SB 5768-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

     Declares an intent to create a framework and process to involve the citizens of Washington state in the creation of a single financing entity called the Washington health security trust.  Through public hearings, research, and consensus building, the trust will accomplish the following goals: (1) Provide fair, simple, and accountable health care financing for all Washington residents using a single health care financing entity; (2) cover a comprehensive package of effective and necessary personal health services; (3) make health care coverage independent from employment; (4) eliminate excessive administrative costs resulting from the current fragmented system of multiple insurers; (5) generate savings sufficient to ensure coverage for all Washington residents; (6) integrate current publicly sponsored health programs into the health security trust; (7) preserve choice of providers for Washington residents; (8) protect patient rights; (9) keep clinical decisions in the hands of health professionals and patients, rather than administrative personnel; (10) promote health care quality; (11) control excessive health care costs, and (12) control excessive health care costs.

     Directs the legislature to increase taxes on tobacco to an amount no greater than total tobacco taxes in the province of British Columbia, Canada to subsidize state residents' health insurance coverage as provided in this act.  Any revenue generated from such increases shall be deposited in the health services account for the purposes of implementing this law and shall not be subject to the provisions of Initiative 601 or 695.

     Repeals RCW 82.04.260 and 48.14.0201.