Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Health Care & Wellness Committee |
HCR 4404
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. |
Brief Description: Continuing the work of the joint select committee on health reform implementation.
Sponsors: Representatives Schmick, Cody, Hinkle and Frockt.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/7/11
Staff: Chris Cordes (786-7103).
Background:
Enacted in 2010, the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPAC Act), along with the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, provides for a wide variety of changes in health care and health insurance over the next several years.
Soon after enactment of the PPAC Act, the Governor's Health Care Cabinet began coordinating health reform efforts among the state agencies and convening work groups to assist the Cabinet in understanding the administrative and policy impacts. In addition, the Realization Committee, established in December 2009 by the Office of the Insurance Commissioner, has been functioning as a forum for the consideration of health insurance exchanges and insurance market reforms.
In 2010 the State Omnibus Operating Appropriations Act (Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 6444) established a Joint Select Committee on Health Reform Implementation (Joint Select Committee) to review policies related to health reform. The Joint Select Committee met four times during the 2010 legislative interim and formed three advisory groups on workforce, exchange and insurance reforms, and low-income coverage. In addition to receiving reports and recommendations from these advisory groups, the Joint Select Committee received updates and recommendations from other state agencies working on aspects of health reform, including the Governor's Office, the Office of the Insurance Commissioner, the Health Care Authority, and the Department of Social and Health Services.
The authorization for the Joint Select Committee expires June 30, 2011.
Summary of Bill:
The Joint Select Committee on Health Reform Implementation (Joint Select Committee) is continued. The Joint Select Committee will continue to be co-chaired by the chairs of the health committees of the House and Senate. The leadership of the two largest caucuses of the House and Senate will each appoint two additional legislators to serve on the Joint Select Committee.
The co-chairs may direct the formation of advisory committees to focus on specific topic areas, including insurance regulation, access and expansion of public and private programs, and workforce issues. Interested stakeholders and experts may be invited to advise the Joint Select Committee.
Participation in the Joint Select Committee is without compensation.
The Joint Select Committee expires on or before June 30, 2014.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.