2023 Legislative Priorities

For the 2023 session, LCA is asking state policymakers to:

Fund Mental Health & Substance Abuse Programs
Our Washington state government must address behavioral workforce shortage by expanding access to peer services by creating professional peer specialists. The state should approve new licensing requirements for certain Behavioral Health positions to increase workforce. We need to streamline the process to address the workforce issues in WA state to help support the crisis by providing specific training requirements, certification, and oversight.

Fund youth violence prevention and intervention Programs
Youth violence is a significant problem that affects thousands of young people each day, and in turn, their families, schools, and communities. Youth violence and crime affect a community's economic health, as well as individuals' physical and mental health and well-being. Homicide is the third leading cause of death for youth in the United States. The Legislature should fund culturally relevant youth development programs.

Support Small Business
The success of Latino small businesses is a critical component of Washington State's economic well-being. Small business owners must be able to have access to state and federal capital and operating funding.

Support Apprenticeship Programs
Close skill gaps and meet evolving diversity workforce needs by supporting continuous improvement and investment in apprenticeship programs that include a career pathway strategy for basic skill instruction, job training, and support services.