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# [#] The legislative session started and I wanted to update you on one of my top legislative priorities. State Representative Tarra Simmons and I are proposing a bill to guarantee 4 million Washingtonians access to more affordable hospital care — more than half of whom will be able to go to a hospital without paying anything out of pocket, including co-pays and deductibles.

Current law requires hospitals to provide financial assistance to some vulnerable Washingtonians, but this “protection” is far too limited. For example, a single parent working two minimum wage jobs does not currently qualify for assistance.

Many Washingtonians pay for health insurance, but co-pays and deductibles can destabilize families and launch them into a debt cycle. An unexpected health event like a broken arm, burst appendix, or pregnancy complication can put their family into financial distress.

We want to change that — and we can.

With this bill (HB 1616), Washingtonians making up to 400% of the federal poverty level — approximately half of our state's population — will qualify for free or discounted hospital care after insurance. Under my proposal, that same single parent working two minimum wage jobs will now pay $0 out-of-pocket for hospital care.

This bill does not cost taxpayers or the government any additional money.

Obviously hospital care is only one important part of our healthcare system, but with this legislation, we can help protect Washingtonians who suffer an unexpected health emergency requiring a hospital visit. Nobody should be forced to choose between feeding their family and receiving the medical attention they need. Add your name if you stand with me in our fight to provide affordable hospital care. [[link removed]]

Thank you for taking a stand,

Bob
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Re-election to Attorney General
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