In a united act of protest, every Republican member of the House Appropriations Committee walked out of Wednesday’s hearing following the majority party’s callous passage of Senate Bill 5393 – a measure that would force the closure of Rainier School, a critical care facility for Washingtonians with severe intellectual and developmental disabilities.
“We didn’t come into this meeting planning to walk out – but there comes a moment when you must draw the line,” said Rep. Travis Couture, R-Allyn, the ranking Republican on the committee. “This bill is one of the most disgusting, cold-hearted proposals I’ve seen in my time in office. It puts lives on the line – plain and simple.”
Rainier School has long served as a lifeline for individuals with profound needs that simply cannot be met by the current community-based system. Rainier has become a safe haven for residents and peace of mind for their families – families who have testified, pleaded, and even begged lawmakers not to turn their loved ones out.
But their voices fell on deaf ears.
“We came armed with amendments – real, thoughtful, common-sense proposals that would have protected these residents. Democrats shot down every single one,” said Couture. “They ignored emotional testimony from parents and lawmakers with personal connections to these residents. Then they voted to barrel forward with this cruel legislation like none of it mattered. So we walked out. We will not give cover to this shameful decision.”
The legislation suggests relocating residents to community alternatives but such facilities do not have the capacity and often do not provide the level of care needed. This proposal lacks a clear plan to ensure these residents do not end up in hospitals, jails, or on the streets.
This fight isn’t over. Both Senate Bill 5393 and its companion, House Bill 1472, can still be brought to the House floor. If they are, Republicans are prepared for a full-scale battle.
“There are countless ways to find savings in the budget – this is not it,” said Couture. “Washington doesn’t balance its books on the backs of its most vulnerable. Not on our watch. If this bill hits the floor, we’ll fight it with everything we’ve got.” House Republicans are calling on every legislator – regardless of party – to listen to the families. Listen to the staff. Listen to the truth. Do the right thing.