Helen Sommers: An Oral History

Newsletter
Consumer Protection
and Privacy
Identity theft is the fastest-growing crime in Washington.
These measures will help protect consumers:
• Requiring your consent before your cell-phone
number can be disclosed.
• Prohibiting unauthorized use of information
gathered from the new “enhanced” driver’s
license.
• Restricting “data skimming” – using information
garnered from a new technology called radiofrequency
identification (RFID) chips found in
many household items.
• Creating a consumer web site so all resources
are available in one place.
Creating the “Smart
Homeownership Choices
Program”
Foreclosure rates have been increasing as families
commit to mortgages beyond their financial means.
In recognition of the recent reports of Washington
families facing foreclosure, the Housing Commission
will provide advice and assistance to those homeowners,
as well as to those contemplating home purchases
beyond their financial capacity.
Protecting
Washington’s
environment
pg. 237
2008 SESSION REpORt
Oil spill prevention
Funding was continued for the Neah Bay Rescue Tug to prevent oil spills
from tankers in the rough water off our coast.
Climate Change
The forecast for climate change and the impacts on our land and water
raised concerns. The Office of Washington State Climatologist was created within the University of
Washington. The state Department of Ecology will evaluate the possible impacts of climate change
on the potential for drought, floods, and the impacts on
agriculture, forestry, and our coast. The DOE will analyze
the effects on humans, animals, and fish and make recommendations
to mitigate negative impacts.
“Green’’ legislation
New legislation on “urban forestry” calls for an inventory of
urban trees and provides financial incentives for cities that
promote laws to preserve and replant trees.
“My seatmates, Representative
Mary Lou Dickerson and
Senator Jeanne Kohl-Welles
join me on my last day of
legislative session.”