Evan Smith: Rep. Cindy Ryu reports on the 2011 legislative session

By Evan Smith

ShorelineAreaNews Politics Writer

Rep. Cindy Ryu found some bright spots in a difficult first session in the State Legislature.

Here’s her full report on the session:

“This was as difficult a session as many said it would be, but I am very glad to represent the good people of the 32nd District. I learned a lot from Republicans and Democrats, and especially from the citizens of the 32nd who took the time to call or write.

“It was humbling to pass my first pieces of legislation, and I am happy about the law to prevent mortgage fraud and my legislation to help small businesses.

“While times are tough, we managed to balance the budget and finish our work in a bipartisan way, working together to solve our common problems. There are bright spots: the state's construction budget is building more schools and universities and the transportation budget fixing roads and helping reduce traffic gridlock, including $300,000 for a traffic study of State Route 523, commonly known as North 145th Street.

“I look forward to working on more reforms to build a better Washington state for our families and businesses.“

Ryu won election last year to fill an open seat representing Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Kenmore, Woodway, south Edmonds and the rest of the 32nd Legislative District. She was a member of the Shoreline City Council from 2006 to 2009, leading the Council as mayor in 2008 and 2009.

Ryu is a House Democratic caucus whip and a member of the House Rules Committee, the Transportation Committee, the committee on community development and housing, and the committee on business and financial services.