Reps. Brandon Vick, Paul Harris each take oath of office from home

2021 Legislative session began Monday in Olympia

State Rep. Brandon Vick (18th District), officially took the oath, Friday, to begin serving his fifth term in the Washington State House of Representatives. Vick (R-Vancouver) was sworn in remotely via Zoom, along with 36 other legislators, by Washington State Supreme Court Justice Debra Stephens.

Reps. Brandon Vick (18th District) and Paul Harris (17th District) each took an oath of office from their homes Friday.
Reps. Brandon Vick (18th District) and Paul Harris (17th District) each took an oath of office from their homes Friday.

“I’m honored to continue representing the people and businesses of the 18th District,” said Vick, who was reelected in November. “Although, these are very different circumstances than we’ve ever experienced, I’m still very much looking forward to this session. We have so much to accomplish to help the thousands of people who are still hurting because of the pandemic and subsequent restrictions.”

Rep. Brandon Vick (18th District)
Rep. Brandon Vick (18th District)

Vick will continue to serve as the ranking member of the Consumer Protection and Business Committee this session. He will also serve on the Commerce and Gaming and Finance committees.

“We’re facing some very tough issues in our state, right now,” added Vick. “We have to work together to help Main Street’ small businesses and citizens who are struggling through no fault of their own because of the governor’s shutdowns and restrictions. Kids need to get back to school and small businesses need to reopen. It’s time to get all of Washington safely back to work again.”

Rep. Paul Harris returns to Olympia

Rep. Paul Harris officially took the oath of office, Friday, to begin serving his sixth term as a member of the state House of Representatives from the 17th District. Harris (R-Vancouver), was sworn in by Washington State Supreme Court Justice Debra Stephens in his home via Zoom.

Rep. Paul Harris (17th District)
Rep. Paul Harris (17th District)

“I never imagined I would take the oath of office under these circumstances,” said Harris, who was reelected in November. “These are unprecedented times, but I’m looking forward to conducting the business of Washington in a professional and honorable manner, during this upcoming session.”

Harris will continue in his role as the chair of the House Republican Caucus. He will also serve on four committees: Appropriations, Healthcare and Wellness, Labor and Workplace Standards, and Rules.

“There are so many issues we need to work on this session,” added Harris. “So many individuals and families are hurting, and we need to provide real solutions. It will not be easy, with everyone working remotely, but we have to come together as lawmakers to truly find the best way to move forward.”

The 2021 legislative session began Monday and is scheduled to last 105 consecutive days.

Information provided by Washington State House Republicans, Houserepublicans.wa.gov