Submitted
Walker
The National Association of Social Workers-Indiana Chapter Political Action for Candidate Election Committee (NASW-IN PACE) has endorsed State Sen. Kyle Walker in his re-election campaign for Senate District 31.
The National Association of Social Workers is the largest professional organization of social workers in the United States.
“Your voting record reflects the values of our organization and the social work profession. We are proud to endorse candidates like you, who share our passion for providing high quality social services, mental health and health care access, and assistance for Hoosiers in need, as well as advancing civil rights,” said Laurie Weinzapfel, Chair of NASW-IN PACE and Beryl E. Cohen, Executive Director of NASW-IN in their endorsement letter. “We are pleased with your support of our profession and willingness to collaborate with us to make Indiana a better place for all Hoosiers.”
In 2021, Walker supported the two-year state budget that included funding for critical mental health programs including Recovery Works and Seriously Mentally Ill funding, as well as $100 million for mental health grants (HEA 1001). The budget also increased funding for food banks.
In 2022, Walker spearheaded bipartisan legislation to help Indiana foster youth access and afford a driver’s license and car insurance so they can successfully navigate adulthood (SEA 246). He also authored legislation to improve our 911 system and Emergency Response Services (SEA 247). Additionally, Walker supported legislation to get better data on suicide and drug overdoses in Indiana (SEA 84), and to improve telehealth services and help more Hoosiers access needed medical care (SEA 284).
“Expanding access to mental health care and supporting our vulnerable populations are important priorities for me,” Walker said. “I’ve been proud to author and support several pieces of legislation to address mental health needs for Hoosiers, improve our public health and emergency response systems, and support our youth. I’m grateful to our social workers and other health professionals who are on-the-ground making a difference in peoples’ lives. They will continue to have my support.”
Walker has been endorsed by several business, labor and professional organizations including the Indiana REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC), Indiana Builders Association Political Action Committee (PAC), NFIB Indiana PAC, Indiana Chamber of Commerce, Indy Chamber Business Advocacy Committee (BAC), Indiana AFL-CIO, Indiana State Pipe Trades Association and Plumbers, Pipefitters, and HVAC Service Technicians Local 502.
Walker has also been endorsed by several law enforcement and first responder organizations including the Indiana State Police Alliance, Indiana Fraternal Order of Police, Fishers Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 199, Lawrence Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 159, Indianapolis Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 86, Indiana Fire Chiefs Association and the Indiana Professional Firefighters PAC.
Walker’s district encompasses parts of Hamilton and Marion counties, including all of Fishers and part of Lawrence. For more information visit WalkerforIndiana.com.