Tarra Simmons

Tarra Simmons is an American politician, attorney, civil rights activist, and former registered nurse currently serving as a member of the Washington State House of Representatives for District 23. As a member of the Democratic Party, Simmons has made significant contributions to legislative efforts focused on criminal justice reform, healthcare access, and social equity. Her personal experiences as a formerly incarcerated individual have shaped her advocacy and policy priorities, making her a notable figure in contemporary Washington politics.

Early life and career

Tarra Simmons was born in 1977 and grew up in Bremerton, Washington. Her early life was marked by challenges, including a period of incarceration that would later inform her advocacy work. Simmons pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Pacific Lutheran University in 2000. This background in nursing provided her with a foundation in healthcare, which would later influence her legislative focus on health-related issues.

After working as a registered nurse, Simmons transitioned to the legal field, attending Seattle University School of Law. She graduated magna cum laude in 2017, demonstrating academic excellence in her studies. During her time in law school, she was awarded the prestigious Skadden Fellowship, which supports public interest legal work. Simmons was recognized as the National Law Student of the Year by National Jurist, marking her as a standout student. The fellowship funded her efforts to provide civil legal assistance to low-income individuals recently released from incarceration in Kitsap County, underscoring her commitment to helping those affected by the criminal justice system.

Simmons faced significant hurdles in her legal career due to her past convictions. Initially denied the opportunity to sit for the Washington State bar exam because of her criminal record, she challenged this decision in the Washington State Supreme Court. The court ruled unanimously in her favor, allowing her to take the bar exam. She was sworn in as an attorney in Washington State on June 16, 2018, marking a significant milestone in her professional journey.

In addition to her legal practice, Simmons has been actively involved in advocacy for criminal justice reform. She was appointed by former Governor Jay Inslee to the Statewide Re-Entry Council, where she co-chaired efforts to improve reintegration for formerly incarcerated individuals. Her advocacy work has earned her recognition from various organizations, including the YWCA of Kitsap County and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Legislative service

Tarra Simmons entered the political arena when she was elected to the Washington House of Representatives in 2020, representing District 23-Position 1. Her election is notable as it is believed to be the first instance of a formerly incarcerated individual winning a legislative seat in the United States. Simmons has since been re-elected in 2022 and 2024, and she is currently campaigning for a fourth term.

In the legislature, Simmons serves on multiple committees, including Community Safety, Health Care and Wellness, Technology, Economic Development and Veterans, and Rules. She holds the position of Vice Chair for the Community Safety, Justice, & Reentry Committee and serves as the Deputy Speaker Pro Tempore. Her roles within these committees allow her to influence a wide range of legislative issues, particularly those related to public safety and health.

Simmons's legislative work has focused on several key areas, including improving affordability, expanding healthcare access, and enhancing voting rights for individuals with criminal records. She has sponsored and supported various pieces of legislation aimed at reforming the healthcare system, such as measures to strengthen hospital charity care requirements and reform the prior authorization process used by insurance companies. Additionally, she has advocated for mental health and substance abuse services to be covered at the same level as other medical care.

Another significant aspect of Simmons's legislative agenda has been the restoration of voting rights for individuals upon their release from incarceration. She has worked to reform how Washington State assesses and collects conviction-related fines, aiming to alleviate barriers faced by those reintegrating into society. Simmons has also been instrumental in the establishment of the state’s Independent Office of Behavioral Health Consumer Advocacy, which focuses on improving mental health services.

Simmons's commitment to public safety extends to police accountability and transparency. She has sponsored legislation aimed at preventing state and local law enforcement from hiring former Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers and establishing standards for the use of body cameras by police officers. Although some of her proposals, such as those related to resentencing processes, did not pass, they reflect her dedication to comprehensive criminal justice reform.

In addition to her advocacy for social justice, Simmons has also focused on economic issues. During discussions regarding a new state income tax on high earners, she worked to ensure that the legislation included tax relief for working families and sought to eliminate corporate tax breaks. Her efforts have resulted in securing over $100 million in capital budget investments for her district, with a focus on affordable housing and land conservation initiatives.

Policy focus and district

As a legislator, Tarra Simmons represents District 23, which encompasses parts of Washington State. Her policy focus is deeply influenced by her personal experiences and professional background. She has prioritized issues that affect marginalized communities, particularly those impacted by the criminal justice system. Simmons's advocacy for formerly incarcerated individuals is a central theme of her legislative work, as she aims to create a more equitable and just society.

Simmons's commitment to healthcare access is evident in her legislative initiatives aimed at improving services for underserved populations. She has worked to address workforce shortages in the nursing field and has advocated for higher standards in healthcare delivery. Her background as a nurse informs her understanding of the challenges faced by healthcare providers and patients alike.

In addition to healthcare and criminal justice reform, Simmons has been a strong advocate for mental health services. She recognizes the importance of addressing mental health issues as part of a holistic approach to public health and safety. Her legislative efforts have included measures to ensure that mental health and substance abuse treatment are prioritized within the broader healthcare system.

Simmons's work in the legislature reflects her dedication to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all residents of Washington State. Through her advocacy and policy initiatives, she continues to strive for meaningful change that addresses the needs of her constituents and promotes social justice. As she campaigns for re-election, her focus remains on improving the lives of individuals and families in her district, particularly those who have faced barriers due to incarceration or economic hardship.