Legislative Sendoff Set for December 1
The Shelton-Mason County Chamber, North Mason Chamber, and Economic Development Council of Mason County will host a Legislative Sendoff on Monday, December 1 at Alderbrook Resort & Spa. This annual event brings together business leaders, nonprofit partners, local governments, and residents for a timely conversation with the 35th District delegation before lawmakers return to Olympia.
The program will feature Senator Drew MacEwen (R-Shelton), Representative Dan Griffey (R-Allyn), and Representative Travis Couture (R-Allyn). Each will discuss anticipated priorities, budget considerations, and policy proposals likely to surface during the 2026 session. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how legislative decisions may influence transportation, housing, behavioral health, taxation, workforce development, and other topics that matter to Mason County.
The event will begin at 8:00a with a breakfast by Alderbrook Resort & Spa. Pre-registration is required and pricing is dependent upon Chamber & EDC membership/tier. Chamber members registration is $25 per person. (Shelton-Mason County Chamber members, please note that registration is not included at any level of membership.) Prospects and community members may attend at the full rate of $35 per person. Reservations are required.
The Sendoff offers a valuable opportunity to hear directly from elected officials and gain insight into the issues expected to shape the upcoming session. It is one of the few occasions each year when constituents can speak with all three state lawmakers in a single setting and share concerns related to the local economy and quality of life.
Washington State operates on a two-year budget cycle, with even-numbered years reserved for a 60-day short session. Lawmakers do not write a new biennial budget during this period, but they do pass supplemental operating, transportation, and capital budgets to adjust for updated forecasts and emerging needs. Short sessions move quickly and often focus on refining existing policy, advancing bills carried over from the previous year, and responding to timely issues. Even modest policy updates can affect permitting, workforce availability, and the cost of doing business. The 2026 session begins January 12, with pre-filed bills opening this year on December 1.
To strengthen Mason County’s voice, the Chambers and Mason EDC will again present a coordinated set of legislative priorities to the delegation. This unified approach highlights key project and policy needs identified by local employers and ensures lawmakers receive clear, consistent guidance.
The Chamber encourages community members to stay engaged throughout the session by attending meetings, testifying, submitting comments, and reaching out to legislators directly. Active participation helps ensure Mason County’s perspectives are represented in Olympia.
To learn more about the Chamber’s positions on various topics, read the Chamber’s public policy guidelines. You may also call the Chamber at (360) 426-2021 or reach out to the Government Affairs Committee.
The Chambers and EDC collectively serve as the voice of the business community and we make it a point to be at the heart of important issues like workforce development, quality of life, and civic engagement. That said, we are not political action committees and do not endorse candidates; we are independent organizations led by the private sector. The Chambers and EDC provide nonpartisan information and host community education and outreach opportunities, especially those that affect policy.
