HOUSE BILL REPORT

SB 5764

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 Reported by House Committee On:

Health Care & Wellness

Title: An act relating to changing the name of the medical quality assurance commission to the Washington medical commission.

Brief Description: Changing the name of the medical quality assurance commission to the Washington medical commission.

Sponsors: Senators Randall, Cleveland, Becker, Keiser and Wilson, C.; by request of Washington State Medical Commission.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:

Health Care & Wellness: 3/19/19, 3/27/19 [DP].

Brief Summary of Bill

Changes the name of the Medical Quality Assurance Commission to the Washington Medical Commission.

Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 14 members: Representatives Cody, Chair; Macri, Vice Chair; Schmick, Ranking Minority Member; Caldier, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Chambers, Davis, DeBolt, Harris, Jinkins, Riccelli, Robinson, Stonier, Thai and Tharinger.

Background:

The Medical Quality Assurance Commission (MQAC) licenses and regulates physicians and physician assistants. The MQAC consists of 21 members appointed by the Governor. Thirteen members of the MQAC must be licensed physicians, two members must be licensed physician assistants, and six members must be members of the public. All members must be United States citizens and residents of Washington. Physician members must have been licensed in Washington for at least five years.

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Summary of Bill:

The name of the Medical Quality Assurance Commission is changed to the Washington Medical Commission.

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Appropriation: None.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony:

(In support) This is a technical name-change bill. The bill emphasizes the seriousness of the medical profession and has no cost because the Medical Quality Assurance Commission has already rebranded itself.

(Opposed) None.