2097‑S AMH SHER HAGE 5

SHB 2097 ‑ H AMD 235 WITHDRAWN 2-13-96

By Representative Sherstad

     On page 6, after line 15, insert:

     "(16) To adopt rules pursuant to chapter 34.05 RCW setting forth the requirements in RCW 70.47.160(3).  Rules adopted shall  ensure that no employer, health care provider, health carrier, health plan, or person be required to purchase, provide, or participate in any specific insurance benefit that directly reimburses, compensates, or otherwise pays for the performance of a specific service if the employer, health care provider, health carrier, health plan, or person objects to doing so for reason of conscience or religion."

EFFECT:  Requires the Health Care Authority Administrator to establish by rule a mechanism to recognize the right of individuals and organizations with a religious or moral tenet opposed to a specific service while not denying enrollees timely access to services covered in the Basic Health Plan.