On the opening day of the 2015-2016 legislative session, Rep.-elect Joan McBride was sworn in to the House of Representatives. She represents the 48th Legislative District, which covers Redmond, Kirkland, Bellevue and the Point cities.

To her new service, Rep. McBride said, “After living and working on the Eastside for over 50 years, I am honored to serve my constituents in this new role.”

A veteran of public service on the local level, Rep. McBride’s experience has prepared her well her for new positions on the Local Government, Environment, Transportation and Rules committees.

“I know this will be a challenging session,” said Rep. McBride. “There are so many tough issues to tackle: reforming our regressive tax system, passing a transportation revenue package, and fully funding education. But, at the core, I believe there is nothing more important than building a prosperous Washington, with opportunity for all. I am excited and ready to face these issues head-on.”

Rep. McBride formerly served as the Kirkland mayor and on the City Council. A longtime Eastside leader, she has served on the boards of the Kirkland Performance Center, Friends of Youth, Kirkland Arts Center, Feet First, Together Center, Kirkland Interfaith Network, Washington Bikes, as well as on several local PTAs. Prior to her service to the City of Kirkland, Rep. McBride worked in nonprofit development and community relations.