Today, I would like to share my deeply personal journey in recovery, in the hopes that it will touch at least one person—maybe you, or a friend, or a parent, or a neighbor—and it will remind you that you are not alone.
This path has ignited within me a fervent commitment to helping others struggling with substance use disorder. As a Native woman, I understand the unique challenges faced by Indigenous communities in accessing care—and I also understand the triumph and thoughtfulness of care within our communities.
That’s why I’m proud to introduce a package of bills aimed at addressing the opioid and fentanyl crisis gripping our state. These bills seek to improve coordination between state and tribal behavioral health systems, streamline licensing processes for Tribal facilities, transfer public property to federally recognized tribes for substance use disorder services, expand communication methods for crisis response, and enhance cross-jurisdictional cooperation between Tribes and law enforcement.
Additionally, I’m advocating for a capital budget request of $60 million to expand Tribal substance use disorder services across multiple projects. These initiatives are not just about legislation; they’re about healing. Together, we can Heal One Washington, bridging gaps and saving lives. It’s not just our responsibility; it’s our moral imperative to tackle these challenges head-on.
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