Reps. Hunter Abell and Andrew Engell join KOMW Radio to discuss the third week of the 2026 legislative session. Topics include their bills, taxes proposed by Democrats, and protecting the initiative process

January 26, 2026

During a recent appearance on KOMW’s Live From Olympia, Hunter Abell, Andrew Engell, and Shelly Short discussed key legislative priorities affecting North Central and Northeast Washington.

Abell highlighted the Legislative Page Program and shared the experience of hosting a student page from Tonasket. He also discussed his “family burial ground” bill, which would allow families to designate small portions of private property for burial, preserving rural traditions and family heritage. Abell further addressed concerns about proposed income and payroll taxes and emphasized the importance of protecting the constitutional initiative process.

Engell provided updates on several health care and workforce bills, including legislation to help rural hospitals continue operating emergency departments and a proposal to limit non-emergency charity care to Washington residents. He also discussed efforts to reduce regulatory burdens on small businesses and shared concerns about the financial challenges facing rural hospitals.

Short focused on restoring wildfire prevention and suppression funding, protecting girls’ sports through a voter initiative, and improving wildlife management. She also addressed rising home insurance costs and criticized proposals that could restrict citizen initiatives.

All three lawmakers discussed the fast pace of the 60-day legislative session and encouraged constituents to stay engaged in the legislative process.