SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5693

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.

As of February 6, 2015

Title: An act relating to reducing the costs of state health care expenses for residents committed to the special commitment center operated by the department of social and health services.

Brief Description: Authorizing the department of social and health services special commitment center to seek eligibility and reimbursement for health care costs covered by federal medicare, medicaid, and veterans health benefits.

Sponsors: Senators Miloscia, Darneille, Fraser and O'Ban; by request of Department of Social and Health Services.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Human Services, Mental Health & Housing: 2/05/15.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES, MENTAL HEALTH & HOUSING

Staff: Kevin Black (786-7747)

Background: The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) operates the Special Commitment Center on McNeil Island and two secure community transition facilities which house persons who have been committed by superior court as sexually violent predators. DSHS is responsible for providing medical care, either directly or by arrangement with other public or private agencies, for residents who are committed to these facilities.

A sexually violent predator is a person who has been convicted of or charged with a crime of sexual violence and who suffers from a mental abnormality or personality disorder which makes the person likely to engage in predatory acts of sexual violence if not confined in a secure facility.

Summary of Bill: DSHS may act on behalf of a resident who is civilly committed as a sexually violent predator for the purpose of applying for Medicare and Medicaid benefits, veteran's health benefits, or other health care benefits or reimbursement available as a result of participation in a health care exchange under the Affordable Care Act.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 2, 2015.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This is a good little bill to help with our budget deficit. Residents on McNeil Island sometimes have to go off island for medical care. In the past the state has paid 100 percent of the cost of these services, but there is an avenue to access federal funds. The state will save money.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Miloscia, prime sponsor; John Clayton, DSHS Juvenile Justice and Rehabilitation Administration.