Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Initiative 2081 topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Senator Pearson stands by comments on Initiative 2081; says edits removed context
Summary
Senator Pearson told reporters he stands by his remarks about Initiative 2081 and that a media clip removed context; he said nonpartisan staff told him the initiative did not amend existing youth‑consent laws and recalled prior floor votes affecting 13‑year‑old forensic exam notifications.
Senator Pearson addressed questions about comments that drew national attention and alleged mischaracterization in media coverage.
When asked whether his remarks about 13‑year‑olds making their own health and mental‑health decisions were taken out of context, Pearson said, "I stand by what I said," and explained his view that existing Washington law affords certain decisionmaking rights to people 13 and older. He told reporters a Fox News clip edited his remarks and removed references to existing state law, changing the meaning.
Pearson referenced prior legislative action to explain how laws change: "We had extensive conversation about this in the hearings on initiative 20 81... nonpartisan staff said, no. It couldn't because that would be unconstitutional." He added that if clarification is needed, lawmakers can amend statutes through the legislative process.
Deputy Majority Leader (unnamed) added that the body had last year unanimously voted on an item allowing no parental notification for certain forensic examinations involving 13‑year‑olds and said that is the legislative process to change law.
What’s next: Pearson framed the matter as a legal and procedural issue about how initiatives interact with existing statutes and said clarifying legislation could be pursued if needed. No formal legislative action was announced at the briefing.
