OLYMPIA—The newest lawmaker from the 22nd District, Rep. Jessica Bateman (D-Olympia), will serve on three committees that reflect her legislative priorities.
“The price for housing continues to rise much faster than paychecks, with more families spending half their income on it,” Bateman said. “That’s unsustainable and puts people at greater risk for homelessness, especially low-wage workers, seniors, and those with disabilities.”
Bateman will serve on Housing, Human Services & Veterans along with the Capital Budget committee, which controls the state’s construction budget, including funds for affordable housing and environmental cleanup projects.
She was also selected as vice chair of Health Care & Wellness, a critical committee as the state struggles with the COVID crisis, mental health needs, and addiction.
“Health care is essential,” Bateman said. “I’ll work to make health coverage universal and affordable. That starts with rising health insurance premiums and prescription drug costs. Better mental health services and substance use disorder treatment will also help people keep their jobs and homes and rebuild their lives instead of being left to the streets.”
(Credit: LSS Photography)
Bateman is a first-generation college student who earned her master’s degree in Public Administration from The Evergreen State College and her bachelor’s degree in environmental science. She currently works as a health care policy analyst, and served on the Olympia City Council and as staff in the House of Representatives.
Bateman can be reached by the toll-free Hotline at 800-562-6000 (800-635-9993 TTY), by email at Jessica.Bateman@leg.wa.gov, and by regular mail at Rep. Jessica Bateman, PO Box 40600, Olympia, WA 98504-0600.