Friends,
As the summer is winding down, I wanted to highlight some exciting projects that our communities can look forward to, where to find vaccines near you, and more.
As we dive into the work of preparing for the 2022 session, I will always take note of your feedback and ideas moving forward. Head to my website to find my contact information and reach out, or send an email to me directly at Marko.Liias@leg.wa.gov
This session, we passed a comprehensive Capital Budget that makes historic investments in communities across our state while creating tens of thousands of jobs to rebuild our economy. Apart from massive investments in statewide services like early learning, behavioral health, broadband, and affordable housing, the Capital Budget also included funding for monumental projects in our 21st District community. Just a few of those exciting projects include:
- $1,670,000 for the Mariner Community Campus in Everett, to create an accessible center to provide resources to residents.
- $258,000 for restoration to the Edmonds Marsh to ensure the natural environment is protected and habitable for native wildlife.
- $258,000 for an Edmonds Waterfront Center
- $206,000 for the Mukilteo Japanese Gulch Creek Daylighting project, which will play a crucial role in restoring the waterfront for salmon habitat.
Head to my Instagram to learn more about the projects and to share the great news with your neighbors!
Long Term Care Resources
My office has been getting lots of questions about the WA Cares Fund that the Legislature created in 2019. Seven out of every ten Washingtonians will need long-term care at some point in their lives, but most do not have enough savings to afford it. This bill aims to help Washington households deal with the ballooning costs of long-term care and increase access to necessary resources.
WA Cares Fund is projected to save Washington taxpayers $19 million in the first year of operation (2025), $368 million in 2050 and have a net savings of over $3.9 billion by 2052 by helping people pay for care before they impoverish themselves to receive Medicaid.
No one should have to spend their way down into poverty in order to be eligible for long-term care through Medicaid, which is the terrible reality facing many households today. While it may not be a perfect solution, the WA Cares Fund will work to prevent that.
If you have remaining questions about the program, head to WaCaresFund.wa.gov/learn-more/ to find contact information and read frequently asked questions.
Due to increasing covid-19 cases in the face of the delta variant, Washington State has implemented another mask requirement in public indoor public spaces to slow the spread of infections. While it’s disappointing to feel like we’re moving backwards, the Delta variant requires decisive action to save lives.
Additionally, I support the Governor’s public health action to require vaccinations in education settings. And for the time being, it’s time to mask up again. Click the photo above or head to vaccinelocator.doh.wa.gov to find a free and effective vaccine near you!
There are plenty of ways for folks to get involved in Olympia- from talking directly to your representatives to going to public hearings about bills. Another great opportunity to be more involved and learn more about state government is our amazing Legislative Internship. This paid internship runs during session (January to March this year) and is open to Juniors and Seniors attending a 4-year university.
Applications are open until Oct. 20 this year. To learn more and apply, head to the website here: https://leg.wa.gov/internships/Pages/default.aspx.
– Marko
