2017 Policy PositionsWSPHA works with our partners to advance policies that align with our mission of improving health and safety for all people in Washington. Our Board of Directors considers endorsement of resolutions, policy proposals, and ballot measures annually. During the state legislative session, we promote public health funding and policies through meetings with legislators, testimony on issues and sharing relevant information with media.
Budget and Funding PrioritiesFund Foundational Public Health Services: Ensure core public health services are available to every resident of the state through a $60 million down payment toward Foundational Public Health Services that will close critical gaps in communicable disease and chronic disease programs/services/work across our state. E-Cigarette Revenue: Support a tax on e-cigarettes, and dedicate a portion of the revenue to public health. New Revenue: Support new revenue to fund core public health services. Policy PrioritiesIncrease Tobacco and E-Cigarette Purchase Age to 21: Support legislation to increase the purchase age for tobacco and e-cigarettes from 18 to 21. Gun Violence Prevention: Support legislation to address the epidemic of gun violence. Address the Opioid Crisis: Support a statewide secure medicine return program and other efforts to address the opioid crisis, such as enhancements to the prescription drug monitoring program. |
APHA is the national voice of public health and champions the health of all people and all communities. It is the only organization that combines a nearly 150-year perspective, a broad-based member community and the ability to influence federal policy to improve the public’s health. Learn more at www.apha.org.