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 “The Impact” – June 28th, 2017: Operating budget deal; Pretrial release task force

Mike McClanahan profile by Mike McClanahan

This week on “The Impact”:

In the final days before a July 1st deadline state lawmakers announce a breakthrough in the stalemate over the state operating budget. Lawmakers weigh in on the hard fought compromise and its implications for K-12 schools and state services.

“I feel relieved I feel like we’re making a historic investment in education and in mental health that’s really great news for our constituents. I think we could’ve had a better outcome,” – Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon, D-Burien, House Democratic Caucus.

“Let us hope that the public says they finally got funding for basic ed behind them and now have more time to focus on other issues for the citizens of this state,”-  Sen. Mark Schoesler, R-Ritzville, Senate Majority Leader, Majority Coalition Caucus.

Later a judge weighs in on the new task force set up to study pretrial release in Washington State.  From the role of bail money to assessing risk, the group is rethinking the process for defendants.

“We’re asked to look into our crystal ball every day and figure out what risk does this person have of committing a future act of violence,” – Judge Sean O’Donnell, President Superior Court Judges’ Association, King County Superior Court.  “If they’re poor and they don’t have the financial resources they don’t have to be held longer than they otherwise would be.”

We also highlight efforts to fight summer wildfires ravaging thousands of acres in Eastern Washington.

Click here to watch “The Impact”: June 28th, 2017