Session Update: Med School, Mental Health, Healthy Kids & Town Hall

House OK’s WSU Medical School

 
Moving Forward

Rep. Riccelli’s House Bill 1559 would allow WSU to create a new medical school in Spokane.


Greetings from Olympia! Yesterday marked the final day for most bills to pass out of the House in order to be considered this session. House Democrats passed important legislation for economic security to help families across the state, like raising the minimum wage and ensuring paid sick leave for workers.

I was also pleased that the House voted 81-17 in favor of my bill allowing WSU to establish a new medical school. A new WSU Medical School would create good jobs and improve access to care in Eastern Washington and underserved areas across the state. I am proud to be a part of this exciting initiative.

Medical School press release

Mental Health & Healthy Families Bills Clear Cutoff

 
Gary Kennison

Gary Kennison and Kristen Otoupalik have been tireless advocates for legislation in the memory of Sheena Henderson.


The House also passed my legislation to fix holes in our mental health system, motivated by the tragic murder-suicide that killed Sheena Henderson in Spokane last July. Sheena’s father, Gary, and friend, Kristen, have provided a voice of unwavering compassion throughout this process to help people in a mental health crisis get the help they need so no one has to suffer this loss.

Sheena & Chris Henderson's Law

The House also passed bills I introduced to keep children and families healthy in Washington state.

  • House Bill 1285 will save lives by ensuring every newborn gets screened for heart defects,
  • House Bill 2021 will increase access to low-cost prescription drugs, and
  • House Bill 1369 expands opportunities for nursing, medicine, and pharmacy students to volunteer in the community.

Read More Here


Town Hall This Saturday

 

Don’t forget to come to the 3rd District Town Hall this Saturday! All the details are on my website and right here in my video update. Check it out by clicking on the video link below.

I hope you will join us on Saturday! It is an honor to serve you.

Best Regards,

Marcus Riccelli

 
 
 
 

Representative Marcus Riccelli
3rd Legislative District – Spokane