1.11.16

Suggested lead:   The state Legislature began its new session Monday in Olympia, with plenty to do and not much time to do it.  Dan Frizzell has that story.

Wrap (:55 total):  

CHOPP:  "The House of Representatives will please come to order for the 2016 regular session of the 64th Legislature." [:06]. 

SFX:  Gavel, applause

With that, Speaker of the House Frank Chopp kicked off a new legislative session Monday afternoon in Olympia. Democrats and Republicans alike say the top job in the session will be taking the next big step toward solving the state’s k-12 funding shortfall.  Also on the agenda is continuing to improve the state’s mental health system, beefing up the state’s ability to meet emergencies like last year’s wildfires, and addressing a problem that goes largely unseen:  the plight of thousands of homeless children.  Chopp admits this is a full plate for a short session, but every lawmaker we spoke with is committed to wrapping up and adjourning on time for a change.  “On time” this year means banging that final gavel no later than March 8.  In Olympia, I’m Dan Frizzell.