SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5903

As Passed Senate, March 14, 2001

Title:  An act relating to increasing the license surcharge for the impaired physician program.

Brief Description:  Changing physician license fees.

Sponsors:  Senators Winsley, Franklin, Costa and Thibaudeau.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Health & Long‑Term Care:  2/19/01 [DP].

Passed Senate:  3/14/01, 44-5.

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:  Joan K. Mell (786‑7447)

Background:  Medical physicians are licensed by the state through the Department of Health.  A special account exists for the impaired physician program, which serves physicians experiencing substance abuse problems.  This account is funded through a surcharge on the physician's licensing fee.  Currently the surcharge is $25.

Summary of Bill:  The surcharge to fund the impaired physician account is changed to not less than $25 and not more than $35.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 15, 2001.

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

Testimony For:  Increased fees are needed to add services for the stress impaired physician in addition to services currently provided for physicians impaired by substance abuse.

Testimony Against:  None.

Testified:  Carl Nelson, WSMA (pro).