Dear neighbors,
This is a quick update about what’s happening in the House of Representatives and what I’m working on for you back home.
Priorities this session
There’s a common theme in my priorities this session: making real, tangible improvements that help people.
Health care—When you shop at a store, or online, there’s a clear price tag. That’s not the case with when it comes to health care. And the greater the possible cost, such as hospital visits and surgery, the greater the uncertainty.
This is a tough problem to fix. I’m sponsored House Bill 1382 to start untangling that knot. We can’t reduce health care costs for taxpayers and patients without knowing the real prices.
Permits—Permits are necessary, but can take too long, whether it’s for a business, a house, or a public infrastructure project. I support efforts this session to speed up permits, and it’s why I wrote House Bill 1208.
This legislation makes permanent the streamlined permits for salmon habitat recovery projects throughout the state. The pilot project saved time and taxpayer money—and we should improve and expand on it.
Long-term care—Everyone deserves to age with dignity, and many of us will eventually need long-term care, whether it’s in our homes or at a nursing home.
Our state has a ground-breaking long-term care program, WA CARES, and I’m co-sponsoring legislation to put in effect a commission’s recommendations to strengthen and improve that program.
Building a better Washington—It’s my honor to serve as chair of the Capital Budget Committee. Our work means new schools and other vital infrastructure throughout the state and here in the 24th District.
These projects create good jobs during the building phase and once complete, they serve our communities for generations.
Local student serves a House page
We have a great House page program where high school students get a first-hand look at their democracy. I was happy to sponsor Ella Garcelon of Port Angeles and encourage interested students to apply for this one-week opportunity.
The House and Senate also have a great program for paid college internships. Click here to learn more about the page or intern program.
Good news for a local hospital
I’m happy to report that Olympic Medical Center is receiving $1 million from the state, part of a program we passed to save money and energy.
If you want more details, click here.
Please keep in touch
As always, please feel free to reach out to me with your ideas and comments!
