Senate adopts resolutions honoring departing Senators Rebecca Saldanha and Judy Warnick

The Washington State Senate adopted two separate resolutions on March 11 honoring long-serving members who are leaving the chamber.

Senate Resolution 8704 recognized Senator Rebecca Saldanha for a decade of service representing the 37th Legislative District and cited her leadership on environmental justice, the Washington Voting Rights Act and worker-protection measures. Colleagues from across the chamber offered tributes describing her as an organizer and a voice for marginalized communities. The resolution was adopted by voice vote and Senator Saldanha rose for a point of personal privilege to thank colleagues and reflect on the values that brought her to public service: "Our democracy is only as strong and only as powerful as the least among us," she said, adding thanks to her family and community.

Senate Resolution 8702 honored Senator Judy Warnick for nearly two decades of legislative service, citing leadership on agriculture, water, rural economic development, and years of committee work. Numerous senators offered stories and commendations about her mentorship, bipartisan cooperation and commitment to children and families. Senator Warnick accepted the resolution with brief personal remarks about family and returning to life on her farm.

Both resolutions were adopted by the Senate during the floor session.