Environment

Climate Change 

Climate change poses a serious threat to our way of life, economy, children, and the future of our planet. Congress must act quickly to combat this existential crisis, including continued investments in clean energy. [LINK to Energy] 

As climate change continues to impact our environment, we must prepare for more frequent and intense natural disasters. I introduced the National Landslide Preparedness Act following the 2014 Oso landslide that killed 43 members of our community. It was signed into law in January 2021 and aims to save lives, protect communities and property, and improve natural disaster emergency preparedness by addressing critical gaps in landslide hazard science and mapping. 

Conservation 

The Pacific Northwest is home to some of our nation’s most beloved national forests, parks, mountains, and waterways. Protecting our environment and natural resources is critical to maintaining our quality of life and preserving it for the next generation. It also benefits our economy as well, generating $22.5 billion each year and creating 227,000 jobs in our state alone. However, our region is experiencing rising sea levels, increasingly acidic oceans, and a surge in insect outbreaks and tree diseases. Congress must enact policies that protect our environment and natural resources before it is too late. 

I was a strong advocate for the permanent reauthorization of the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which has invested $710 million in Washington projects. I’ve toured some of those projects, like the North Creek Forest in Bothell, spoken in support of the program on the House floor, and urged House leadership for full and permanent funding. In August 2020, Congress permanently reauthorized the Land and Water Conservation Fund to help protect our local parks for future generations. 

I will continue to prioritize tackling climate change and preserving our public lands in Congress so that future generations will be able to enjoy the Pacific Northwest, just as we do today.