OLYMPIA — The Senate Republican Caucus recently announced its 2018 committee appointments for the upcoming legislative session.

The Senate Republican Caucus consists of 24 GOP senators, including local lawmakers Mark Schoesler, R-Ritzville, Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, and Brad Hawkins, R-East Wenatchee. Republicans have their work cut out for themselves during the upcoming legislative session, as Democrats now have control of the Senate, in addition to the House of Representatives and governorship.

“Our members are anxious to get the session started and will continue to serve everyone in Washington with dedication and integrity,” Schoesler said. “I’m always proud and impressed by their level of commitment when tackling important issues. The 2018 legislative session will be no different.”

Leadership for the 2018 Senate Republican Caucus includes:

Leader: 9th District Sen. Mark Schoesler.

Deputy Leader: 8th District Sen. Sharon Brown.

Caucus Chair: 2nd District Sen. Randi Becker.

Vice Caucus Chair: 13th District Sen. Judy Warnick.

Floor Leader: 47th District Sen. Joe Fain.

Assistant Floor Leader: 12th District Sen. Brad Hawkins.

Whip: 10th District Sen. Barbara Bailey.

Assistant Whip: 16th District Sen. Maureen Walsh.

Local senators and their committee appointments include:

Agriculture, Water, Natural Resources and Parks Committee: Sen. Judy Warnick.

Early Learning and K-12 Education Committee: Sen. Brad Hawkins.

Energy, Environment and Technology Committee: Sen. Brad Hawkins.

Higher Education and Workforce Development Committee: Sen. Brad Hawkins.

Ways and Means Committee: Sen. Mark Schoesler and Sen. Judy Warnick.

Rules Committee: Sen. Mark Schoesler.

35th District Sen. Tim Sheldon, D-Potlatch, will be continuing to caucus with the Senate Republicans during the 2018 session, which begins Jan. 8.

Richard Byrd can be reached via email at city@columbiabasinherald.com.