Looking Ahead in Washington

It's hard to believe it's already September.

We had some great success during the 2023 legislative session and we're excited to continue that work for the 2024 legislative session. Next year will be a short 60 day session.

Here's an overview of the many things we are working on for legislative session:

• Increased Commercial Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Program Funding - we were able to get an ongoing budget of $5 million per biennium in the budget, which was a crucial first step. However, we are nowhere near the CDC's recommended funding levels of $72.5 million.
• Ending the Sale of Flavored Tobacco Products, Including Menthol - Youth in Washington State are smoking flavored tobacco products and e-cigarettes at alarming rates. The removal of all flavorings from tobacco products is necessary to reduce appeal to youth and adults.
• Supporting policies that align with the Food is Medicine initiative - Food is Medicine refers to a  medical treatment or preventive intervention prescribed by a healthcare clinician, healthcare organization, or health insurance plan for patients with a diet-related health risk or condition and/or food insecurity. We are part of a coalition that works toward ensuring healthy food options for all.

Locally, we are continuing our work on:

• Updating water access policy at the highest needs schools in the Puget Sound - not all students have access to clean, safe water.

There are a few other things we are working on, which I'll share at a later date when the campaigns are more developed.

The 2024 Legislative session will be here before we know it.  We would like to hear from you about the issues you care about and how you would like to be involved. Please take a few minutes and answer our short (only 8 question) survey.

If you have any questions please reach out and we’d be happy to chat. Thank you for your support and we look forward to working together to build a healthier Washington.