Free COVID-19 Tests In Washington Thanks To Kshama Sawant

As the spread of COVID-19 gains urgent attention in America, Washington State just announced that it would now be covering the costs of coronavirus tests of residents without health insurance.

The announcement was made on Thursday by Washington Governor Jay Inslee following a public call by an Indian American member of Seattle City council Kshama Sawant.

Sawant had written a letter to local Democratic officials that testing and care for COVID-19 should be free.

A big kudos to Kshama! Due to her efforts, the Washington governor announced that the state would ensure free testing for the uninsured.

Washington State has seen 70 confirmed cases of coronavirus so far. Sensing the urgency of the situation, the timely action by the state has been welcomed by residents.

“For the uninsured in our state, whose doctors believe they need testing, I am announcing that we have the authority and intention to cover those costs by the state of Washington,” Inslee said.

Coronavirus testing in the state would also be done without co-pays or deductibles, according to health officials.

On continuing her fight to ensure adequate health rights for all residents, Sawant informed that she would be working towards the need for guaranteed paid sick leave nationwide.

But almost immediately, she said that workers need to have paid leaves for COVID-19 quarantine.

“We will have to fight for this by making public demands,” Sawant said.