Rep. Jeff Holy, R-Cheney, was sworn in for his third term as 6th District state representative Monday as the 2017 legislative session got under way.

“There is much work to be done,” said Holy. “We need to buckle down, find solutions and work together to pass a balanced, sustainable budget, fully fund basic education, and get Washingtonians back to work. I look forward to working with the people of my district and the state on the challenges we face.”

Holy will serve on the House Higher Education, Public Safety and Rules committees.

The House Higher Education Committee considers issues relating to the state’s public and independent baccalaureate colleges and universities, public community and technical colleges, and private career schools.

“I am deeply humbled and honored by the faith House Republican leadership has put in my ability to serve as ranking member of the Higher Education Committee,” said Holy. “Even though the Legislature is primarily focused on fully funding basic education, we cannot neglect our higher education institutions. We need to ensure Washington’s high school graduates have the opportunity to complete their educational journey.”

The House Public Safety Committee considers issues relating to law enforcement agencies, crime prevention, criminal penalties and sentencing, impaired driving, registration and civil commitment of sex offenders, adult correctional programs and institutions, and state and local government preparedness to respond to public safety emergencies.

“This assignment fits nicely with my background in law enforcement,” said Holy. “We need to work together to find practical solutions to keep our citizens and communities safe without jeopardizing the integrity of our law enforcement officers.”

The House Rules Committee considers all bills reported from policy and fiscal committees and determines whether, and in what order, to schedule their consideration on the floor of the House.

“In the coming weeks, lawmakers will propose bills, and committees will conduct hearings,” said Holy. “I am honored with the responsibility of serving on the committee that touches every piece of legislation and makes the final decision before it moves forward to the House floor.”

Holy’s office is located at 405 John L. O’Brien Building on the Capitol Campus. He can be reached via email at jeff.holy@leg.wa.gov or (360) 786-7962.

The 2017 session is scheduled to run 105 consecutive days.