SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5162

BYSenators Kreidler, Kiskaddon, Wojahn, Deccio and Johnson

Revising the uniform disciplinary act.

Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 21, 1987

Senate Staff:Scott Plack (786-7409)

AS OF JANUARY 16, 1987

BACKGROUND:

The Legislature passed the Uniform Disciplinary Act (UDA) in 1984 (Chapter 18.130 RCW).  The intent of the act is to strengthen and consolidate disciplinary procedures for the licensed health and health-related professions and businesses. It applies to the following health care professions: podiatry, chiropractic, dental hygiene, dentistry, acupuncturists, dispensing opticians, drugless healing, embalmers and funeral directors, physicians, midwifery, optometry, ocularists, osteopathic physicians, occupational therapists, physicians, physician assistants, physical therapists, practical nurses, registered nurses, veterinary medicine, and massage operators. Hearing aid dispensers, psychologists and nursing home administrators are not presently under the Uniform Disciplinary Act.

SUMMARY:

The proposal would place hearing aid dispensers, psychologists and nursing home administrators under the provisions of the Uniform Disciplinary Act.  The statutory authority of each of these professions is modified so the enabling statutes reflect their inclusion under the Uniform Disciplinary Act.

Fiscal Note:      requested