Brief Description: Requiring applicants for state purchased health care benefits or uncompensated hospital care to identify the employer of the proposed beneficiary of the benefits or care.

Sponsors: Representatives Conway, Wood and Sells.

Hearing Date: 2/15/05

Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).

Background:

Many employers choose not to provide health care benefits for their employees. These employees either go without health insurance, apply for state purchased health care programs supported with public funds, or seek uncompensated care at hospitals.

Summary of Bill:

People applying for state purchased health care benefits or uncompensated care at a hospital will identify their employer or the employer of the proposed beneficiary of the health care benefits. The Department of Social and Health Services, the Health Care Authority, and the Department of Health will provide a report identifying all reported employers to the appropriate committees of the Senate and House of Representatives by February 1 of each year.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 9, 2005.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.