Rep. Drew MacEwen was sworn into office Monday, marking the beginning of his fourth term in the Washington State House of Representatives.

The 35th District lawmaker will serve in a leadership role on two House committees.

Prior to the beginning of the 2019 session, he was appointed ranking Republican of the House Commerce and Gaming Committee. The 11-member committee considers legislation related to the regulation of commerce in the alcohol, tobacco and cannabis industries in Washington state, as well the regulation and oversight of gaming. In fiscal year 2018, liquor, cannabis and cigarette taxes generated more than $1 billion in revenue for the state.

“Each of these industries is extremely important to our state’s economy,” said MacEwen, R-Union. “Our job on the committee is largely to let the free market work, but we may also be required to implement certain regulations when necessary to protect the citizens of Washington state. It’s all about finding a proper balance.”

MacEwen will also continue in his role as assistant ranking Republican of the House Appropriations Committee, which considers and approves the operating budget.

“Our state’s operating budget has grown by more than 75 percent in less than a decade,” he said. “It is my hope committee members on both sides of the aisle can work together this session to demonstrate some semblance of fiscal discipline.”

In addition to his committee assignments, MacEwen serves as an assistant floor leader for the House Republican Caucus — a position he has held since 2018.

The 2019 legislative session began Jan. 14, and is scheduled to run 105 consecutive days.