Contact your State Senator No images? Click here John, Critical habitat, forests, and farmland are in danger of harmful development. The Growth Management Act (GMA) was the first piece of legislation passed with the goal of managing urban growth and sprawl in our biggest cities and counties. It aims to preserve our Evergreen state's forests, streams, and rural lands. Since its passing in 1991, counties have used a loophole within the GMA to allow illegal growth in our working farms and rural landscapes. We can prevent sprawl and protect critical habitat by passing Senate Bill 5042. This bill would close the sprawl loophole by ensuring that the Growth Management Hearing Board can review any county land-use changes, such as Urban Growth Area expansions and farmland de-designation before taking effect. Senators will vote on Senate Bill 5042 today. We need every Senator to hear from you. Send an email to your Senator right now to vote YES on SB 5042! Closing the GMA Sprawl Loophole is a top legislative priority for the Environmental Priorities Coalition. Native species as well as working people depend on the preservation of rural farmland and forests to thrive. Thank you for all you do and for supporting this important legislation. Mariana Sanchez Castillo (they/she), Field Organizer |