December News and Updates
Remote Session?
The first vote I took during the 2021 session as your new 20th District state representative was to preserve transparency in government and access for you, my constituents, by holding that session safely in person.

That vote was in-person and safely cast with no objections from either side of the aisle.

As we know, the Democratic majority rejected that openness and approved rules that set up session operations remotely, including all committee meetings and all floor voting, with a few exceptions. Gov. Inslee had also ordered chain-link fences around the Capitol, with the National Guard keeping the public out. I fear the same again this year.

I believe these overbroad powers and restrictions are a disservice to the People of Washington and will again fight to provide as much transparency and accountability as possible.
Lewis County Special Olympics Polar Plunge
There are a lot of charitable organizations deserving of our support and attention on during the holiday season. I would like to highlight the Special Olympics Washington athletes and their families who have been significantly impacted by COVID and restrictions.

Many athletes and their families rely and thrive on sports and routine for physical and emotional happiness and health. Further, many athletes and families have been financially impacted by unemployment, mandates, restrictions, and rising costs.

On #GivingTuesday2021, please consider donating and supporting the Lewis County Special Olympics Polar Plunge and our team raising money and attention to our amazing Special Olympics athletes and the Lewis County Special Olympics organization. 
Repeal Long-Term Care Payroll Tax
I share your concerns about the Democrats' new long-term care insurance program and payroll tax. I will be introducing legislation to repeal the long-term care payroll tax in December when the prefiling window begins.

The "fixes" address concerns but don't create a viable program. We need to hit the reset button and work on REAL solutions.
Turkey Trotting
My law firm Althauser Rayan Abbarno recently joined Thorbeckes Athletic Performance and hosted the annual Turkey Trot that raised money for the Boys and Girls Club of Lewis County and Chehalis Foundation.

“For me, it’s something I always look forward to, whether it was rain or shine or snow. It was something we could always do together as a family,” Abbarno said. “And to give back to the community and the nonprofits, it just means a lot.”
Fundraising FREEZE: December 10th
The legislative fundraising freeze begins next Friday, December 10th. Consider supporting a great group of newly elected Washington State House Republicans. Help us build a majority.

We need to re-elect all of my colleagues and more to change the course of our state, end the monopolization of our government, and deliver accountability and transparency back to the people. You can help with a donation before Friday, December 10th.
Filling in for the "Big Guy" on Polar Express
When Santa Claus needs help you answer the call or get placed on the naughty list. There are a lot of great local holiday traditions and the Chehalis Centralia Railroad & Museum and Chehalis Steam Train Polar Express, and Santa Train are some of the best. There are fun trips all year.
I love being part of the magic and memories being created in our community. I've been lucky to fill in for the "big guy" for the past 4 years and it keeps getting better. Learn more at https://steamtrainride.com/
Revenue is Strong:
Reduce the Burden on Working Families and Small Businesses
November's revenue forecast adopted Nov. 19 by the Economic and Revenue Forecast Council shows an increase of incoming revenues by $898 million for 2021-23 and $965 million for 2023-25.

That's a whopping $1.9 billion of your tax money expected to be collected by the state over the next four years. By all accounts, the state's revenue picture is looking very good. I wish we could say the same thing for the average citizen in Washington. The State Legislature should, and I will continue to advocate for, relieving working families and small businesses of the overwhelming and regressive tax burden created by 30 years of Democrat governors and legislative majorities.
Staying Connected
I want to first start by wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and happy holidays! One of the great foundations of our community is your generosity and volunteer spirit. Many times in our community's history, we have seen businesses and organizations step-up and step forward to help struggling community members through a difficult time.

In that same spirit, I ask that you and others in our community make your voices heard during the 2022 legislative session by sharing your ideas, thoughts, and comments with me, legislators from across the state, and the governor. Your voice is important.
Turkey Bingo
Turkey Bingo Raises $3,800 for Twin Cities Rotary; Money Will Be Used for Wheelchair Accessible Ramps
Thank you Twin Cities Rotary Club, Love INC of Lewis County, Chehalis Eagles Aerie 1550, and all the amazing volunteers, participants, and sponsors.. Turkey Bingo is fun and has a tremendous impact on our community. I am proud to support this mission.
Committee to Elect Peter Abbarno
PO Box 94
Centralia, WA 98531
www.ElectPeterAbbarno.com