March 8th 2026
Continued from home page.
Washington courts have long recognized that public pensions are contractual obligations protected by both the United States Constitution and the Washington State Constitution. Legislative actions that impair those obligations – including diversion of surplus assets or weakening fiduciary protections – raise serious constitutional concerns under:
• Article I, Section 10 of the United States Constitution – Contracts Clause
• Article I, Section 23 of the Washington State Constitution
• Washington’s vested-rights doctrine governing public pension systems
• Federal tax-qualification standards requiring retirement trust assets be maintained solely for the exclusive benefit of members and beneficiaries
Reporters have been contacting the Coalition due to growing public concern about proposed legislative actions that could impact the LEOFF Plan 1 retirement fund. I have been speaking directly with reporters and providing factual, research-based information to ensure accurate public understanding. My goal in those conversations is to clarify the constitutional, fiduciary, and member-impact issues involved, and to ensure that coverage reflects the legal realities surrounding the protection of earned pension benefits.
Legislative and Advocacy Responsibilities
My responsibilities on behalf of the Coalition include:
• Leading legislative outreach efforts through policy advocacy and lobbying activities
• Participating in stakeholder and committee meetings
• Maintaining consistent written and direct communication with state legislators
• Researching and preparing accurate, member-focused legal and fiduciary information
• Ensuring decision-makers understand the legal, constitutional, fiduciary, and human impact of proposed legislation
Member Support Responsibilities
In addition to legislative advocacy, I provide direct support to LEOFF 1 members, retirees, beneficiaries, and their families by:
• Assisting with questions and concerns related to medical benefits
• Helping members navigate their local Disability Boards
• Supporting members through complex administrative processes
• Serving as the primary point of contact for phone calls and correspondence
• Handling sensitive member information professionally and respectfully
Organizational Communications
I also oversee Coalition communications by:
• Managing and updating the Coalition’s website
• Providing timely legislative updates and educational materials
• Ensuring important notices are accessible to members and the public