Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research	BILL ANALYSIS
Health Care Committee

2ESSB 5291

Brief Description:  Requiring certain immunizations of staff and residents of long‑term care facilities.

Sponsors:  Senate Committee on Health & Long‑Term Care (originally sponsored by Senators Costa, Winsley, Franklin and Fraser).

Brief Summary of Second Engrossed Substitute Bill

$Long-term care facilities are required to offer access to immunizations to all residents and staff annually.

Hearing Date:  2/26/02

Staff:  Dave Knutson (786‑7146).

Background:

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend all persons 65 and older, and others in high risk groups be immunized annually for influenza and pneumococcal disease.  Several states require residents of nursing homes and other long‑term care facilities be offered immunization for these illnesses.

Summary of Bill:

Nursing homes, boarding homes, and adult family homes are required to offer access  to immunizations for pneumococcal disease and influenza to all residents and employees on an annual basis.  The vaccinations may be offered on‑site or elsewhere.  Long‑term care facilities are required to inform employees and residents verbally and in writing of the benefits of these vaccinations.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Available.

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