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Committee backs memorial to study creating a state Office of Peace or peacebuilding functions
Summary
House Memorial 40, sponsored by Representative Romero, would convene a study group to examine establishing an Office of Peace (or similar peacebuilding functions) in state government; the committee gave the memorial a do‑pass recommendation after testimony from peace advocates and public‑safety witnesses.
Representative Romero presented House Memorial 40 seeking a study of whether the state should create an Office of Peace or another institutional structure to coordinate peacebuilding, conflict‑resolution, and non‑punitive community interventions.
Supporters—including veterans, faith organizations and community mediators—testified that community‑based peacebuilding and alternative response models can reduce burdens on law enforcement and improve outcomes for people with behavioral health needs. Ronald Sosie, a retired paramedic and firefighter, described how alternative response units changed outcomes on certain calls; Kurt Rager of Lutheran Advocacy Ministry and other faith‑based speakers urged passage.
Committee members praised the concept and discussed tribal and indigenous peacemaking traditions. Vice Chair Little moved a do‑pass; Representative Luhan seconded. There was no recorded opposition and the committee recommended the memorial for further consideration.
