SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5693

As of February 19 2001

Title:  An act relating to medicinal and catheterization administration in public schools.

Brief Description:  Permitting school district employees to file medical letters of refusal.

Sponsors:  Senators Eide, Finkbeiner, Rasmussen, Hochstatter, Winsley and Kohl‑Welles.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Education:  2/19/01.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Staff:  Casey Bui (786‑7448)

Background:  Federal and state laws require the state to assure that appropriate special education and related services are provided to children with disabilities.

State law requires school districts and private schools to adopt policies on the administration of oral medication, or the provision of bladder catheterization, if schools provide this service for students during school hours.  School employees who are not licensed nurses or nursing assistants, but who provide oral medication or catheterization for students must receive training from a physician or registered nurse.

Summary of Bill:  Public school district and private school policies must address obtaining a written agreement of employees who are authorized to administer oral medications to students, as well as a means of maintaining a record of all written agreements.  When student safety is involved, nonlicensed school employees may file a written letter of refusal to administer oral medications to students or to perform bladder catheterization for students.  This letter of refusal may not constitute grounds for employee dismissal or termination of employment.  However, it may result in a reduction of work hours for the employee if the refusal results in a need to hire additional personnel to administer oral medications or catheterization.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on February 13, 2001.

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