SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 2158

BYRepresentatives Rasmussen, Schoon, H. Sommers, Locke, P. King, Wineberry, Winsley, Ferguson, Heavey, Fraser and Vekich

Including comprehensive cancer center in the definition of a health care facility.

House Committe on Health Care

Senate Committee on Health Care & Corrections

Senate Hearing Date(s):March 28, 1989

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators West, Chairman; Smith, Vice Chairman; Amondson, Johnson, Wojahn.

Senate Staff:Don Sloma (786-7414)

                  March 28, 1989

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE & CORRECTIONS, MARCH 28, 1989

BACKGROUND:

The Washington Health Care Facilities Authority was created in 1974 to assist in the building of health care facilities through the issuance of tax exempt bonds.  The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center (FHCRC) plans to build a new facility in the Lake Union area in Seattle.  To obtain the construction funds, the FHCRC plans to issue tax exempt bonds through the authority.  A major function of the new facility will involve basic science research.  There is a question as to whether or not such functions fall within the definition of "health care facility" in the act (RCW 70.37.020(3)).

SUMMARY:

To permit the FHCRC to receive tax exempt bonding authorization for the new facility, language is added to the definition of "health care authority" to include "research and support activities."

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested February 22, 1989

Senate Committee - Testified: Representative Marilyn Rasmussen, prime sponsor (pro); Bruce Johnston, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center (pro); Randy Main, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center (pro); John Van Gorkom, Executive Director, Washington Health Care Facilities Authority