Access to health insurance coverage significantly contributes to child health and well-being. Medicaid (also known as Apple Health in Washington) is a critical health insurance program that allows low-income families and children to have access to high-quality and affordable medical, dental and behavioral health care.
By Cassidy Christopher, Health Policy Manager and Kaitie Dong, Policy Manager
By Cassidy Christopher, Health Policy Manager
By Kaitie Dong, Policy Manager
Here in Washington, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated longstanding inequities faced by kids and families in communities of color. Access to health care, high-quality early experiences for children ages birth to 5, and progressive revenue are promising strategies to ensure that every child has an abundance of what they need to grow up into the people they dream of becoming.
The close of each fiscal year gives us the chance to reflect on the progress we’ve made and acknowledge the partners who made our successes possible.
“We can really change the course of history in Washington state.” These powerful words from Representative Noel Frame epitomize the message we heard at Path Forward 2022. Along with Representatives April Berg, Tana Senn, and Jamila Taylor, Rep. Frame joined Dr. Stephan Blanford at the Children’s Alliance office to talk about advancing racial equity for kids.
As we prepare for the 2023 legislative session, Children’s Alliance is strengthening our capacity to deliver relevant and up-to-date information on the most important issues facing children and families in our state.
Champions for Children are state lawmakers recognized by Children’s Alliance for their work to further our annual legislative agenda. Each of the following legislators provided significant leadership during the 2022 legislative session in advancing state policies or investments to improve the well-being of children in Washington.
Children’s Alliance health policy director Charles Adkins reflects on the health care achievements, and unfinished business, of the 2022 legislative session.
Hana Gregory, director of the Early Learning Action Alliance, reflects on the health care achievements, and unfinished business, of the 2022 legislative session.
Despite its short length, this legislative session bore significant victories for kids and families. And for the second year in a row, advocates from across the state were able to make their voices heard in Olympia by signing in to support or oppose bills and give testimony remotely.