Washington state now has the highest gas prices in the nation. The average price per gallon of regular, unleaded gasoline is over $4.92 statewide—even higher than California's skyrocketing prices. Pain at the Pump: Washington State's Skyrocketing Gas Prices Washington state now has the highest gas prices in the nation. The average price per gallon of regular, unleaded gasoline is over $4.92 statewide—even higher than California's skyrocketing prices. Why do we have the most expensive gas in the nation? Governor Inslee's newly implemented cap-and-trade programs combined with President Biden's failed energy policies. Governor Inslee claimed the cap-and-trade program would cost "pennies," but folks in Central Washington are now paying an extra 50 cents per gallon because of this new program. This program is the Green New Deal in sheep's clothing, and the radical environmentalists have proved they don't care about the consequences on hardworking Americans, like those in Central Washington, who are struggling to make ends meet. I have been a strong leader for American energy independence in Congress, and introduced the Northwest Energy Security Act, co-sponsored the Protecting America's Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) from China Act, and helped pass H.R.1—the Lower Energy Costs Act to lower the costs of fuel and protect our energy security. I look forward to continuing this important work and remain committed to standing up for Central Washingtonians at the pump. Watch More on Varney & Co. Addressing the Fentanyl Crisis in Central Washington When fentanyl is discussed in Washington State, we often hear about the crisis around Seattle. While fentanyl is ravaging communities on the West side of the mountains, it's also impacting us right here in Central Washington. Over 100,000 people lost their lives to drug overdoses just last year, largely due to the spread of illicit fentanyl, which is more than the number of casualties from the entire Vietnam War. I receive calls and letters from families throughout Washington's 4th Congressional Districts, but the story of Andy Wonacott's family truly stood out. Andy's sons, William and James Wonacott, both died from fentanyl overdoses withing two years of each other. No parent should have to suffer this sort of loss. This past March, I introduced the William and James Wonacott Act, named in honor of the two young men who were taken from this earth far too soon, which will enhance penalties for those who sell, give, or distribute any substance that contains fentanyl. I also invited Andy to join my Central Washington Fentanyl Task Force, and he has quickly become a key member. He has offered a valuable perspective as someone whose life has been forever changed by this crisis, and I look forward to continuing this important work with him and the rest of my task force to tackle this crisis. Watch More in KOMO News Prioritizing Hanford Cleanup in Congress On July 24th, the Hanford Vitrification Plant announced that their waste melter had successfully reached its planned operating temperature of 2,100°F. This is a massive step in the right direction for the cleanup of the Hanford Nuclear Site. This operational temperature test is just the beginning. Over the next few weeks, their team will be adding the first batches of glass beads, called frit, to form the molten pool inside the melter. This is a significant milestone in the Hanford cleanup process. Hanford cleanup remains one of my top priorities in Congress. Last year, I led the entire Washington delegation in a request to President Biden, urging his administration to support an increased budget for the DOE's Office of Environmental Management to ensure the federal government can continue to meet its legal and moral obligation to cleanup operations at Hanford. The people of the Tri-Cities play a crucial role in Central Washington's economy and energy production, and I remain committed to supporting them in Congress. Read More About My Work with Hanford Meeting with Our Nation's Future Farmers This week, I had a great meeting with the National Future Farmers of America (FFA) Officer team where we discussed Farm Bill priorities and the FFA Caucus. As a former member of the FFA, their program holds a special place in my heart and the work they do is unparalleled. FFA teaches important skills like leadership, responsibility, and work ethic, and I am proud to support this organization. These young minds are the future of agriculture in America, and I look forward to continuing our important work. Promoting Responsible Resource Development Last week, my amendment to prohibit funds from being used to finalize the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) proposed "Landscape and Conservation Health" rule was adopted in the Interior and Environment Appropriations. Not only is this proposed rule illegal—it would also have drastic effects on energy prices, food costs, and recreational opportunities. With more than 90% of BLM's 245 million acres located in the western United States, this rule would have an outsized effect on the residents of Central Washington. As Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus, I believe in the multiple-use mandate to produce sustainable yield—not lock up our lands from accessing the bountiful resources and beautiful views our public lands offer. In the midst of record-high energy prices and food costs, the Biden Administration wants to make the problem even worse by proposing a regulation that would hinder resource development—including renewable energy—and ranching on public lands. I have long been an advocate for responsible land usage, but the BLM is confusing conservation for preservation. This amendment ensures that the BLM does not sidestep Congress and allows for more opportunities for America to become energy independent. Read More in the Okanogan Valley Gazette-Tribune 2023 Congressional App Challenge I'm pleased to announce the launch of the annual Central Washington Congressional App Challenge! This competition is open to all middle and high school students who reside in or attend a school in Washington's 4th Congressional District, is a wonderful opportunity for all students from Central Washington to represent our region and demonstrate their ingenuity and creativity. Students may participate individually or in teams of up to four. The Congressional App Challenge is now open and will run through November 1, 2023. The winning apps will be featured in the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., on house.gov, and on the Congressional App Challenge Website. Winning students will be invited to the #HouseofCode reception on Capitol Hill and will be awarded additional prizes, to be announced later. I strongly encourage any student with a STEM background or who is interested in STEM to create an app and show your skills to the country! Visit My Website for More Information Looking for Paid Fall Interns Are you a currently an undergraduate student or recent college graduate interested in learning about the legislative process firsthand in the heart of our nation? If so, I am currently seeking paid congressional interns for the Fall 2023 term. The internships are in-person and will run from September to the end of November. Dates are flexible. Ideal candidates will have a positive attitude, strong work ethic, attention to detail, ability to conduct research, strong writing skills, and be able to work in a fast-paced work environment. District ties will be considered however are not required. Apply Now! Downtown Yakima Farmers Market  This weekend, head to Downtown Yakima to enjoy the premier farmers market! Held every Sunday from 9 AM - 1 PM, the market features local goods from farmers, ranchers, artisans, and more. Read More in Northwest Public Broadcasting Art in the Park It's time, Central Washington! This year's Art in the Park is happening in Richland on July 28th and 29th. Featuring over 260 artists, food trucks, live music, and performances, Art in the Park is the perfect excuse to spend some time with your family and enjoy the outdoors. Read More in Visit Tri-Cities   It is an honor and a privilege to serve you in Congress. To stay up to date on how I am working to represent Central Washington, I encourage you to follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You can also find regular updates on my website. Sincerely, Dan Newhouse Contact Me     Rep. Newhouse | 504 Cannon House Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20515 Unsubscribe [email protected] Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by [email protected]