2024 legislative review
health care
When it came to health care , AWB and employers played defense for much of the legislative session . A number of bills were introduced that would have increased the cost of care and decreased consumer choice in the health care marketplace . These bills ultimately failed to become law , but not without a fight .
The biggest battle was over Senate Bill 5241 , which purported to protect access to care but in actuality would have done the opposite . The bill , known as the Keep Our Care Act , would have put hospital mergers that might limit care under the review of the attorney general . In doing so , it would have made it difficult for struggling hospitals to get help from larger systems that could rescue them or improve their operations . The hospitals might have to shut down , which would result in entire communities , especially small , rural communities , losing access to critical health care services . In addition , the way the bill was written meant it included not only hospitals , but also other providers , including chiropractors , massage therapists and behavioral health professionals . Each chamber typically saves a controversial bill for the last piece of legislation debated on cutoff day , and SB 5241 was the 5 o ’ clock bill in the House this session . AWB joined health care organizations in opposing the bill , which ultimately did not pass the House .
House Bill 2361 also would have threatened access to care by requiring that health carriers offer only standardized plans on the Washington Health Benefit Exchange . The goal was to reduce costs and confusion , but it would ’ ve eliminated all non-standardized plans despite the fact that these plans may work better for some consumers . A non-standardized plan might have a higher monthly premium and a lower deductible , for example , and that might be more convenient for someone who goes to the doctor often and will hit their deductible quickly . In addition , there are a number of businesses that help consumers pick the right plan for them . The bill did not make it out of the House .
On the positive side , legislators helped address the health care workforce shortage in the state by approving bills that allow physician assistants and social workers to practice across state lines as part of interstate compacts . This not only helps these much-needed health care professionals start working more quickly after relocating to the state , but also improves access to care .
SB 5241 hospital mergers
Failed / AWB Opposed sponsor : Sen . Emily Randall , D-Bremerton
This bill aimed to regulate changes in the health care marketplace . It would have given the attorney general the power to approve or veto a proposed merger , effectively prohibiting any hospital merger in the state . Without the ability to merge , struggling hospitals might have to close and entire communities would lose their local hospitals and medical care providers . The bill passed the Senate and made it through committee in the House but failed to make it to the floor for a final vote .
HB 2361 standardized health plans
Failed / AWB Opposed sponsor : Rep . Marcus Riccelli , D-Spokane
This bill would have limited the plans available on the Washington Health Benefit Exchange to only standardized plans . While the bill aimed to lower costs for consumers and reduce confusion , it in fact would have eliminated plans that work better for some consumers and their families . The bill passed the House 58-39 but stalled in the Senate .
SB 5776 emergency insulin supply
Failed / AWB Opposed sponsor : Sen . Karen Keiser , D-Des Moines
This bill would have allowed eligible individuals to receive a one-time 30-day supply of emergency insulin from a pharmacy . The bill was modeled after a Minnesota program that is under review in a federal appeals court because of its requirement that drug manufacturers supply insulin without reimbursement . The bill received a hearing in the Senate
Committee on Ways & Means but did not advance .
SB 5940 medical assistant-emt certification
Passed / AWB Supported sponsor : Sen . Kevin Van De Wege , D-Sequim
This bill creates a medical assistantemergency medical technician ( EMT ) certification for individuals holding an EMT certification , an advanced EMT certification , or a paramedic certification . In doing so , it allows them to work in hospitals . Ultimately , it will increase job opportunities for EMTs while helping address the health care workforce shortage , particularly in rural areas .
HB 2295 hospital-at-home services
Passed / AWB Supported sponsor : Rep . Jessica Bateman , D-Olympia
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