BILL REQ. #:  S-1373.1 

Read first time 02/04/09.   Referred to Committee on Health & Long-Term Care.

     AN ACT Relating to increasing annual immunization rates; adding a new section to chapter 43.70 RCW; and declaring an emergency.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   A new section is added to chapter 43.70 RCW to read as follows:
     (1) It is the intent of the legislature to promote positive health outcomes for the children of the state by transferring to local health jurisdictions those funds appropriated to the department of health for the purpose of administering immunization protection to the citizens of the state.
     (2) Funds transferred to local health jurisdictions are for the purpose of purchasing vaccines, promoting the use of immunization protection for the reduction of diseases that may be prevented by vaccines and educating health care providers and patients regarding their use.
     (3) It is the goal of the legislature that the department of health and local health jurisdictions work collaboratively to ensure that immunization rates are increased annually. Local health jurisdictions are encouraged to collaborate with local providers and nonprofit organizations to achieve this goal.
     (4) Funds from the department of health for the purposes described in this section shall be transferred effective July 1, 2009.
     (5) Beginning on July 1, 2011, and each year thereafter, local health jurisdictions shall report to the department of health and the legislature, the immunization rates for the preceding year. Local health jurisdictions shall also include in this report a description of measures taken to improve immunization rates.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately.