Marko Liias
State Representative | 21st District | Democrat
Blog
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Save our Bus!
Posted Mar 08 at 4 AM
One of the most heart-breaking effects of this recession has been the impacts on seniors and the disabled. The latest bad news has been the cuts to bus service at Community Transit.
Nearly 40% of the people in our community don't drive, and they depend on transit service to stay mobile. For seniors and the disabled, good bus service is a lifeline that guarantees access to doctor's appointments and other necessities.
In January, I introduced a bill to give Community Transit some more finance tools to help survive the loss of sales tax dollars caused by the recession. The bill did not make it out of the House.
Well, on Friday, I tried again! This time, I offered an amendment to a Senate bill that would give Community Transit the lifeline they need.
I am hopeful that the Senate will agree to my amendment, and give our community a chance to support this vital public service.
For more information, or to contact your state legislators, visit this great advocacy site!
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Politicians aren't special
Posted Jan 30 at 1 AM
Today, I cosponsored a proposed constitutional amendment to limit my own pay in this tough economy. I do not believe that I should be treated any differently than other public servants.
In the 1990s, our state approved a constitutional amendment to allow a citizen commission to set the salary of state elected officials. This was a smart decision to put our salary decisions in independent hands.
Since the constitutional amendment was passed, legislators have not had control over their salary. This means that even in a recession like this one, the commission could still approve an increase.
I think we need to be clear: we deserve equal treatment to every other state employee.
The amendment I cosponsored today would guarantee that whenever there is a general salary freeze on state salaries, legislator salaries would also be frozen.
We all feel the effects of this recession, and we all need to do our part to get the state moving again. This is one tiny step, but I want to walk the walk, not just talk the talk.
You can find out more about the details at the Legislature's website.
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Help for Haiti
Posted Jan 16 at 3 PM
We have all watched with shock and horror as the small island nation of Haiti was rocked by a earthquake. The devastation was magnified by the poverty that already gripped this small country.
Now, it is time for us to help.
Even in the midst of our own economic hardship, we cannot forget the bonds of our common humanity. We must all care for one another, especially in the hour of maximum need.
I have posted a link on the front page for you to visit, and it is listed below as well.
Thanks for your compassion.
Best,
Marko
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Fundraising Freeze in Effect
Posted Dec 10 at 10 PM
As of 11:59pm on Thursday, December 10, 2009, Liias for Legislature can no longer solicit or accept contributions. State law prohibits contributions during the legislative session and in the thirty days prior to the start of the session.
Any contributions that do not meet this timeline will be returned with our sincere thanks.
Thank you all for your support and generosity to my reelection campaign, I look forward to victory in 2010!
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Election 2009 Information
Posted Nov 03 at 1 AM
Make your voice heard! Here are the two ballot drop-off locations in our community:
Mukilteo Library, 4675 Harbour Pointe Blvd, Mukilteo
Lynnwood Library, 19200 44th Ave W, Lynnwood
Both drop-off locations will be open from 7am to 8pm on Election Day.
Here is a link to the online voter's pamphlet.
Snohomish County election results will be available online beginning shortly after 8pm
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The Future of Aerospace
Posted Nov 01 at 1 PM
I am disappointed with Boeing’s decision to locate a second 787 line in South Carolina rather than in Everett. Wednesday’s announcement dashed hopes across the Puget Sound region of more job creation in one of our top industries.
However, Snohomish County remains a global leader in aerospace, with tens of thousands of family-wage jobs at dozens of companies. Our workforce is top notch because Washington has long invested in education and training for aerospace careers.
This decision is a wake-up call to reexamine how we attract and retain businesses, and I will fight to ensure that our state is doing all it can to remain competitive in the future.
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Good Economic News
Posted Sep 10 at 4 AM
After months of challenge, our state's economy is on the road to recovery. Eight months ago, our state's economy was on the brink of collapse. After decisive action by state and national leaders, we have stopped runaway unemployment and a synchronized global recovery is underway.
Here is a sample of quotes from state and national economic leaders:
"You know, it all adds up to this -- in my view, at least: The Recovery Act has played a significant role in changing the trajectory of our economy, and changing the conversation about the economy in this country. Instead of talking about the beginning of a depression, we're talking about the end of a recession -- eight months after taking office."
--Vice President Joe Biden, read more here
"In fact, something unprecedented is happening: We are seeing a synchronized global recovery under way."
--State Economist Arun Raha, read more here
"Unlike in the 1930s, when policy was largely passive and political divisions made international economic and financial cooperation difficult, during the past year monetary, fiscal, and financial policies around the world have been aggressive and complementary. Without these speedy and forceful actions, last October's panic would likely have continued to intensify, more major financial firms would have failed, and the entire global financial system would have been at serious risk."
--Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke, read more here
The Washington State Economic Recovery Agenda:
This past session, the Legislature took decisive action to create jobs and extend unemployment benefits to struggling families. These actions have helped restart the economy and stop runaway unemployment.
--Boosting unemployment benefits (HB 1906)
--50,000 jobs created by the Transportation Budget (SB 5352)
--30,000 jobs created by the Capital Budget (HB 1216)
--10,000 long-term jobs created by the Evergreen Jobs Act (HB 2227)
--3,500 jobs created by the Transportation Stimulus Bill (HB 1978)
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Strong Voting Record
Posted Jul 22 at 5 PM
Once again, I received strong marks for my voting record, this time from the Washington State Labor Council.
I am proud to say that I received the second-highest rating on my voting record. This brings my lifetime labor voting record to 94%, which in my school career was an A!
Every year, the Labor Council prepares priorities that represent the interests of Washington's working families. They rate legislators on their support for this agenda.
The working families of our community can count on having a voice in Olympia that speaks out for them. Whether its the rights of injured workers, the health care needs of our kids, or the right to organize, I will always be there for you.
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Business Champion (Again!)
Posted Jun 04 at 6 PM
I am honored to have been recognized as a Business Champion for the second year in a row by the Everett Area, South Snohomish and Monroe Chambers of Commerce! As someone that helped start a small business, I know how tough it is to navigate the rules and regulations.
As someone that lost that same business in this economic collapse, I know the pain that comes from watching your life's work crumbling in front of you.
I look forward to working with small businesses throughout our community to get the economy restarted, and get people back to work. Thanks again for the honor!
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Fighting for students and families
Posted Apr 23 at 4 AM
Today, I was proud to lead the fight against an excessive and ill-conceived plan to raise tuition on our state's college students by nearly 30%. This reckless policy will cost Washington's students and families nearly $2,000 by the end of 2011.
As the youngest member of the Legislature, I rallied my colleagues and ensured that the bill passed with the minimum votes necessary to pass the House, 50-47. While it was a defeat for students, it was a victory for accountability and transparency.
Thanks to key amendments, our state's higher education institutions will have to open their books and be more accountable to our Legislature. As Washington's students pay more, it will no longer be acceptable for administrators to collect larger and larger salaries, while producing little value for our students.
I wish the outcome were different, but in the weeks and months to come, I will continue to stand up for the next generation of leaders in our state. This is not the change we hoped for, and it is not the progressive leadership we demand.
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Virtual Town Hall
Posted Apr 05 at 5 AM
Should the Legislature raise taxes? Should we fund education or health care? What are your priorities for our state budget?
I will be asking these questions and more this Tuesday, April 7th, during a virtual Town Hall on taxes and the budget. If you live in the 21st District and have a landline, you should receive a call at 6:00pm. The Town Hall will take place over the phone and it will last one hour.
If you don't have a landline, or you don't receive our call, you can call in and participate. Visit this link for more information!
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Now Showing: Inside Olympia
Posted Mar 14 at 2 AM
Marko appeared on this week's episode of "Inside Olympia" to talk about the budget and other big issues in the Legislature.
The show appears on TVW and is hosted by Austin Jenkins of NPR. House Minority Floor Leader Doug Ericksen (R-Ferndale) also appeared to give a Republican perspective on the issues.
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Sign up for text message updates!
Posted Feb 22 at 6 PM
I have just set up a new text messaging campaign to keep you up to date on all my campaign events for the 2010 election cycle!
This list will be used to notify you of fundraisers, kickoffs, campaign events, and most importantly--when and how to VOTE!
You will receive on average one text message per month, so don't worry about text spamming...
Group text messaging by Tatango.
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Response to Boeing Layoff Announcement
Posted Jan 09 at 4 PM
"The layoffs announced by today by Boeing will affect our entire state, but they will have a particularly detrimental effect on our community, which is home to many aerospace-industry employees. These layoffs underscore the need for the legislature to begin work immediately next week on a plan to stimulate the economy and provide assistance for those who lose their jobs. I, for one, am ready to roll up my sleeves and tackle these difficult issues.”
Rep. Marko Liias, January 9, 2009
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Paine Field Town Hall
Posted Jan 05 at 2 AM
I will be cohosting a Town Hall meeting this Thursday, January 8th from 6-8pm at the new Mukilteo City Hall.
The meeting is being cohosted by Senator Paull Shin and Rep. Mary Helen Roberts.
We will be discussing the potential for expansion of commercial air service at Paine Field and how citizens can get involved and make your opinion heard.
As I have said previously, I am firmly opposed to expansion of air service at Paine Field. This Town Hall will be an opportunity to hear what you think!
Details: Town Hall Meeting on Paine Field
Thursday, January 8, 2009
6:00-8:00pm
Mukilteo City Hall, 11930 Cyrus Way, Mukilteo, WA
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Fundraising Freeze in Effect
Posted Dec 13 at 4 PM
As of 11:59pm on Friday, December 12, 2008, Liias for Legislature can no longer solicit or accept contributions. State law prohibits contributions during the legislative session and in the thirty days prior to the start of the session.
Any contributions that do not meet this timeline will be returned with our sincere thanks.
Thank you all for your support and generosity to the campaign, we could not have achieved such strong results in November without you!
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Contacting me during the legislative session
Posted Nov 14 at 3 AM
The 2009 legislative session will convene in January and last for 105 days. During this time, I will be spending most of the week in Olympia, and it is best to contact me through my legislative office.
I appreciate your feedback on the important decisions we will make this year, and I need to hear your thoughts on the issues that are important to our state.Contact information in Olympia
Legislative Aide: Paige DeChambeau
Office telephone: (360) 786-7972
Email: liias.marko@leg.wa.govVisiting Olympia?
If you are planning a visit to the State Capitol, let me know! There are tours available, and I always appreciate a chance to see friends. Our schedule is very hectic during the legislative session, so it helps to call a few days in advance to let me know you will be in the area.
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Comcast Newsmakers Interview
Posted Nov 06 at 8 PM
Marko was interviewed today for a Comcast Newsmakers segment that will be included on Comcast channels later this month.
Tony Ventrella asked Marko about career and technical education and other subjects during the short interview at Redmond City Hall.
Click below to view the video via YouTube.
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Marko leads with 66%
Posted Nov 05 at 6 PM
The initial results are in, and Marko has been elected! He is currently leading with nearly 20,000 votes and 66%. A big THANK YOU to all our volunteers and supporters.
Marko says a special thanks to campaign manager Robert Knoll!
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Mukilteo Beacon endorses Marko
Posted Oct 30 at 2 AM
Marko's hometown paper has endorsed him for the Legislature! The Mukilteo Beacon announced its support on Wednesday. The endorsement focused on Marko's background on the Mukilteo City Council and his record in one short session.
The Mukilteo Beacon is the fourth newspaper to endorse Marko Liias, continuing the unanimous support of editorial boards in this race.
Here is an excerpt:
"In his first year in Olympia, Liias worked hard to prove his worth, shepherding three bills to passage. The most important, perhaps, was creation of a $10 million emergency fund to save low cost housing – such as mobile home parks and apartments – in danger of being lost to new development... Residents of the 21st District deserve a representative who cares. We support Marko Liias."
To read the full endorsement, click here.
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Enterprise endorses Marko
Posted Oct 25 at 2 AM
The Enterprise newspapers have endorsed Marko Liias for state representative! The editorial board's endorsement is the third in a string of support from every newspaper to make a recommendation in the race.
Here is an excerpt:
"Liias was appointed to the Legislature in January to fill out the remainder of Rep. Brian Sullivan's term. He's worked hard in Olympia on affordable housing, education and business and technology. He deserves a chance at a full term to show voters what he can do, and receives our full backing."
To read the full endorsement, click here.
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Seattle Times Endorses Marko
Posted Oct 14 at 3 AM
The Seattle Times has become the second major newspaper to endorse Marko in his race for the Legislature.
Click here to read the full set of endorsements.
"Rep. Marko Liias seeks election to the Position 2 House seat he was appointed to last January when four-term state representative Brian Sullivan was elected to the Snohomish County Council. Democrat Liias was elected to the Mukilteo City Council in 2005, and he takes that solid local experience to Olympia."
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Marko featured on Q13 News
Posted Oct 10 at 3 AM
Our race is attracting some local media attention as Election Day nears!
This story in the Edmonds Enterprise led to a full story on Q13 news at 10pm on Thursday. Click here to read the Q13 story.
Marko did a great job talking about the issues in our district, and why a younger voice in the Legislature is an asset for our community.
We still need your help taking that message to the last few voters though, so consider sending a final donation to support our campaign!
Click here to contribute online.
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Everett Herald endorses Marko!
Posted Sep 24 at 4 AM
The Everett Herald has officially endorsed Marko for election this fall!
Below are excerpts from the endorsement, or you can click here to read the full endorsement!
"Liias has political experience to complement his clear thinking and good ideas.
He's on the House Education Committee, where he'll champion high standards and accountability, but also prudent changes to the WASL ...
He's also a strong proponent of bringing a technology-oriented four-year public university campus to Everett.
We think Liias has the intelligence, commitment and self-confidence to become an outstanding lawmaker."
(emphasis added)
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The "Chief" Endorsement
Posted Sep 18 at 3 AM
I am so pleased to announce that the Snohomish County Fire Chiefs Association has endorsed my campaign!
Earlier this week, I shared the support we have received from mayors in our area, now its the CEOs of our vital public safety agencies--our fire chiefs.
As a city councilman, I helped Mukilteo hire a new fire chief, and I saw first hand what a big job our fire chiefs take on every day.
In the email from the Association, they cited my support for Washington's firefighters. Ever since I got involved in our local EMS campaign, I have been a strong advocate for all of our first responders.
When we are in trouble, they come to our aid, when we leave the building, they are running into it. Standing up for these everyday heroes is a privilege, and I am honored to have their support.
To see all of my endorsements, click here.
To add your name to the list, click here!
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Eight Mayors Agree
Posted Sep 15 at 4 AM
We have heard a lot about mayors lately, especially small town mayors. That is why I am so proud to have the support of eight mayors right here in our area.
Mayors are the CEOs our cities, and they know good leadership when they see it. That is why they have joined our campaign.
Three of these mayors have signed the Mayors' Climate Protection Agreement, which is a local commitment to take action on global warming. I am proud to have environmental leaders like Edmonds Mayor Gary Haakenson, Everett Mayor Ray Stephanson, and Lynnwood Mayor Don Gough on my team.
I am also pleased to note that mayors from every city in the 21st District have endorsed my campaign. These leaders from every corner of our community know that I am advocate and a partner for every family in our district.
For all the national attention that has been given to mayors lately, I am proud to have the support of eight superb mayors!
List of Mayors:
Bothell Mayor Mark Lamb
Brier Mayor Bob Colinas
Edmonds Mayor Gary Haakenson
Everett Mayor Ray Stephanson
Lynnwood Mayor Don Gough
Mountlake Terrace Mayor Jerry Smith
Mukilteo Mayor Pro Tem Randy Lord
Shoreline Mayor Cindy Ryu -
Statewide leadership
Posted Sep 04 at 3 AM
The state's new consumer protection website went live this week, and already it is receiving statewide news coverage.
I was pleased to sponsor the bill that created the new resource, and I am so pleased that consumers across the state will now benefit from the resources that exist.
Links:
Click here to watch a TV story from KNDU in the Tri-Cities.
Click here to visit the consumer protection site.
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Strong Job Growth
Posted Sep 01 at 7 PM
Mukilteo and Lynnwood are leading the state in job creation, according to a new report. Strong growth in the manufacturing sector has helped create nearly 3,000 new jobs in the two cities according to the Puget Sound Regional Council.
The growth from 2006-2007 places the cities in the top 10 communities across the state in terms of job creation. A strong and vibrant aerospace industry has reinforced the growth in manufacturing jobs.
Our strategy is working, by investing in small aerospace companies, like we did this past session, we are creating family-wage jobs and keeping the economy strong.
I was proud to be the House sponsor of the bill to extend the Boeing tax incentive package to our smallest aerospace companies, and I was pleased that the bill made it to the governor and was signed into law.
In the coming session, I will continue to be a strong advocate for more good, family-wage jobs in our community. Though our national economic picture is uncertain, I am hopeful that we can make progress here at home. -
Empowering Consumers
Posted Aug 28 at 7 PM
Starting today, Washington's consumers have one more tool in their arsenal: information. A new one-stop consumer protection website went live this morning and consumers are already benefiting.
The website covers several major topic areas including children, education, and product safety. Included within the topics are hundreds of links to existing resources for consumers.
“The bottom line is that we are already paying for these services, but people do not always know where to turn for help. This website will empower people to protect themselves and their families,” said Rep. Marko Liias.
The website is the product of a bill introduced by Rep. Liias, which was signed into law by the Governor in April. As a new representative, Rep. Liias was instrumental is passing legislation directing state government to create the new resource for consumers.
The full web address for the site is: http://access.wa.gov/consumer
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Huge Primary Victory
Posted Aug 20 at 1 PM
The first results are in, and we exceeded all expectations! Marko Liias received 61.59% of the vote, which is historic for a first time Democrat in this swing district.
Rep. Marko Liias released this brief statement:
"I want to thank the voters of the 21st District for their strong support tonight. We have visited thousands of doors with my positive message, and it is so gratifying to see the results of our work. I look forward to a strong campaign this fall, and the opportunity to get to work as your voice in Olympia."
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New website
Posted Aug 19 at 5 PM
We are in the process of upgrading our website for the General Election campaign, give us feedback on how you like the new format!
