Jay Inslee is a fifth-generation Washingtonian who has lived and worked in urban and rural communities on both sides of the state. Governor Inslee worked his way through college and graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in economics before earning his law degree at Willamette University. He and his wife, Trudi, then moved to Selah, a small town near Yakima where they raised their three sons. Jay worked as an attorney and prosecutor.
Washington state is a national leader in the delivery of high-quality, lower-cost health care. Thanks to our successful implementation of the Affordable Care Act, more than 700,000 people are enrolled in new and more affordable health care plans. We’ve lowered our uninsured rate from 16 percent in 2013 to an all-time historic low rate of 6 percent. But health care coverage is only one piece of the governor's health care agenda. Gov. Inslee is working for better health, higher quality health care, lower costs, more transparency and a system that integrates mental health care and primary care.
The governor also recognizes that good health is affected by several factors, many of which are determined outside the doctor’s office. Factors like income, education and social supports all contribute to our citizens’ well-being. That’s why the state provides a range of human services to keep Washington families safe and secure. These services include everything from helping veterans enter the work force, to ensuring children don't go to school hungry.