Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Health Care & Wellness Committee

HB 1507

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: Requiring nursing homes to make the sodium content of meals available to residents.

Sponsors: Representatives DeBolt and Jinkins.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires nursing homes to identify the sodium content of each menu item and make the information available to residents.

Hearing Date: 2/6/15

Staff: Jim Morishima (786-7191).

Background:

A nursing home is a facility that provides continuous 24-hour convalescent and chronic care. Such care may include the administration of medications, preparation of special diets, bedside nursing care, application of dressings and bandages, and carrying out treatment prescribed by licensed health care providers.

Every nursing home must have a staff member trained or experienced in food management and nutrition who is responsible for planning menus and supervising meal preparation. The nursing home must:

Summary of Bill:

A nursing home must identify the sodium content of each menu item to be served and make the information available to residents at each meal.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

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