Newly elected 19th District Representative Joel McEntire officially takes office today

Rep. Joel McEntire officially began serving his first term representing the 19th Legislative District as the Washington State Legislature convened on Monday.

Due to COVID restrictions, McEntire was able to take the oath of office early and was sworn-in on Friday, Jan. 8.

“It is a great honor and very humbling to represent the citizens of the 19th Legislative District,” said McEntire, R-Cathlamet. “While we are faced with challenging issues this legislative session, I am ready to get to work and I look forward to working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle moving our state forward.”

McEntire will serve as the Assistant Ranking Republican on the House Capital Budget Committee. He has also been appointed to the Education and Rural Development, Agriculture and Natural Resources committees.

“I am excited to serve in a leadership position for our caucus on one of the state budget committees,” said McEntire. “The capital budget focuses on bricks and mortar type projects for our K-12 schools, colleges, local governments and community projects. It helps spur job creation and economic growth while also protecting our farms, waterways and environment.”

McEntire adds that his background and the district align well with his other committee assignments.

“Being an educator and a parent on the Education Committee during a time when some students have not had in-person learning since March provides an important perspective as we work to get kids back in school and be successful,” said McEntire. “Natural resources, farming and rural economic development are critical to our local economy and the future of Southwest Washington. I look forward to being a strong voice for our district on this committee.”

The 2021 legislative session will be conducted virtually due to the pandemic. The session is scheduled for 105 days.

###

Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov