2470-S.E AMS WEST S4177.1

ESHB 2470 - S AMD TO WM COMM AMD (S-4066.3/92)

By Senators West, Patterson and Wojahn

                                                   ADOPTED 2/16/92

    On page 64, after line 12 of the committee amendment, insert the following:

    "(9) $65,263 of the accident fund appropriation and $65,262 of the medical aid fund appropriation are provided solely to conduct a study investigating the problems and causes associated with assaults on state employees at eastern and western state hospitals.  The study will include, but not be limited to, the possible ameliorative actions of increased staffing levels, increased employee training, and physical plant improvements.  In the study, the department shall consult with state employees and their representatives, department of social and health services and hospital management, advocates for the mentally ill, patients or former patients of the state mental hospitals, persons with demonstrated expertise in managing assaultive and self destructive behavior, and others with an interest in this issue.  The department shall report back to the appropriate committees of the legislature regarding its findings and recommendations by December 31, 1993."