Legislative Priorities
If elected, on day one I would start working towards various priorities for my time as a legislator. If you want to know what I support and why, start here. If you feel there is a topic that I've missed, feel free to contact me.
Priorities at a Glance
Houselessness
No person should have to be unhoused, and until we start coming up with long term solutions to fix this issue, as well as plans to implement the solutions, hundreds of Lawrence citizens will continue to face houselessness in Lawrence.
Abortion Rights
In 2022, Kansas voters overwhelmingly voted in favor of keeping abortion legal in Kansas. And yet, Republicans in the House and Senate continue to try to pass legislation that would take away this fundamental right away from the Women of Kansas. This is an outrageous violation of the voice of the people of Kansas.
Gun Reform
No person should have to fear that they would make themselves a target of a violent crime, just by walking down the street, going to school, or attending a Superbowl parade. It's time that we enact common-sense gun laws to protect the people of Kansas.
Marijuana Legalization
More than 2/3 of Kansas polled were in support of legalizing recreational marijuana, including nearly half of those polled said they strongly support legalization. With more than two thirds of Kansas supporting legalization, it seems to be a no-brainer in supporting legalization.
Education
In the last few years, multiple Lawrence schools were closed, forcing children to learn while cramped into classrooms. This increase in number of students per classroom comes along side no increase in pay for teachers. We can do better for both the teachers and the young minds that they are teaching.
Environmental Protection
Prioritizing renewable energy, investing in green technology, and implementing policies to combat climate change are crucial. Our focus must be on protecting our air, water, and natural resources, fostering sustainable practices for a healthier, more resilient planet for future generations.
Mental Health Services
Mental Health Services: Prioritizing accessible mental health services is paramount. We must invest in community resources, increase funding for mental health programs, and reduce stigma to ensure everyone has access to the support and treatment they need. Promoting mental wellness enhances overall well-being and strengthens communities.
Small Business Support
Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. Prioritizing tax incentives, access to capital, and reduced regulatory burdens is crucial. Strengthening these enterprises fosters innovation, creates jobs, and drives local economic growth, benefiting communities across the board.
Houselessness
Humanitarian Imperative:
At its core, addressing houselessness is a matter of basic human rights and dignity. No one should be forced to live on the streets or in unsafe and unstable conditions. By providing housing and support services to individuals experiencing homelessness, we can uphold our shared values of compassion and empathy and ensure that all Kansans have access to the resources they need to thrive.
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Root Causes and Systemic Inequities:
Houselessness is often the result of a complex interplay of factors, including poverty, lack of affordable housing, mental illness, substance abuse, and systemic inequities. Addressing homelessness requires addressing these root causes and implementing holistic and sustainable solutions. This may involve increasing affordable housing options, expanding access to mental health and substance abuse treatment, and addressing systemic barriers to economic opportunity and social mobility.
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Collaborative Approach:
Effectively addressing houselessness requires a collaborative and coordinated approach that involves government agencies, non-profit organizations, businesses, and community stakeholders. By working together, we can leverage our collective resources and expertise to develop and implement innovative solutions that meet the diverse needs of individuals experiencing homelessness. This may include initiatives such as housing-first approaches, rapid rehousing programs, and supportive housing models that provide wraparound services to address the underlying causes of homelessness.
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Economic Impact:
Addressing homelessness is not only a moral imperative but also makes economic sense. Studies have shown that investing in homelessness prevention and housing stability can lead to significant cost savings by reducing the burden on emergency services, healthcare systems, and criminal justice systems. By investing in solutions to homelessness, we can create a more efficient and sustainable system that benefits all members of our community.
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