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Public policy is a significant catalyst for change because it directs funding toward important community-health and human-service needs that complement the ongoing fundraising and investment efforts of United Way of Whatcom County. United Ways of Washington have developed a statewide public-policy agenda, which we adopted at United Way of Whatcom County. We provide information to legislators and to the public in an effort to increase understanding and awareness of the impact of policy and budget decisions on health and human services in our community.
UNITED WAYS OF WASH. PUBLIC POLICY AGENDA 2010
The United Ways of Washington (UWWA) is the statewide association of Washington ’s 26 local United Ways. Given that education, income and health are the building blocks for a good life, the United Ways of Washington's 2010 legislative priorities focus on these areas.
1. HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES: Preserve Existing Investments in Key Health and Human Service Programs
ISSUE:
The economic downturn impacting our state has created a rise in need for critical health and human service programs. For many, this is their first time seeking assistance. At the same time there is increasing need, our state's treasury has seen a dip in revenues, resulting in significant cuts during the 2009 legislative session, particulary around the Basic Health Program.
It is important to note that even with the increasing demand coupled with declining revenues, the Legislature and Governor did preserve a number of important programs, including children's health care, General Assistance and housing.
POSITION:
- Preserve existing investments in key health and human service programs
For additional information, contact:
Donna Christensen
Legislative Advocate
(206)478-2242
Erica Hallock
President/CEO
United Ways of Washington
(509)991-2390
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Governor Christine Gregoire
2. EDUCATION: Continue Strengthening of Washington's Early Learning System
ISSUE:
Early childhood education is a foundation for strong schools and strong economy. Quality early learning opportunities prepare tomorrow's workforce for global competition, while ensuring that the children of today's workers enter school ready to succeed. Early learning opportunities are critical to economic development and support school success. Statewide, United Ways invest over $7.5 million in early learning.
POSITION:
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Support existing early learning investments
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Any additional state funding for education should include early learning
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Restore 2009 reductions to home visiting
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Support policies and investments that allow the state to maximize federal opportunities in early learning and education
ISSUE:
Following the 2009 legislative session, Governor Gregoire vetoed a portion of the Basic Education legislation that would have expanded our state's definition of basic education to include early learning for at-risk three and four year olds. Following her veto, Governor Gregoire issued a directive to Department of Early Learning Director Dr. Bette Hyde and Superintendent of Public Instruction Randy Dorn to develop a comprehensive early learning system for birth through five by December 1st.
POSITION:
- United Ways of Washington will participate in the development of this proposal and potentially support enactment, depending on the outcome
3. INCOME: Provide Tools to Strengthen Financial and Consumer Education
POSITION:
- Require financial education as part of job readiness training; incentivize for participants; TANF, other programs (WorkSource)
- Development of an information clearinghouse (211)
- Require TANF direct deposit
- Modest funding for financial education/coaching/mentoring pilot projects
Contact your Legislators.
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