Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Early Learning & Human Services Committee |
HB 1880
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: Requiring chemical dependency treatment programs certified for assessment services to use a validated assessment tool.
Sponsors: Representatives Kagi, Goodman, Walsh, Orwall, Moeller, Jinkins, Roberts and Kenney.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/15/11
Staff: Linda Merelle (786-7092).
Background:
Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery Services.
The Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery Services licenses treatment providers for the evaluation and treatment of persons who have alcohol and other drug use disorders, including chemical dependency. After an assessment or evaluation is performed, appropriate chemical dependency treatment may be in the form of individual or group counseling. Treatment may be provided through outpatient or residential (inpatient) services.
Many persons who seek an evaluation to determine whether they require chemical dependency treatment have been ordered to do so by a court. An assessment performed by a chemical dependency professional will identify the severity of a substance abuse problem and contain a recommendation for the appropriate level of treatment. The level of treatment may range from an 8-hour class to a 2-year treatment program.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Institute.
The University of Washington established the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Institute (Institute) in 1973 as an interdisciplinary research center. The Institute conducts and supports substance abuse research at the University of Washington and disseminates its findings. The activities of the Institute include multidisciplinary research by Institute researchers supported through federal, state, and other grants and contracts, as well as the stimulation and support of alcohol and drug-related research by faculty and researchers in departments throughout the University of Washington. The Institute disseminates its research findings through its Library and Information Service, publications, and presentations. Through its Library and Information Service, the Institute provides a compilation of alcohol and drug abuse assessments that have proven research validity and clinical utility.
Summary of Bill:
Under this bill, a treatment program certified by the Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery Services for assessment services must use one of the validated assessment tools recommended by the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Institute established by the University of Washington. The tools must be validated for the type of assessment to be provided and must be validated for adults or youth, as appropriate.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on February 13, 2011.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.