Issue Position: Creating Safe Communities

Issue Position

In addition to supporting our law enforcement professionals and emergency responders, we can make our communities safer through policy. Whether it is road safety, gun responsibility or combating domestic violence, it is imperative that we keep our schools, workplaces and families safe.

As a mother and elected official, I am committed to fulfilling this basic responsibility.

I became involved in politics when a road near my home was too dangerous for the amount of kids and cars crossing it. Parents were nervous to let their children walk to school or the library. My involvement on the issue is what eventually led me to a seat on the Mercer Island City Council. I will continue to advocate for policies that improve road safety from Safe Routes to School as part of our state's Transportation Package to DUI prevention efforts.

I have seen firsthand the devastation gun violence can have on individuals and an entire community. Last session, we passed legislation to make sure those with a protection order out against them do not have access to firearms. Unfortunately, this year, neither of the common sense gun safety bills to reduce gun violence in our communities passed. Rest assured, I will continue to promote solutions that reduce gun violence.

Domestic violence unfortunately occurs in all communities. We must ensure that victims have the paid time off from work so they can ensure the safety of their families without having to jeopardize their jobs. My first speech from the House floor was advocating for paid safe and sick leave.

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