This week House committees heard testimony on three different pieces of legislation sponsored by Rep. Marcus Riccelli (D-Spokane) that target children’s health.
“Healthy families are the cornerstone of thriving communities. But right now, we are headed in the wrong direction,” said Riccelli, a father of two small children. “Children of all ages are not getting the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy. For the first time, this generation of children may live shorter lives than their parents. We can do much better.”
The bills in the package all target different areas of our health and well-being, but are common in their goal to curb this alarming trend from birth through adolescence.
· House Bill 2544 addresses delays to newborn screening tests and results. The bill requires that the sample needs to be collected within 48 hours of birth, and delivered to the Department of Health within 72 hours of collection. Research shows that early detection is critical with rare disorders – days can make all the difference in preserving or significantly improving the life of a child. This reform will encourage better standards for hospitals and clinics by giving families the information to make some of life’s most important decisions. Click here to listen to Rep. Riccelli’s testimony on HB 2544.
· House Bill 2329 creates a “Breastfeeding Friendly” Washington designation. It is a voluntary program to encourage and recognize hospitals, health care providers, workplaces and child care centers that offer an optimal level of care for infant feeding. There are countless health benefits associated with breastfeeding. This bill acknowledges hospitals, health care providers, workplaces and child care centers that accommodate this important decision. Click here to listen to Rep. Riccelli’s testimony on HB 2239.
· House Bill 2410 creates the “Apple a Day” grant to promote healthy eating in public schools. Many school districts would love to serve healthier meals, but they lack the equipment needed to prepare more wholesome meals. This grant partners the state with local school districts to provide healthier options for children and instill healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime.
The package of bills has bipartisan support, and Riccelli hopes to move them out of the various committees in coming days.
“The health of Washington families is of paramount importance – our future depends on the health of the next generation,” said Riccelli, vice chair of the Health Care and Wellness committee. “These are small steps, but they will make a big difference in the lives of our children.”