PASCO, Wash. – Washington State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti made an appearance at the Red Lion Hotel in Pasco, speaking at the Retired Public Employees of Washington Chapter 21 meeting.
There, Pellicciotti spoke about his job and duties, as well as advocating for the protection and well-being of Washington’s retired public employees.
Pellicciotti, who is serving his second term as state treasurer, also spent four years serving as a representative for Washington’s 30th Legislative District. Pellicciotti says public workers directly benefit Washington’s economy.
“The work that they’ve done has generated $1.8 billion over the next four years for the people of Washington through our investment returns,” said Pellicciotti. “I always want to make sure we thank those who do that important work.”
As State Treasurer, Pellicciotti is responsible for multiple duties, one of which is securing Washington’s long-term financial stability. In his interview with NonStop Local, Pellicciotti mentioned his opposition to State Bill 5392, which would transfer Washington’s Rainy-Day Fund into its General Fund.
“The time is now to actually set money aside. We have a range of challenges coming our way, both in terms of economic volatility,” said Pellicciotti. “I very much am opposed to some legislators attempt to raid that rainy day fund. We need to make sure we’re protecting it for our needs in the years ahead.”
Pellicciotti also addressed the recent tariffs placed on Canada and Mexico, highlighting their impact on Eastern Washington.
“Here in Eastern Washington, 90% of the fertilizer that comes to eastern Washington to meet our needs in our state comes from Canada,” said Pellicciotti. “Those costs are going to increase the cost of production here. It’s going to make it harder for folks who are producing, you know, various agricultural products to get by.”
While his primary focus of traveling to Pasco was to speak with the chapter, one of his focuses in office is to inform the public about what happens in state government.
“I’m just really focused on making sure we bring the issues to the Treasurer’s office all around the state and make sure people know about the work that we’re doing in the Treasurer’s office, and how it can better meet the needs of the people of our state,” said Pellicciotti.
