SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5359

As Passed Senate, March 10, 2001

Title:  An act relating to the health professions' use of pro tem board members.

Brief Description:  Modifying the health professions' appointment of pro tem members.

Sponsors:  Senators Thibaudeau, Winsley, Parlette and Franklin; by request of Department of Health.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Health & Long‑Term Care:  1/31/01, 2/8/01 [DP].

Passed Senate:  3/10/01, 48-0.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG‑TERM CARE

Majority Report:  Do pass.

Signed by Senators Thibaudeau, Chair; Franklin, Vice Chair; Costa, Deccio, Fraser, Parlette and Winsley.

Staff:  Chelsea Buchanan (786‑7446)

Background:  The Department of Health's  health professions boards and commissions may establish committees to assist with disciplinary and related proceedings.  Currently no more than three pro tem members may be appointed for one or more committees of these boards and commissions.

Concern exists about high case volumes and the cost of hiring specialists for these committees, prompting the request to appoint greater numbers of pro tem members.

Summary of Bill:  Health professions boards/commissions are given the ability to appoint multiple pro tem members to panels.  Appointments are limited to one year, and pro tem members may serve no more than four one-year terms.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

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

Testimony For:  Allowing additional pro tem members would help to alleviate the workload, resolve complaints more quickly, deal with conflicts of interest, and use specialists when needed.

Testimony Against:  None.

Testified:  Sue Shoblom, Department of Health (pro).