SENATE BILL REPORT
2SHB 1242
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
As Reported By Senate Committee On:
Health & Long-Term Care, March 21, 2007
Title: An act relating to a voluntary adult family home certification program.
Brief Description: Creating a voluntary adult family home certification program.
Sponsors: House Committee on Appropriations (originally sponsored by Representatives Morrell, Hinkle, Cody, Takko, Curtis, Blake, Campbell, Green, Alexander, Moeller, Wallace, Roberts, Conway, Kenney, Ormsby, Darneille, Simpson, McDonald and Schual-Berke).
Brief History: Passed House: 3/06/07, 96-1.
Committee Activity: Health & Long-Term Care: 3/19/07, 3/21/07 [DP, w/oRec].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE
Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by Senators Keiser, Chair; Franklin, Vice Chair; Pflug, Ranking Minority Member; Fairley, Kastama, Kohl-Welles, Marr and Parlette.
Minority Report: That it be referred without recommendation.Signed by Senator Carrell.
Staff: Rhoda Donkin (786-7465)
Background: Adult Family Home providers currently are required to complete a basic training course approved by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). Providers who were licensed after September 1, 2001, must complete at least 320 hours of successful, direct care giving experience obtained after 18 years of age. Providers applying for a license after January 1, 2007 must complete a department-approved 48-hour Adult Family Home administration and business planning class.
Summary of Second Substitute Bill: A voluntary certification program through the University of Washington Geriatric Education Center is available to Adult Family Home Providers in addition to the existing minimum requirements for state licensure. The voluntary certification program will include 52 hours of class requirements covering physical and mental health conditions that can be prevented, postponed, or alleviated by health promotion activities. Individuals successfully completing the voluntary program will be issued a certified Adult Family Home license by the DSHS.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This will expand the opportunity for increased education on the complex issues surrounding geriatric care. The Adult Family home industry will benefit from access to this education.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Janet Rhode, Washington State Residential Council of Adult Family Homes; Michael Vitiello, University of Washington, Northwest Geriatric Education Center.