Updates on HLC’s 2019 Policy Priorities
This post was updated April 17, 2019
Each year, the Healthy Living Collaborative of Southwest Washington identifies a policy agenda based on input from its broad coalition of community stakeholders. Recommendations for 2019 seek to address a broad range of issues that influence health and wellness in Southwest Washington communities.
- Increase the Housing and Essential Needs rental assistance program.
- Implement eviction reform and require cause to terminate tenancy to prevent homelessness. SB 5733 & HB 1656, HB 1453, and SB 5600 — passed!
- Invest $200 million in the Housing Trust Fund to create affordable homes.
- Increase the Medicaid reimbursement rate. HB 1185 & SB 5319
- Support the priorities of the Children’s Mental Health Workgroup – Priorities will likely include increasing the Medicaid rate, addressing workforce issues, increasing school based mental health services, including suicide prevention and expanding partial hospitalization programs.
HB 1265, HB 1479, HB 1874 — passed! HB 1876, SB 5903 — passed! and SB 5904
- Opioid prevention – Comprehensive package addressing prevention, treatment and recovery supports. HB 1331 & SB 5380 — passed!
- Funding for school Nurses, counselors, family and community engagement coordinators, and school nurse corps – $60 million for K-12 comprehensive supports. HB1265
- Increase Working Connections Child Care reimbursement rates – ensure they cover the cost of meeting state standards. SB 5436 & HB 1344 — passed!
- Funding to support school-based health centers – Potential pilot funding for Southwest Washington.