Washington Health Trust Bills Now in the Legislature

By WSI Healthcare Team

The uncertainty of healthcare coverage in America is a policy choice, not a foregone conclusion. With federal cuts on the way, Washington healthcare is in crisis. Washington will be one of the states most hard-hit by cuts to healthcare in the coming months. These cuts will force hospital closures, 450,000 residents will lose coverage, and 150,000 people relying on subsidies will be priced out of the exchange – rates double or triple the previous amounts have already been reported. It is up to Washington to take care of their residents. With the establishment of the West Coast Health Alliance, we are already divesting ourselves from a reliance on federal support. We should go farther. Let’s pass universal health care!

A bill already in the state legislature offers a solution. When passed, the Washington Health Trust (SB 5335/HB 1445) enables any Washington resident to enroll in comprehensive healthcare.

The proposal saves the state billions because it shifts costs from a profit-motivated industry that denies care to a publicly funded trust dedicated to paying our medical expenses. We are at a crossroads. We can cut services and programs, or we can cut out the middleman.

Washington has an opportunity to lead the nation by making universal healthcare a reality. We should act boldly and decisively and pass the Washington Health Trust. What are we waiting for?

1. Attend our January 11 Members Meeting to learn more. Rally in Olympia Jan. 12.

2. If you or someone you love are affected by rising premiums, loss of coverage, or reduced services we want to hear from you.
   Share Your Experience - here’s the link

3. Educate yourself on the plan by going to www.wholewashington.org.

Healthcare is a human right.