SENATE BILL REPORT

2ESSB 5291

As Passed Senate, January 30, 2002

Title:  An act relating to immunizations at long‑term care facilities.

Brief Description:  Requiring certain immunizations of staff and residents of long‑term care facilities.

Sponsors:  Senate Committee on Health & Long‑Term Care (originally sponsored by Senators Costa, Winsley, Franklin and Fraser).

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Health & Long‑Term Care:  1/29/01, 2/14/01 [DPS].

Passed Senate:  3/10/01, 49-0; 1/30/02, 48-0.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG‑TERM CARE

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 5291 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

Signed by Senators Thibaudeau, Chair; Franklin, Vice Chair; Costa, Deccio, Fraser and Winsley.

Staff:  Rhoda Donkin (786‑7198)

Background:  The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend all persons 65 and older, and others in high risk groups be immunized annually for influenza and pneumococcal disease.  Several states require residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities be offered immunization for these illnesses.

Summary of Bill:  Nursing homes, boarding homes, and adult family homes are required to offer access  to immunizations for pneumococcal disease and influenza to all residents and employees on an annual basis.  The vaccinations may be offered on-site or elsewhere.  Long-term care facilities are required to inform employees and residents verbally and in writing of the benefits of these vaccinations.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Testimony For:  These vaccines save lives.  They should be available in any setting where the majority of people are at risk for dangerous repercussions from these diseases.

Testimony Against:  None.

Testified:  PRO:  Jerry Reilly, WHCA; Bruce Reeves, Senior Lobby; Ann Simons, Wyeth‑Ayerst.

House Amendment(s):  Long-term care facilities must provide access to flu vaccines to each resident.