Washington’s Legislative Session Nears the Halfway Mark

The 2019 session has gotten off to an exciting start for health advocates. On February 20 the House of Representatives passed legislation that would raise the minimum sale age for tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, to 21. Passing the bill this early in session was an important statement by legislative leaders that this bill is a priority. We are eager to work with our advocacy partners and legislative champions to move the bill through the Senate and on to final passage.

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We continue to support legislation that would invest in greater access to healthy fruits and vegetables for Washingtonians participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The Fruit and Vegetable Incentive Program increases SNAP participants’ purchasing power for fruits and vegetables at farmers’ markets and other retailers. The incentives can help families afford more fruits and vegetables which contribute to a healthy diet and improved health outcomes. Both the House and Senate versions of the legislation have been moving and continue to see solid legislative support.

As session marches on, conversations around the budget will heat up. Health priorities relating to bike and pedestrian safety in the transportation budget, capital equipment for schools who want to provide improved nutrition and greater physical activity opportunities, and important prevention programs will all be up for discussion. We hope we can rely on your continued support as we advocate for these policies and others that will help improve the health of our friends and neighbors here in Washington.

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