Dear Friends and Neighbors,  

Thank you so much to those of you who responded to our education survey in the last E-Newsletter—I really appreciate you taking the time to share what kind of support is the most meaningful to your family.  

A majority of respondents supported every education bill listed. HB 1658, authorizing public high school students to earn elective credit for paid work experience, received the most total support, and the most support compared to those who voted against the bill. When asked what legislative support would make the biggest difference for students in their households this year, respondents answered that charter schools and diverse schooling options, early learning workforce training, more college prep, affordable childcare, student loan reform/tuition assistance, better workforce training for Neurodivergent students, and free meals at school would be most impactful.  

Thanks again to those who responded! This week, I’d like to hear some feedback on what kind of public safety legislation you think would make the biggest difference for your community. Please take a few minutes to fill out this survey on current public safety legislation.  

Washington is in a substance use disorder crisis. We’ve had to face the reality that jailing people for drug use is not only harmful, but ineffective at preventing drug use and increasing public safety. Arrest disrupts housing opportunity, job opportunity, and access to other services, throwing people with substance use disorder into an endless cycle that prevents opportunities for growth. It’s time to change course and focus on healing our communities—we need a new approach.  

Two years ago, we ended the felony for possession model and focused on diverting those with substance use disorder into treatment. The State Legislature’s response to the State Supreme Court’s State v. Blake ruling increased funding for the behavioral health system, reduced the penalty for drug possession, and mandated law enforcement to offer pre-booking referrals to services in lieu of arrest. This solution was a patch, set to expire in July of 2023 in anticipation of enacting a longer-term solution. As we build a new framework to keep our communities safe, we must keep in mind that the investments we made in 2021 are just beginning to take shape—no challenge can be solved overnight, and meaningful change takes time.  

In the House, we have convened a work group of legislators from relevant committees and with relevant lived experiences to help ensure that Washington’s response to substance use disorder centers treatment and recovery while also ensuring accountability. The Senate is considering several bills featuring slightly different approaches–the House is actively, thoughtfully, and deliberately preparing to consider these bills and collaboratively develop a solution for Washington.  

Sentiment continues to support expansion of behavioral health resources and infrastructure for those facing substance use disorders. Communities remain very concerned about crimes associated with drug possession, and the Legislature needs to provide the tools to law enforcement to respond to these crimes. The criminal legal standard for possession of controlled substances should also incorporate access to community supports, rather than simply forcing individuals into an endless cycle of the criminal legal system and incarceration. We’re working on a comprehensive package to build a rapid, on-demand treatment and recovery support system for every county in Washington. 

This year, in conjunction with stakeholders from the community, those in recovery, those with lived experience, treatment providers, behavioral health experts, local leaders, and law enforcement, we will deliver a response to substance use disorder that offers true pathways to recovery while balancing the need for public safety.