Currently holds the office of Washington State Senate - District 48 until January 8, 2027.
Candidate for Washington Insurance Commissioner in 2024 Washington General Election.
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Get StartedAs Insurance Commissioner, I will do just that, and will continue to defend access to quality reproductive care by working with other state insurance commissioners to make abortion a federal right - which it was for over 50 years under Roe v. Wade. The right to choose is one of the most important issues in dispute this election, and one that I will unconditionally defend. Learn more
As Insurance Commissioner, I will build on the work already being done to address climate change and related insurance issues like increasing premiums and non-renewal notices. This necessarily includes working with insurers on risk mitigation strategies for homeowners and businesses, ensuring consumers are aware of steps they can take to reduce their risk. It also includes exploring options for risk-sharing and partnership with the state’s public insurance program to provide coverage for homes and businesses based on risk assessment. Finally, I will review the state’s regulatory framework to ensure the property insurance products sold in our state are fair, affordable and accessible to all Washingtonians. Learn more
As Insurance Commissioner, I will support agency-request legislation to require gun owner liability insurance to provide financial compensation for victims of unintentional shootings. Insurance companies could incentivize responsible gun ownership by requiring gun owners to demonstrate their knowledge of gun safety and secure storage practices. This insurance will provide an additional layer of accountability for gun owners, similar to our state’s requirement that drivers have auto insurance and most importantly, provide some financial support to victims of accidental shootings and help reduce the number of accidental shootings and deaths. Learn more
Once universal healthcare is implemented, I will maintain vigilant oversight to ensure the system operates efficiently, effectively, and in the best interest of Washington residents. I am committed to accountability and will regularly evaluate the system's performance to identify areas for improvement. Learn more
As Insurance Commissioner, I will be actively engaged in the work to develop and implement short term, mid-term and long term strategies to move Washington to a single-payer, universal health care system, including. Learn more
I am dedicated to addressing healthcare disparities and ensuring equitable access to healthcare services for all Washingtonians, regardless of income, race, ethnicity, or geographic location. My administration will prioritize initiatives that promote health equity and eliminate barriers to care. Learn more
As Insurance Commissioner, I will work to simplify the appeals process to make it easier for consumers to engage and understand, and will provide information about ways the Insurance Commissioner’s Office may be of assistance when a medical claim is denied. Learn more
I will work with the UHCC to conduct comprehensive research on various healthcare models, drawing upon successful approaches both domestically and internationally. This research will inform the development of a robust and tailored universal healthcare system that meets the unique needs of Washington residents. Learn more
One significant achievement has been the passage of a law that establishes a presumption of occupational-relatedness for certain cancers developed by firefighters. However, there are still challenges ahead, particularly regarding insurance coverage for screening tests crucial in detecting these cancers early. Despite the proven effectiveness of these tests in saving lives and reducing healthcare costs in the long run, insurance companies resist covering them. As your State Insurance Commissioner, I will prioritize advocating for mandatory coverage of these tests by health plans, ensuring that our firefighters have access to the preventive care they deserve without financial barriers. Learn more
It’s also important for drivers to do all they can to lower their premiums. I will work to make programs that encourage risk reduction, like driver’s training and accident prevention programs, accessible to everyone. In addition, insurers could partner with the auto industry by creating discounts for vehicles with advanced safety features. Finally, as Insurance Commissioner, I will work with other state agencies to address the high rates of uninsured drivers and rising medical costs that impact auto insurance rates. Learn more
As Insurance Commissioner, I will review premium increases to ensure they are actuarially sound. Additionally, there must be more transparency in the auto insurance industry around their pricing formulas and factors used to determine premiums. Learn more
I will work closely with state legislators to draft and advocate for legislation that establishes a universal healthcare system in Washington. This legislation will prioritize equitable access to healthcare services, sustainable funding mechanisms, and strong consumer protections. Learn more
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