SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 1383

BYHouse Committee on Human Services (originally sponsored by Representatives Leonard and Lux)

Changing provisions relating to alcoholism treatment programs.

House Committe on Human Services

Senate Committee on Health Care & Corrections

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 23, 1988

Majority Report:  Do pass as amended.

      Signed by Senators Deccio, Chairman; Johnson, Vice Chairman; Kreidler, Niemi, Smith, Wojahn.

Senate Staff:Dee Knapp (786-7452)

                  February 24, 1988

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE & CORRECTIONS, FEBRUARY 23, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The Department of Social and Health Services certifies drug treatment centers and alcohol treatment facilities for rehabilitating persons suffering problems related to alcohol and drug abuse. The Department verifies documentation submitted by the treatment center relating to the qualifications of the staff who provide treatment, but the Department has no authority to evaluate the competency of alcohol or drug counselors individually as part of its responsibility for assuring the adequacy of care, treatment and rehabilitation.

SUMMARY:

The Secretary of the Department is given authority to enter into agreements for monitoring of verifications of qualifications of drug and alcohol counselors. In effect, the department will recognize certification of counselors as evidence of their competency.

SUMMARY OF PROPOSED SENATE AMENDMENTS:

The definition of an alcoholic is changed to reflect the disease aspects of alcoholism.  Licensed physician is defined.

Certain technical changes are made.  The court may take the testimony of a licensed physician by telephone.

The initial commitment period is extended from 30 days to 60 days.  Recommitment of 90 days is retained, but a second recommitment period of 90 days is eliminated.

Less restrictive care before the end of the commitment period is authorized as a condition of early release for a period that does not exceed the period of commitment.  If the person fails to adhere to the terms and conditions of such release a hearing shall be held unless waived to determine if the person should be returned to more restrictive care.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available

Senate Committee - Testified: Representative Leonard (for); Representative Brekke (for); Philip Showstead, King County (for); Linda Grant, Association of Alcoholic Drug Programs (for); Thelma Struck, Department of Social and Health Services (for)