Education and Childcare

Heather believes in equitable access to education and childcare. Her plans include:

• Investing in Public Education: Increase funding for public schools, support teacher retention programs, and promote policies that ensure equal educational opportunities for all students.

• Supporting Childcare: Advocate for expanded childcare options, especially for families with non-standard work hours, and ensure that childcare is affordable and accessible.

​​

Affordable Housing

Heather is deeply committed to addressing the housing crisis in Washington State. She plans to:

• Expand Affordable Housing: Champion policies that increase funding for the state Housing Trust Fund, support permanent supportive housing programs, and ensure robust renter protections.

• Keep Rent Stable: Work to keep rents from increasing unsustainably so we can keep people in their homes to reduce the impact on homelessness. 

• Increase Density Near Transit: Support mandatory inclusion of affordable housing in up-zoned areas near transit to ensure low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities have access to affordable and convenient housing.

​​

Women's Reproductive Health

Heather Koellen is a strong advocate for women's reproductive rights and health. She believes that every woman has the right to make decisions about her own body and health without government interference. Her priorities in this area include:

​

• Protecting Reproductive Rights: Heather is committed to safeguarding the right to choose and ensuring that access to safe and legal abortion services remains protected in Washington State. She opposes any legislation that seeks to restrict these rights.

• Expanding Access to Reproductive Healthcare: Heather will work to ensure that all women have access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare, including contraception, family planning services, and prenatal care. She supports policies that expand healthcare coverage and remove barriers to accessing these essential services.

• Supporting Maternal Health: Recognizing the importance of maternal health, Heather advocates for increased funding and support for maternal healthcare services. This includes initiatives to reduce maternal mortality rates and improve health outcomes for mothers and babies, particularly in underserved communities.

• Addressing Health Disparities: Heather is dedicated to addressing the disparities in reproductive health outcomes among different racial and socioeconomic groups. She will advocate for policies that promote health equity and ensure that all women have access to high-quality reproductive healthcare, regardless of their background or financial situation.

​​

Climate Action and Environmental Sustainability

Heather recognizes the urgent need to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability. Her priorities include:

• Reducing Carbon Emissions: Advocate for comprehensive climate action legislation to reduce carbon emissions, invest in renewable energy, and promote sustainable land use practices.

• Protecting Biodiversity: Support policies that preserve natural habitats, stricter regulations on pollutants, and protection of endangered species.

• Promoting Public Transportation: Expand public transportation options to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and support equitable access to clean air and water.

​​

Labor and Workers' Rights

As a union member, Heather is a strong advocate for workers' rights. She supports:

• Collective Bargaining: Promote policies that support union membership, stand up for workers during negotiations, and oppose "Right to Work" laws.

• Workplace Safety: Ensure strict enforcement of workplace safety standards.

• Fair Labor Standards: Advocate for fair wages, paid leave, and better working conditions for all workers, including those in emerging industries like cannabis.

​​

Healthcare Access and Equity

Heather's experience as a nurse informs her commitment to improving healthcare access and equity. She aims to:

• Expand Healthcare Access: Support policies that provide affordable healthcare options for all residents and address disparities in healthcare access for marginalized communities.

• Mental Health Services: Advocate for increased funding and support for mental health services, especially for frontline workers and those affected by trauma.

• Support for Healthcare Workers: Ensure fair compensation and support for healthcare workers, including protections for those dealing with PTSD and other work-related mental health issues.

​​