Mark Johnson, WR Senior VP of Policy and Government Affairs, presented the association’s top policy priority issues for 2023 at the Puyallup Sumner Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast meeting on Tuesday of this week.
The top issue Johnson highlighted was public safety, retail theft, and organized retail crime. He emphasized how a multi-pronged approach was necessary to fully address the problem impacting retailers, their customers, and employees.
Tara Doyle-Enneking, President & CEO of the chamber, presented their top issues, which includes public safety and retail theft. Puyallup Sumner Chamber is a South Sound Chamber of Commerce Legislative Coalition leader.
Former Pierce County Council Member, Shawn Bunney, facilitated a discussion with 25th District state legislators Senator Chris Gildon, Rep. Kelly Chambers, Rep. Cyndy Jacobsen, Pierce County Council Members Dave Morell, Marty Campbell, and newly appointed Paul Herrera.
The most significant issue on the elected officials’ minds was their concerns about public safety. In particular, they intend to focus on reversing some of the damaging “police reform” legislation that would again allow police to pursue criminals. Additionally, the legislature will soon address the recent WA State Supreme Court decision allowing the possession and use of unlawful and dangerous drugs while helping folks suffering from substance addiction to get the treatment they need.
Approximately 70 business owners and elected officials attended the annual event. WR looks forward to our continued close partnership with the Puyallup Sumner Chamber of Commerce.
