Dear friends and neighbors,Ā
The Dobbs decision changed everything when the U.S. Supreme Court overturned abortion protections at the federal level. As a lifelong reproductive just advocate, Iām proud that the Washington State Legislature fought back this session, making our state a safe haven for residents who pursue or provide reproductive care.Ā
Protecting your private health data with the My Health, My Data Act: HB 1155Ā
The My Health, My Data Act is first-in-the-nation legislation to protect our deeply personal health information from being sold without our consent ā including reproductive health data. This bill protects the independence and dignity of individuals when they make their own health care decisions in our state. Ā
Protecting providers from disciplinary action for providing legal care in Washington: HB 1340Ā
This bill protects health care providers from discipline or having their license denied if they provide care that is in accordance with Washington State law. This will ensure that if a health care provider loses their license in another state for providing care that is legal in Washington, their Washington license remains intact. Ā
Protecting those who pursue or provide reproductive care with the Shield Law: HB 1469
We knew as soon as the Supreme Courtās Dobbs draft leaked that other states would find ways to impose civil liability for abortion and criminalize care. With this Shield Law, we will use every tool at our disposal to make sure all our stateās residents are safe from the reach of anti-abortion laws from Texas, Idaho, and elsewhere. Ā
Eliminating co-pays and deductible requirements for abortion care: HB 1115Ā
No oneās reproductive health decision and health care access should be impacted by their ability to pay. Co-pays and deductibles are significant barriers to reproductive care, especially for low-income patients. This bill eliminates these out-of-pocket costs for all Washington residents seeking abortions.Ā
Allowing the state to distribute mifepristone: HB 1854/SB 5768Ā
We believe every individual has the right to their own bodily autonomy. And that right extends to exercising the full spectrum of our reproductive health rights and services. This bill allows Washington to distribute mifepristone to those seeking to end a pregnancy or for miscarriage management. Ā
The 2023-2025 Washington State Operating Budget contains over $1 billion to expand health care access and Cascade Care subsidies toĀ all Washingtonians and maintains our commitment to public health.Ā
- Invests in foundational public health services – $77 million Ā
- Increases rates for health care workers including primary care and pediatricians – $32 million Ā
- Funds provider rates and reimbursement – $91 million Ā
- Funds Cascade Care for individuals with lower incomes who are not Medicaid eligible – $25 million Ā
- Provides funding for reproductive health services – $24 million Ā
- Provides funding for health equity for undocumented adults – $53 million
Thatās a wrap on my e-newsletter series to inform you of the legislature’s work during the 2023 session! You can review them all on my website.
As always, reach out anytime to my Legislative AssistantĀ Natalie WhiteselĀ orĀ email me. Itās an honor to serve you in Olympia.Ā
Enjoy the last days of summer!Ā
Best wishes,
State Representative Liz Berry
36th Legislative District