Schools, public safety top Sen. Fain's address to Auburn Kiwanis

Auburn Reporter

Sen. Joe Fain (R-Auburn) joined the Auburn Kiwanis on Thursday afternoon as a guest speaker at the group's monthly meeting.

In addition to addressing statewide implications of the legislative session, Fain discussed new DUI laws set to take effect later this month.

"Sen. Fain addressed what he felt were the most interesting and pressing issues in the recently completed session," said Bob Spurrell, president of the Auburn Kiwanis. "His knowledge on a variety of subjects, coupled with his enthusiasm for his work is evident and I appreciate his willingness to work with both sides of the aisle to find solutions to the issues facing our region."

Fain talked about the Legislature's work to provide an additional $1 billion for the state's public education system. Club members were particularly interested in the expansion of all-day kindergarten and what these changes mean for the Auburn School District.

Fain also discussed the state's new efforts to combat impaired driving. In the final days of the 2013 session the Legislature adopted new laws that stiffen penalties on drunk drivers. While progress was made, Fain talked about his recent experience as a DUI prosecutor with King County, and how time in the courtroom is shaping his plans to further revamp penalties next session.

"It takes five DUI convictions within 10 years before perpetrators are charged with a felony," Fain said. "Most every other state is fewer. That's just one example of the continued steps we need to take to make our communities safer."

The Auburn Kiwanis group is made up of local residents who volunteer time and fundraising efforts for charitable causes in the community that help local youth. Some of the organizations they work with include the Auburn Food Bank, Communities in Schools of Auburn, and Auburn Youth Resources where Fain serves as a board member, among others.

"I've always loved spending time with service groups in our area. They are filled with dedicated leaders who take what little free time they have in their schedules and pour it back into community service," Fain said.