Brief Description: Concerning assisted care facilities.

Sponsors: Representatives Schual-Berke, Hinkle, Cody, Skinner and Moeller.

Hearing Date: 2/22/05

Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).

Background:

Boarding homes are facilities that provide housing and basic services, and assume general responsibility for the safety and well-being of residents. The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) is responsible for licensing and overseeing the operation of boarding homes. The Department of Health (Department) is responsible for the construction review and approval process.

Summary of Bill:

Authorizes a new category of boarding home to include an assisted care home for between seven and sixteen residents. Allows assisted care homes to care for residents with the same level of acuity as found in residents of adult family homes. The Department is required to coordinate its construction review process with DSHS to complete the construction review process as quickly as possible.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 17, 2005.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.