DAVE PAUL: Update on Healthcare
State Representative Dave Paul (D-Oak Harbor) sent out the following email from his campaign account on Sat., May 27, 2023.
Dear Friends,
I’m happy to be back home after a successful 2023 Legislative Session. Here is a quick update on some of the work we did to improve healthcare in our community.
I’ve heard from many about the importance of improving behavioral health, including strengthening mental health services and increasing substance use disorder treatment options in our community. The operating budget includes $1.1 billion to improve mental health and addiction services across our state.
In addition, the Legislature was convened on May 16th for a 1-day special session to finalize policy to address the 2021 Supreme Court decision that overturned Washington’s drug possession law. The bipartisan compromise prioritizes treatment for substance use disorder while also providing tools for law enforcement to keep our community safe. The bill includes $63 million to fund diversion, treatment, and behavioral health programs.
The operating budget also includes $1 billion for public health and better reimbursement rates for pediatricians, doctors, and healthcare workers.
Also on the policy front, the Legislature reduced healthcare costs by requiring insurance coverage of hearing aids and instruments (HB 1222) and by capping the cost of insulin to $35 a month (SB 5729).
Finally, I’m pleased that the budget will continue the funding of the youth mental health program I created in 2021 for Island County.
Thanks to everyone who met with me before and during the Legislative Session to provide feedback on these priorities.
As always, it’s an honor to serve as your state representative.
Dave
[Ed. Note: donation link omitted]
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