SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 1614

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.

Sponsors: House Committee on Early Learning & Human Services (originally sponsored by Representatives Dickerson, Rodne, Hope, Goodman, Walsh, Roberts, Green, McCoy, Blake, Kagi, Dunshee, Springer, Appleton, Seaquist, Johnson, Jinkins, Liias, Kelley, Rolfes, Maxwell, Van De Wege and Kenney).

Background: In 2007 legislation created the Washington Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Strategic Partnership Advisory Council as an advisory council to the Governor, Legislature, and the Secretary of the Department of Social and Health Services. The council is made up of a wide variety of individuals appointed by the Governor, including representatives from the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), Department of Health, an organization serving veterans, a Native American tribe in Washington State, individuals representing the psychology community, and people who have experience with issues related to causes of TBI.

The advisory council was tasked with developing a statewide plan to address the needs of individuals with TBI and to provide recommendations to the state on how to implement a comprehensive statewide information and referral system, a registry to collect data on individuals with TBI, and ways to provide services.

The Traumatic Brain Injury Account is funded by $2 of the fee imposed for certain traffic infractions. Money in the account may only be spent after appropriation and may be used only to provide a public awareness campaign and services relating to TBI, for information and referral, services, and for costs of required DSHS staff providing support to the Advisory council. The Secretary of DSHS has the authority to administer funds.

Summary of Bill: The composition of the advisory council is increased to include individuals with expertise working with children with TBI and a physician who has experience working with patients with TBI, and other new agency representatives.

The advisory council must revise the state plan to address the needs of individuals with TBI. A new report is required, identifying activities for implementation, information about how TBI impacts others, and the feasibility of establishing tribal agreements, among other features. The first report is due on January 15, 2013, and every two years thereafter.

DSHS is not required to provide a staffing plan for adequate support activities of the advisory council, secure funding for individuals suffering with TBI, expand support group services, establish training and outreach to first responders and emergency medial staff, or improve awareness of health insurance.

DSHS has the authority to accept and expend or retain any gifts, bequests, contributions or grants from private persons or private and public agencies to carry out the purpose of the chapter.