SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5211

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.

Title: An act relating to prohibiting the use of live animals to practice invasive medical procedures in paramedic training programs.

Brief Description: Prohibiting the use of live animals to practice invasive medical procedures in paramedic training programs.

Brief Summary of Bill

Requires all paramedic training programs to use only human-based training methods by July 1, 2022.

Background: Paramedics provide pre-hospital medical services including patient assessment, advanced cardiac life support with manual defibrillation, placement of multi lumen airways, administration of certain drugs, and other trauma related medical services. To receive paramedic certification from the Department of Health (DOH), an applicant must successfully complete a DOH approved paramedic training course, pass a DOH approved examination, and provide proof of association with an emergency medical services organization.

Summary of Bill: By July 1, 2022, all paramedic training programs training individuals in the medical treatment of humans must only use human-based training methods and may not use pigs or other lives animals. Human-based training includes the use of simulators or human cadavers.

The sum of $200,000, or as much thereof as may be necessary, is appropriated for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2020, from the general fund to the Michael K. Copass Paramedic Training Program at Harborview Medical Center to develop and produce simulator models for paramedic trainees and practicing paramedics in their initial and ongoing training.