State legislation watch

At the state level, we are preparing to push against legislation that would criminalize dissent and assault treaty rights:

• An anti-BDS bill has been proposed by Sen. Michael Baumgartner (R-Spokane). Please write back to me if you want to be part of local efforts resisting this bill.
• SB 5171, introduced by Sen. Doug Ericksen (R-Ferndale), would rescind the Cherry Point aquatic reserve designation
• SB 5009, Ericksen’s “Preventing economic disruption act”

Some good news came out this week about proposed legislation to abolish the death penalty: http://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-ferguson-proposes-bipartisan-bill-end-washington-s-death-penalty.

Locally, Bellingham residents can sign on to this petition to city council for a sanctuary ordinance from the Blue Group. Supporters should plan to wear blue and join the Blue Group at next week’s council meeting at 7 p.m., Monday, Jan. 23.

---