7th District lawmakers discuss the beginning of the 2026 session on KOMW Radio

January 19, 2026

In the first week of the 2026 legislative session, Sen. Shelly Short and Reps. Andrew Engell and Hunter Abell outlined early bill activity, key policy debates, and opportunities for public input. Short highlighted legislation to give smaller school districts flexibility on green energy requirements in colder climates and urged participation on her “ungulate” wildlife management bill addressing deer, elk and moose populations. She emphasized the need for balance between predator and prey to protect wildlife and livestock, and criticized the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s $4.5 million fiscal note for work she said should already be occurring.

Engell discussed his bill allowing ARNPs and PAs to continue working independently in emergency departments, along with a proposal to warranty peeling license plates so drivers are not forced to pay replacement fees. He also highlighted a gravel pit permitting bill aimed at helping small businesses compete, and raised concerns about legislation he said would add fees to electric bills under the guise of wildfire prevention.

Abell reviewed several bills, including HB 2239 to allow limited family burial grounds on private property, HB 2179 addressing retirement contributions for Port of Pend Oreille workers, and HB 2514 supporting a global war on terrorism memorial on the Capitol campus. The lawmakers also warned against new tax proposals, including a payroll head tax and renewed pushes for a state income tax, arguing both would worsen affordability, particularly in rural areas.

Listeners were encouraged to sign in, testify, and engage in upcoming committee hearings.