Governor's 2nd Inauguration

In her second inaugural address, Gov. Chris Gregoire told the state Legislature today that together through courage and generosity they must take on a crisis the likes of which their generation has never seen. The governor noted that the unprecedented times gave them the opportunity to reshape Washington’s future through investments that will create 20,000 jobs and through reforms to thrust state government into the 21st century.

In her speech to a joint session of the 2009 session of the 61st Legislature, the governor outlined four goals for the legislative session:

1. Create 20,000 new jobs for working families by rebuilding roads and schools, and creating a green economy for the 21st century;

2. Balance our budget by focusing on basic needs — protection of our children, our schools and colleges, our public safety, our environment and our economy;

3. Reform state government so we can respond to the evolving needs of our state; and

4. Encourage continued generosity among all Washingtonians. 

The governor called on all Washingtonians who are able to donate each month four non-perishable food items, or the cash equivalent, to a food bank, and to volunteer for one hour at a charity or nonprofit organization of their choice.