SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1622
As of February 15, 2022
Title: An act relating to increasing the availability of sexual assault nurse examiner education in rural and underserved areas.
Brief Description: Increasing the availability of sexual assault nurse examiner education in rural and underserved areas.
Sponsors: Representatives Mosbrucker, Orwall, Duerr, Chase, Graham, Wicks, Johnson, J., Walen, Valdez, Bronoske, Callan, Davis, Goodman, Rule, Simmons, Kloba, Pollet, Maycumber, Jacobsen, Riccelli, Caldier, Chambers and Taylor.
Brief History: Passed House: 1/26/22, 97-0.
Committee Activity: Higher Education & Workforce Development: 2/17/22.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Requires the Washington State University College of Nursing to establish two programs—a sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) online and clinical training program, and a regional SANE leader pilot program. 
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Staff: Kellee Gunn (786-7429)
Background:

A sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) is a nurse specifically trained to provide evidentiary examinations of sexual assault victims.  SANEs provide medical assistance while also assessing, documenting, and preserving evidence for potential prosecutions.  There is no state-issued license or endorsement for a SANE.  The International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) grants SANE certification to nurses who:

  • complete training that meets the IAFN SANE Education Guidelines;
  • meet clinical practice requirements;
  • pass an examination; and
  • comply with ongoing training requirements.

 

The Office for Victims of Crime, a component of the Office of Justice Programs at the United States Department of Justice, maintains the SANE development and operation guide and provides federal grant funds to programs wishing to establish or expand SANE programs.  

 

The only current training provider in the state is the Harborview Center for Sexual Assault and Traumatic Stress in Seattle.
Summary of Bill:

Sexual Assult Nurse Examiner Online and Clinical Training Program.  The Washington State University (WSU) College of Nursing must establish a program to increase the availability of qualified SANEs in eastern Washington.  The program must include:

  • online training resources for nurses in rural and underserved communities to get access to at least 40 hours of didactic training;
  • a clinical training site on campus that includes the United States Department of Justice's clinical training requirements; and
  • scholarships for nurses to complete the online or clinical training.

 

WSU College of Nursing must report annually to the appropriate committees of the Legislature on the use and impact of the program.

 

Regional Sexual Assult Nurse Examiner Leader Pilot Program.  A regional SANE pilot program is established.  The regional lead shall:

  • establish the number of active sexual assault nurses in their communities;
  • report on the educational needs in their communities;
  • produce recommendations on how to best increase the number of SANEs in their communities; and
  • develop community-based action plans for SANE recruitment.

 

WSU College of Nursing shall develop and train lead SANEs and assist in the development of support mechanisms and role requirements for regional lead SANEs.  An annual report on the impact of the pilot program is due annually, with a final report due no later than January 1, 2026.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.