Sen. Kevin Ranker, D-San Juan Island, was sworn on Monday when the Senate convened for its 105-day regular session.

“There is a lot to do, and I am more than ready to get started on solutions to the major challenges we are facing, both locally and statewide,” Ranker said in a press release.

Ranker is vice-chairman of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Economic Development Committee, and the Senate Natural Resources, Ocean and Recreation Committee. He is a member of the Senate Transportation Committee, and the Senate Environment, Water and Energy Committee.

“I have been given a great opportunity to serve the people of Whatcom, Skagit and San Juan counties with these assignments. Each of these committees deals with issues that are of vital local concern, and allows me to represent the interests of the district.”

Ranker said earlier that he plans to open a district office in Anacortes and continue to live on San Juan Island. In the meantime, district residents may contact him at his office in Olympia, (360) 786-7678, or by e-mail at ranker.kevin@leg.wa.gov. He can also be reached via www.senatedemocrats.wa.gov/senators/ranker/