This is the first installment in our new “Huskies on the Hill” Q&A series with UW Alumni serving in state government.
Today’s Q&A features State Representative Dawn Morrell, B.S., Nursing ’95, who represents the 25th Legislative District.
1. What motivated you to run for office?
I am a Registered Nurse. I testified on many health care related bills in Olympia and realized that the legislature needed more representatives that truly understood the health care “system.”
2. What are your legislative priorities this session?
Expanding Medicaid and implementing the Affordable Care Act.
3. What has been the biggest surprise and biggest disappointment for you so far this session?
I was disappointed that we could not pass legislation in the House to make sure that guns were not sold by private sellers to the mentally ill, juveniles and criminals. I am surprised that the Senate is still resisting Medicaid Expansion and implementing the Affordable Care Act. Our health care system is broken and we must move forward.
4. What do you think the long-term outlook is for Higher Education in our state?
I believe the State of Washington will continue to be a leader in the nation. As the downturn in the economy improves we will be able to invest more dollars in the system.
5. How do you spend your time when the legislature is not in session?
I work as a critical care nurse and have six grandchildren to keep me busy. I am a hiker and a traveler.
WATCH: Rep. Morrell’s 2013 Legislative Update to learn more about her work in Olympia.