Statement from Rep. Peter Abbarno on House Resolution 4607

On Friday, Jan. 24, Washington State House Democrats approved House Resolution 4607, repealing a 132-year-old rule established in 1893 that ensured free and open debate on the House Floor.

With a 54-33 vote, Democrats reduced the two-thirds supermajority threshold required to end debate and proceed to a vote, replacing it with a simple majority. This change allows the majority to curtail debate and suppress minority voices.

Rep. Peter Abbarno, R-Centralia, issued the following statement on these actions:

“I wholeheartedly opposed the passage of a new unprecedented permanent House Rule that ends debate by a simple majority. The rule providing for open and fair debate has been a cornerstone of the House of Representatives for over 132 years. It has thrived through divisive times, war, economic depression, pandemic, and even previous political supermajorities.

“Since the 1800s, previous legislative majorities have valued the importance of transparency, accountability, and protecting our citizens from abuses of power. A party-line vote threw out that essential rule this year.

“As an elected representative of a diverse district, I am tasked to carry the voices and stories of my community at the Capitol. Despite the majority’s partisan gamesmanship, I vow to continue sharing those values, voices, and stories.”

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Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov