FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 1837

C 309 L 03

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Authorizing certain fire protection districts to establish health clinic services.

Sponsors: By House Committee on Health Care (originally sponsored by Representatives Linville, Cody, Haigh, Schual-Berke, Santos, Morrell, Veloria and Chase).

House Committee on Health Care

Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care

Background:

Point Roberts, Washington, is bounded on three sides by water and shares a common border with Canada. While part of Whatcom County, residents must drive through two international borders to seek medical attention in the county's largest city, Bellingham. A group of local citizens has attempted to open a health clinic in conjunction with the local fire protection district to serve some of the health needs of area residents. The State Auditor's Office has indicated that the fire protection district does not have the statutory authority to assist with the operation of a health clinic.

Summary:

A fire protection district that shares a common border with Canada and is surrounded on three sides by water is authorized, to participate in the operation and maintenance of health clinics.

Votes on Final Passage:

House 92  0

Senate 49  0

Effective: July 27, 2003