Rep. Norma Smith retiring from state legislature

Rep. Norma Smith announced from the House floor in Olympia March 5 that she will not run for re-election in November. The 10th District state representative explained how she is returning to a life-long calling that has defined both her personal and professional paths over the years.

“Serving the people of the 10th District has been my greatest professional honor and privilege. They put their trust in me and I will be forever grateful. I have poured everything I have into our communities and sound legislation, and I feel like we have accomplished so much together,” said Smith, R-Clinton. “I now look forward to the next season of life and the new doors of opportunity opening to once again focus on teaching and mentoring. I am looking forward to renewing this life-long vision of investing in the hearts, minds and faith journey of another generation.”

Smith is most proud of two legislative accomplishments: the 2019 capital budget “to meet the desperate needs in our state to come alongside those families and individuals struggling with behavior and mental health issues, and provide services in our communities, to restore hope.” The legislature passed a record $308.1 million in funding for mental and behavioral health facilities:

Policy wise, Smith led legislative efforts to help establish JCDREAM – The Joint Center for Deployment and Research in Earth Abundant Materials. The state now has “the organizational framework to stimulate innovation in the use of earth-abundant materials within an established and emerging industrial sector.”

She leaves without securing legislation guaranteeing data privacy for individuals. Because Washington is home to giant big data firms, those corporations’ lobbyists apply pressure at the legislature to allow data mining. Smith is insistent that “consumers organize in a more formal way to leverage their concerns and have a meaningful voice to protect our civil liberties.”

The biggest challenges facing the state? Recession is possible, she notes.

She remains concerned about “the ongoing consequences of addictions and the behavioral and mental health crisis, and our ability to provide an adequate safety net.” And “the continued assault on our community cohesion and values that unite us” has to be halted.

“Essential to our future is listening and seeing one another through the lens of human dignity – even when we disagree.

Sadly, there is a crisis fueled – in part – by social media and the loss of a commitment to civility.

In my faith journey, Jesus taught us the two greatest commands: Love God and love your neighbor as yourself.

So very simple, so very hard at times, and so very essential,” Smith wrote.

Fellow District 10 Representative Dave Paul, D-Oak Harbor, issued a statement of congratulations on a dedicated career of public service.

“It has been an honor to work with Rep. Norma Smith. She graciously welcomed me to the House last year,” said Paul. “It has been a privilege to collaborate with Rep. Smith on a host of issues for the 10th Legislative District, including $1 million in state historic preservation grants for the Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve and protecting Washington State Ferry services.”

“Rep. Smith should be commended for the tremendous leadership she has brought to the Legislature in the areas of mental health and data privacy,” continued Paul. “She is well respected on both sides of the aisle for her hard-work, grace, and civility. I will personally miss her friendship and counsel on the House Floor.”

Smith will complete her two-year term, which ends in January 2021.

First appointed state representative in January 2008, Smith went on to win her race that November. Prior to serving in the Washington State House of Representatives, she served on the South Whidbey School Board and was Special Assistant to U.S. Congressman Jack Metcalf.

Smith is the ranking Republican on the House Innovation, Technology and Economic Development Committee, and the assistant ranking Republican on the House Capital Budget Committee. She also serves on the House State Government and Tribal Relations Committee.

The 2020 legislative session ended on schedule March 12.

By Cameron Sheppard, WNPA News Service, and Ken Stern