FINAL BILL REPORT

SSB 5913

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.

PARTIAL VETO

C 558 L 09

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Concerning online access to the University of Washington health sciences library by certain health care providers.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care (originally sponsored by Senators Pflug, Keiser and Shin).

Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care

House Committee on Health Care & Wellness

Background: In 2007 legislation increased annual licensure fees for health care professions by $25. The money was directed to be transferred to the University of Washington (UW) to provide online access to the school's Health Sciences Library.

By January 1, 2009, licensed health care practitioners were to have access to selected vital clinical resources, medical journals, decision support tools, and evidence-based reviews of procedures, drugs, and devices. These practitioners included physicians, osteopathic physicians, physician assistants, naturopaths, podiatrists, chiropractors, psychologists, registered nurses, optometrists, mental health counselors, massage therapists, clinical social workers, and acupuncturists.

Summary: The University of Washington must provide an accounting of the use of the funds paid under the online access program and inform the legislative health care committees by December 1 every year.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate

47

0

House

98

0

(House amended)

Senate

48

0

(Senate concurred)

Effective:

July 26, 2009

Partial Veto Summary: The Governor vetoed the requirement that the Department of Health convene a user advisory group to review the online access program and make recommendations for improving the program.