| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Health Care & Wellness Committee | |
HB 1489
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
Brief Description: Exempting volunteer hospice care centers from licensing requirements under chapter 18.20 or 70.128 RCW.
Sponsors: Representatives VanDeWege, Kessler, Warnick, Blake, Morrell and Lantz.
Brief Summary of Bill |
|
Hearing Date: 2/7/07
Staff: Chris Blake (786-7392).
Background:
Hospice care centers are homelike, noninstitutional facilities that provide symptom and pain
management to terminally ill individuals as well as emotional, spiritual and bereavement support
for individuals and their families. Hospice care centers must be licensed by the Department of
Health (Department) which maintains regulations relating to operating standards, staffing
requirements, residential care and rights, facility requirements, pharmaceutical services,
nutritional services, and laundry services. An organization that provides hospice care without
receiving compensation for its services is not required to obtain a license if it notifies the
Department of its volunteer status.
Boarding homes are facilities that provide housing and basic services, and assume general
responsibility for the safety and well-being of seven or more residents. The Department of Social
and Health Services (DSHS) is responsible for licensing and overseeing the operation of
boarding homes. The Department is responsible for the construction review and approval
process.
Adult family homes are facilities licensed to care for up to six individuals who need long-term
care. These homes provide room, board, laundry, necessary supervision, assistance with
activities of daily living, personal care, and nursing services if necessary. DSHS is responsible
for licensing adult family homes, which provide community-based residential care for elderly and
disabled individuals.
Summary of Bill:
Volunteer hospice care centers are exempt from boarding home and adult family home licensing
requirements.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.