Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Thank you so much to all those who attended the recent joint town hall with Rep. Bronoske and me at Clover Park Technical College. It was a joy to see so many familiar faces, take your questions, and provide an update on what’s going on in Olympia. A fundamental part of representing our district is making sure everyone can connect with their state government and help us understand how to better solve real problems. I look forward to hosting more events like this in-person in our community.
Investing In Our Community
Last week, the House of Representatives introduced our proposed “Resilient Washington” operating budget. It protects the most vulnerable Washingtonians while strategically maintaining high-priority investments despite reduced federal support.
Healthcare: The Resilient Washington Budget invests in Medicaid rate increases for providers to care for individuals with assisted living arrangements, behavioral healthcare, and dental healthcare. We also must stabilize our healthcare delivery system including hospitals, family practice, and pediatric providers. In addition to this impactful funding, the budget proposal includes:
- $68 million to increase rates for healthcare workers including primary care physicians and pediatricians
- $25 million to help individuals with lower incomes who aren’t eligible for Medicaid
- $344 million to increase rates 15%, supporting workers
- $193 million to invest in behavioral health beds
- $139 million for substance use disorder, overdose response, recovery supports, and treatment
- $25 million for kids with complex needs
Community Safety: The proposed transportation budget takes into consideration the roles of law enforcement and community partnerships with regard to traffic management, driver education, and public safety. Washington is facing its highest level of traffic fatalities since 1990, with 745 people losing their lives in 2022 alone. To address these issues, $226 million is being directed to community safety. Funding includes:
- $28 million for increased criminal justice training and certification
- $13 million for the Office of Independent Investigations
- $12 million for firearm safety and violence prevention
- $8 million for Amend training, which brings a health focused approach to correctional staff and improves reintegration of incarcerated individuals
- $21 million for therapeutic courts
- $48 million for Office of Public Defense & Office of Civil Legal Aid
Video Update
Our neighbors who have low income are hurting even more with escalating inflation. We are working to help low-income families afford basic needs. These families often include our older neighbors, military and veteran families, and people with disabilities. We need to do more to help them get by. Watch my video update for more information by clicking here or on the image above.
Hospitality Grants
This year, the Legislature strategically invested in small businesses struggling in the wake of the pandemic. One of these investments is a new hospitality grant from the Department of Commerce. This program will award financial relief to eligible restaurants, hotels, motels, and other hospitality businesses in Washington. Those grants are now open, so apply today! Head to wahospitalitygrants.com to see if you’re eligible.
Let Me Know What Is Important to You
If you plan to come down to Olympia, please schedule a time for us to meet so you can share your concerns with me. I am also happy to meet remotely if you are not quite comfortable in a public setting or simply don’t have time to make it to Olympia. My priority is hearing from you however you are most comfortable, whether remotely or in person.
If you have comments, questions, or ideas, please contact my office. I hope to hear from you soon! It’s an honor to serve you and your family.
In service,
State Representative Mari Leavitt
28th Legislative District