SkillSource advocates for Economic Security Bill at Legislative Hill Climb

OLYMPIA - During the 2024 Legislative Day and Hill Climb, SkillSource, along with its executive team and over 35 partners from the Washington Workforce Association, traveled to Olympia to advocate for House Bill 2230, known as the Economic Security for All (EcSA) initiative. The bill recently passed the House and is now under Senate consideration.

EcSA aims to provide vital assistance to individuals in poverty, enabling them to pursue education and career paths leading to self-sufficiency. Among those benefiting from EcSA is Domenico Tedeschi, a SkillSource participant who utilized the program's support to cover tuition and living expenses while earning a nursing degree. Tedeschi, who received the Wenatchee Valley College President’s Medal and now works as an ICU RN at Confluence Health, shared his journey from Venezuela to the United States and how EcSA played a crucial role in his education and career.

During his visit to Olympia, Tedeschi met with Senator Judy Warnick, who commended his determination and presented him with copies of the Washington State and U.S. Constitution. SkillSource CEO Lisa Romine, Managing Director Susan Adams, and Communications Specialist Kelli Martinelli also participated in discussions with legislators, focusing on priority issues, including housing, childcare, and transportation. Romine and Tedeschi highlighted the significant impact of EcSA on its participants and communities in a House Hearing led by Representative Tana Senn.

The day's events culminated in an evening reception, where participants met Representative Keith Goehner and his wife, Lisa. Impressed by Tedeschi's story, Goehner invited him to speak at the Republican caucus the following morning, where he received a standing ovation.

The success stories emerging from EcSA, like Tedeschi's, underscore the importance of continued support for workforce initiatives that offer career guidance, training, and educational assistance to those facing poverty, language barriers, or skills gaps. These programs help individuals achieve economic self-sufficiency and contribute to a stronger workforce and improved community lives.