Dayton Chronicle - Your Hometown News Source

PROSSER–Governor Jay Inslee needs to take recent reopening actions a step further, says Rep. Bill Jenkin, R-16-Prosser, this week.

Rep. Jenkin urged Gov. Inslee to allow small businesses to begin opening their doors.

"It's time for Washington state to reopen for business safely," Jenkin said Tuesday. "The recent steps taken by Gov. Jay Inslee are a good start."

This week, Inslee announced steps to partially reopen residential construction, and open recreational fishing, golf courses, and some state parks.

"Opening certain areas of residential construction, along with recreational fishing, golf courses, and other outdoor activities will help our state," Jenkin said. "However, there is so much more that needs to be done to get our state back on track.

"Small businesses are suffering immensely," he said. "Many of them will never recover if these restrictions remain in place for much longer.

"I urge, you, Gov. Inslee, to empower the 39 counties in our state, to recognize the autonomy inherent to these counties, and assist them in their endeavor to restart their economies," Jenkin said.

"Restarting our economy is not a one-size-fits-all approach as each county has a differing set of circumstances. We should not intimidate the governing bodies closest to the people. Counties can serve their constituents best without threats of legal action.

"I call on you, Gov. Inslee, to work with local governments to move us out of this current situation. It's time to move our communities forward and get Washington state back to work."