Senate unanimously adopts resolution honoring Sen. Matt Behnke

The Washington State Senate adopted Senate Resolution 8,705 honoring Senator Matt Behnke, recognizing his service in local government and the state legislature, his military career in the U.S. Army Aviation branch, and his work in higher education.

Senator Braun moved adoption of the resolution and described Behnke as "a pro" and "a team player," noting his four years in the Senate and prior service representing the 8th Legislative District in the House. The clerk read the resolution, which lists Behnke's committee service on environment, energy and technology, higher education and workforce development, ways and means, and rules, and highlights his work as a tenured cybersecurity professor at Columbia Basin College and his more than 21 years in Army aviation, where he retired as a lieutenant colonel.

Multiple members rose to speak in support. Senator Wilson Claire said she had "stood in strong support" and praised Behnke's work on human services systems, including efforts to modernize IT systems. Senator Hansen highlighted Behnke's role on broadband and a FAFSA-completion initiative and said his work helped put a bipartisan fraud-prevention review into the budget. Senator Elias and others recounted Behnke's bipartisanship and his outreach to outside experts.

After colleagues requested unanimous consent to add all members as cosponsors, the Senate adopted the resolution by voice vote; the presiding officer declared, "The ayes have it," and the resolution was adopted. Senator Behnke rose on a point of personal privilege to thank leadership, staff and family, saying, "My point of personal privilege is a big thanks. Heart is full today."