Welcome to Joe Schmick for State House

AGRICULTURE - Agriculture is one of the most important industries to the 9th District and the state. As a former second-generation farmer, I dealt with the challenges on a daily basis. This past session there were many attempts to burden the agricultural industry with additional costs that could not be passed on. We must protect the jobs that agriculture brings to our region. I will work continually to keep the agricultural industry healthy.

WATER - Water is the lifeblood of our rural agriculture communities and their economies. I will work to protect our access to water and keep our agricultural economy thriving.

JOBS - We all know that it is not the government's function to create jobs. Government needs to foster an atmosphere where jobs can thrive. Small business provides the majority of jobs in our state and country. According to the Small Business Administration (SBA) 53.3% of all jobs are in small businesses. Taxes, regulatory environment, and size and scope of government all directly impact our employers' ability to expand job opportunities.

TAXES - We don't have a revenue problem, we have a spending problem. The state's two-year budget in 2011-13 was $30.9 billion. Ten years later, the 2021-23 biennial budget has more than doubled to over $65 billion. This rate of spending is unsustainable and far outpaces the incomes of Washington residents, especially those of us in Eastern Washington. We need to curb state spending and treat taxpayers with respect.  

EDUCATION - I have three principles on education. First, there should be more control given to the local school board. Decisions made a t the local level are usually the best decisions. Secondly, the burgeoning state education bureaucracy needs to be kept in check. And third, parents have a right to be involved in their children's education and know what is being taught in the classroom.

PUBLIC SAFETY - Democrats in the state Legislature have attempted public safety and police reforms that have made our communities, families, and students less safe. Our police need the tools, support, and clarity of law in order to keep us safe. Right now, they are not getting that. I will continue to work on legislation that allows our law enforcement officers to do their jobs and keep our communities safe.