Speakman: Where I stand, and why I'm running for District 68 seat

Posted 1/16/19

Serving in the Rhode Island General Assembly brings overlapping responsibilities: representing the people of District 68, and working collaboratively with the other representatives on policies that …

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Speakman: Where I stand, and why I'm running for District 68 seat

Posted

Serving in the Rhode Island General Assembly brings overlapping responsibilities: representing the people of District 68, and working collaboratively with the other representatives on policies that will benefit all Rhode Islanders.

My commitment to the residents of Bristol and Warren is to approach this work with transparency, honesty and integrity. I will keep you informed, seek your input, and consider the impact of proposals in the General Assembly on our communities.

Education is important to all of us. The low performance scores in our schools require immediate analysis and quick, thoughtful action. I will work to ensure fair and full state funding for our schools, early childhood education, and professional development. I will advocate for a state tax policy that allows us to address our over-reliance on local property taxes.

Rhode Island’s coast is one of our most important economic assets; it is a source of artistic inspiration, recreation, and enjoyment for residents and visitors alike. I will prioritize environmental policies that protect our communities from the impact of climate change and that address marine pollution by reducing the use of plastics and keeping contaminants out of our waters.

Thoughts and prayers are not enough to address the epidemic of gun violence in our country. We can do our part here in Rhode Island to save lives with a multifaceted approach: banning high capacity magazines, civilian access to military grade weapons, and guns in schools; while ensuring that our behavioral health system has the resources to identify and address the needs of those who are at risk.

As a woman who grew up before the Roe v. Wade decision, I am acutely aware of the harm caused by restrictions on reproductive choice. I strongly support the codification of Roe v. Wade by the General Assembly. I am also acutely aware of how pay inequity and sexual harassment in the workplace can harm a woman’s career and ability to earn a salary to support herself and her family. We have made progress on these issues -- but there is still work to be done.

Small business and the marine industries are the backbone of our local economy. We need a regulatory environment that allows these businesses to develop and flourish, and a tax environment that does not place unfair burdens on them.

We all know someone who has been affected by a substance use disorder. We have made progress in reducing overdose rates, but much more must be done to truly support recovery for individuals and communities. We must end the failed ‘War on Drugs’, and instead provide funding for evidence-based interventions, including medication-assisted treatment, as well as recovery services and supports that reflect the chronic nature of this treatable condition.

If given the opportunity to serve District 68 in the State House, I will meet with you, listen to your concerns, do my research, and always act with integrity and honesty. That’s my commitment to the residents of Bristol and Warren. I humbly ask for your vote in this Special Election.

June S. Speakman

Warren

Ms. Speakman is a Democratic candidate for House of Representatives, District 68. She lives in Warren.

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