HB 2711 - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 1ST SUB)

Provides that, in addition to the licensing fee for health care professionals licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW, the department shall impose an additional surcharge of five dollars per year on all initial licenses and renewal licenses issued under this chapter.

Authorizes the department to use the proceeds from the surcharge to contract with an organization to conduct the following activities: (1) Maintain information on the current and projected supply and demand of nurses through the collection and analysis of data regarding the nursing work force including but not limited to education level, employment settings, and nursing positions.

(2) Facilitate partnership between the nursing community and other health care providers, business and industry, consumers, legislators, and educators to achieve policy consensus, promote diversity within the profession, and enhance nursing career mobility and nursing leadership development.

(3) Evaluate the effectiveness of nursing education and articulation among programs to increase access to nursing education and enhance career mobility.

(4) Provide consultation, technical assistance, data, and information related to Washington state and national nursing resources.

(5) Promote initiatives to ensure a safe, healthy, and respectful workplace environment for nurses.

(6) Promote a positive image of the nursing profession and educate the public including students in K-12 about careers in nursing.