Dear friends & neighbors,
I am thrilled to continue my public service representing you in Olympia! While there has been a learning curve with this new legislative body my new colleagues have been a tremendous help in getting me acclimated. Since we’re still in the early days of session I wanted to let you know what my legislative priorities are.
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Standing up for workers
Working people drive Washington’s economy and we need to do more to support them. This session I’m proud to sponsor several bills that provide protections for essential workers and their families.
Washington has the largest ferry system in the United States. Many residents depend on it to get to work, doctors’ appointments, or even just pick up groceries and other necessities. We can’t have reliable ferry service without a fully staffed and capable workforce. This is why I introduced HB 1619 to improve the paid family leave system for dock workers. Additionally, I introduced HB 1511 to place ferry captains back in the same bargaining units as the mates. This will improve contract negotiations and avoid work stoppages.
When considering workers rights, we must also look to the future. Artificial intelligence continues to creep into more aspects of our daily lives. Since it’s so new we have no idea what these implications mean. This is why I am sponsoring HB 1622 to give workers the right to provide feedback on how AI is implemented at their jobs.
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Improving and expanding healthcare access
Medical debt is one of the leading causes of bankruptcy in Washington state. That is why I am introducing HB 1445 which establishes the Washington Health Trust, a universal healthcare financing proposal in which the state ensures all residents are covered for healthcare regardless of their ability to pay. It’s time to start the conversation about making sure everyone in our state can get the care they need.
In addition, I am introducing HB 1545 to improve outcomes for victims of cardiac arrest and strokes. By having better coordination and data collection on these situations the state can better help hospitals treat these patients.
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Protecting animals and consumers
Outside of my public service I am a veterinary and small business owner. This drives my support for helping our local businesses succeed and speaking up for those who can’t speak for themselves. I introduced HB 1688 to help our local used car sellers protect their inventory from thieves stealing catalytic converters. Lowering supplies drives up costs and hurts working families.
My HB 1735 ends the inhumane practice of force-feeding birds to produce foie gras. No animal should have to suffer to produce a food item not essential to our diets.
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Keep your eyes open for my updates from my office about the work my colleagues and are getting done on your behalf! And please don’t hesitate to reach out, the legislative process works best when we hear your thoughts and stories.
In service,
Lisa Parshley, State Representative, 22nd District