| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Health Care & Wellness Committee | |
SB 6421
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: Providing medical coverage for smoking cessation programs.
Sponsors: Senators Pridemore, Keiser, McDermott, Hatfield, Kohl-Welles and Pflug.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/25/08
Staff: Chris Blake (786-7392).
Background:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 45.3 million people smoke
cigarettes in the United States. The CDC has labeled cigarette smoking the leading preventable
cause of death in the United States, accounting for approximately one out of every five deaths
annually, or approximately 438,000 people.
The Department of Social and Health Services (Department) provides coverage for smoking
cessation counseling for pregnant women. The coverage applies during pregnancy through two
months after giving birth. The coverage includes providing information and assistance to help
the client stop smoking and may include prescriptions for pharmaceutical products upon
attaining prior authorization.
Summary of Bill:
The Department must provide a smoking cessation benefit to adults enrolled in the medical
assistance and medical care services programs. The benefit must cover smoking cessation
counseling services and prescription and nonprescription medications to promote smoking
cessation. Prior authorization is not required to receive counseling services or medications. The
Department may implement rules regarding appropriate coverage limitations as necessary to
discourage waste or address instances of fraud.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.