Involvement in the legislative process has been an important aspect of Grange activity since the organization’s inception in 1867. Our primary legislative objective is to represent the views of rural residents and the agriculture community. Our views become Grange policy from the grass roots, through a “bottom up” democratic process. Each year our policies are summarized and published in the Legislative Handbook, which guides our work in the Legislature. We encourage all Grangers to get involved and make their voices heard.
* We oppose the removal of any dam in the Columbia/Snake River system. These dams benefit the citizens of Washington by producing power, providing transportation, providing irrigation for food production, preventing flooding, and providing recreational opportunities.
* We support seasonal flexibility for overtime pay of agricultural workers.
* Washington’s farmers and ranchers use best management practices to protect clean water and aquatic life. Multiple state and federal agencies work with growers to protect riparian habitat. We oppose any new riparian buffers that could result in removing land from agriculture production.
* To spur economic development and virtual education opportunities, we support expansion of broadband capabilities in rural areas of the state.
* We believe a capital gains tax is a form of income tax as defined by the Internal Revenue Service. The Washington State Constitution prohibits an income tax, therefore we oppose a capital gains tax.
* We oppose a per mile tax on hydrocarbon burning motor vehicles until such time that a comprehensive plan is put in place that would be equitable for all areas of the state, and addresses privacy issues.
2020 Washington State Grange Leg Day Attendees
Unlike all other fraternal groups, involvement in the legislative process has been an important aspect of Grange activity since the organization's inception in 1867. As a community-based organization, the Grange is a natural arena for discussion of local and national issues. Grangers assembled for their subordinate and Pomona meetings debate matters of common concern. Topics range from the need for a local traffic signal to school levies; from nuclear disarmament to hunger relief in Third World nations; from public power to state and national social programs.
After debate, the Grange members draft and vote on a resolution concerning the issue. If the problem is a local one, the Grange officers and legislative committee members often pursue solution options such as visiting local government officials, writing letters or testifying at hearings.
Resolutions covering issues of statewide or national concern are forwarded from the subordinate Grange to the State Grange. Eventually, the resolution is brought to the delegates assembled for the State Grange convention, usually held during the third week in June. Committees discuss it and delegates debate it. When adopted, it becomes State Grange policy.
The resolutions passed at the State Grange convention that concern national matters are referred to the National Grange convention for consideration. Resolutions adopted there become National Grange policy.
In Washington state, representatives of the Grange are present in Olympia during legislative sessions to explain the Grange policy as it relates to bills under consideration. The Grange also prepares and presents testimony to various commissions and at special hearings throughout the year.