Rep. Steve Hailey of Mesa (9th District) died Sunday morning after a year-long battle with colon cancer. First elected to the House in 2006, Rep. Hailey was a long-time rancher and a former President of the Washington Cattleman’s Association. He recently announced plans to step down before the 2009 session began. You can find more details at the Tri-Cities Herald. Our condolences to Rep. Hailey’s family and friends.