The Columbian’s recommendation in the Oct. 14 editorial to “Vote ‘No’ on Initiative 1366,” is whole-heartedly supported by community health centers. The budget cuts that passage of I-1366 could create would likely cause serious harm to our patients at Sea Mar Community Health Centers. In combination with mandates to increase education and mental health services funding, I-1366 would put other essential services on the chopping block. Health care is often a target when legislators are forced to make cuts, and for many years the programs that support our patients were ravaged.
In the past two years, the state has made progress on health care through Medicaid expansion. Many Clark County residents finally have health care coverage, enabling them to take control of their lives. It would be devastating to see the rug pulled out from under them.
Tim Eyman’s efforts to meddle with the state Constitution are damaging to our health and should be rejected.