About Mike Kreidler — Washington State Insurance Commissioner
A Public Servant:
Mike Kreidler has more than 25 years experience in public service. Serving in the Washington State Legislature for sixteen years, he distinguished himself in matters related to health care and the environment. Through his leadership, major legislation was enacted dealing with generic drugs, respite care, HIV/AIDS, health care cost containment, foster care, day care and the natural death act.
A Member of the US Congress:
As a freshman in Congress, Mike won a coveted seat on the House Energy and Commerce Committee. He was actively involved in matters addressing health care, access, affordability and quality.
Serving the Northwest:
Washington Governor Mike Lowry appointed Mike to the Northwest Power Planning Council in January 1995, and in January 1997 he was re-appointed by Governor Gary Locke. The Council, an agency of the four northwest states, is charged by the Northwest Power Act of 1980 to address fish and wildlife impacted by dams in the Columbia River Basin, while also providing the region a reliable electric power supply.
Health Administration:
President Clinton, in July 1998, appointed Mike to the position of Regional Director of Region 10, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In the state of Washington, he actively urged the state's participation in the Children's Health Insurance Program that expanded health insurance coverage for children. In 1999, the state applied and was granted participation in the program.
A Health Care Provider:
Mike earned a Doctor of Optometry degree from Pacific University in Oregon and a master's degree in public health from UCLA. As an optometrist, he worked for 20 years for Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound in Olympia.
Mike was elected Washington State Insurance Commissioner in 2000, and re-elected in 2004.
A Washington native:
He is a retired Lieutenant Colonel with 25 years of active and reserve service for the Army. He and his wife, Lela, have three children and live in Lacey.
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