FINAL BILL REPORT

SB 5558

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: Reinstating the authority of the department of social and health services and the health care authority to purchase interpreter services for applicants and recipients of public assistance who are sensory-impaired.

Senate Committee on Human Services, Reentry & Rehabilitation

House Committee on Human Services & Early Learning

House Committee on Appropriations

Background: Since 2012, the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) and the Health Care Authority (HCA) have had the statutory authority to purchase interpreter services on behalf of applicants and recipients of public assistance who are sensory-impaired.

In 2018, legislation was enacted that, in part, altered the procurement of spoken language services and allows spoken language interpreters to elect collective bargaining representation. This same legislation removed DSHS and HCA authority to purchase interpreter services on behalf of applicants and recipients of public assistance who are sensory-impaired.

Summary: The authority to purchase interpreter services on behalf of applicants and recipients of public assistance who are sensory-impaired rests with DSHS and HCA.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	49	0
House	95	1