SEATTLE—Governor-elect Bob Ferguson announced on Tuesday that State Senator and former Snohomish County Sheriff John Lovick (D-Mill Creek) will chair his transition committee focused on improving public safety and increasing the number of well-trained law enforcement in Washington.
“Our public safety challenges, including a statewide fentanyl epidemic, require immediate action,” said Ferguson. “Washington ranks last in the nation for law enforcement per capita. That’s unacceptable – it will change while I am Governor.”
State Senator John Lovick is the former Snohomish County Sheriff and served in the Washington State Patrol for decades. The subcommittee will include a diverse group of stakeholders and will focus on strategies to improve safety, including:
- A $100 million grant program for local governments to hire more well-trained police officers;
- Increasing resources within the Department of Corrections to pursue every individual who absconds from their court supervision responsibilities; and
- Develop and implement a crisis response plan to combat the fentanyl epidemic.
“I can’t think of a better focus for the next administration than improving public safety and I trust Governor-elect Ferguson on these tough issues,” said Lovick. “It is critical that people not only are safe but feel safe – in their homes, neighborhoods, and schools.”
The subcommittee will include members of Ferguson’s bipartisan, 55-member Transition Team and other Washingtonians appointed by Lovick.
Ferguson’s Transition Team will establish a strategic plan to help Ferguson implement his priorities for the first 100 days of his new administration.
About Governor-Elect Bob Ferguson
Bob Ferguson has dedicated his career to serving the people. He is completing his third term as Washington State’s Attorney General. He is committed to improving government and building a stronger future by focusing on key issues such as public safety, health care costs and housing affordability, child care, education, and economic growth.
SOURCE: Office of Governor-elect Bob Ferguson
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
