Sen. Tim Sheldon, D-Potlach, has been recommended by his colleagues in the Senate Democratic Caucus for the role of president pro tempore, the member who presides over the Senate when the Senate president, Lt. Gov. Brad Owen, is unavailable.

“I’m honored by my colleagues’ expression of support and confidence,” Sheldon said. “The president pro tem is responsible not just for ensuring orderly floor action but for ruling on questions of order and interpreting statute, such as whether a fee qualifies as a tax. I’m humbled to see the level of respect for my judgment.”

As president pro tempore, Sheldon would take over all duties for Owen when he is away on business, is ill, is filling in for the governor when the governor is out of the state, or is unavailable for any other reasons during the legislative session. Those duties include preserving order on the Senate floor; signing acts and resolutions adopted by the Senate; presiding over the Senate Rules Committee; and making final decisions on all questions of order.

Sheldon was also recommended to retain his seat on the Senate Transportation Committee, to regain his former seat on the Senate Energy, Natural Resources & Marine Waters Committee, and to receive a seat on the Senate Rules Committee.

“I’m happy with the prospect of returning to Energy, which dovetails with my longtime interest and expertise in issues as a member of the Energy Northwest Executive Board, and I’m enthused by the opportunity to serve on Rules,” Sheldon said. “These are all key roles that would increase my influence and effectiveness in representing the interests of the 35th District and Washingtonians across our state.”