also serve on the Government Operations & Elections Committee, Transportation Committee, and the newly-created House Finance Committee that will consider issues relating to state and local revenues such as tax increases, decreases, and exemptions.

The legislative session will convene on January 14, 2013.