Cheney Free Press -

OLYMPIA — The state Legislature opened its planned 60-day session Monday, Jan. 10, with legislators saying they want to help strengthen economic well-being, manage COVID-19 risks, provide child care help, support mental health and mitigate the effects of climate change.

One thing both parties agree on: the state appears to have plenty of money, thanks to $1 billion in remaining federal pandemic relief.

Rep. J.T Wilcox, R-Yelm, said he thinks some of the money should be spent improving the state’s transportation system.

“If you care about the rural economy, if you care about the urban...