Brief Description: Allowing arbitration in long-term care facility disputes.

Sponsors: Representatives Williams, Rodne, Clements, Fromhold, Darneille, Clibborn, Lantz, Moeller, Condotta, Morris, Linville, B. Sullivan, Morrell, Ormsby, Schual-Berke, Cody, Pettigrew, Wood, Chase, Flannigan, Kretz, Newhouse, Buri, Ahern, Blake, Kessler, Campbell, O'Brien, Kenney, Santos and Kilmer.

Hearing Date: 2/22/05

Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).

Background:

Legislation was enacted in 1997 that prohibits long-term care facilities from requiring or requesting residents to sign a waiver of potential liability for losses of personal property or injury.

Summary of Bill:

Provides a statement of legislative intent that the prohibition against requiring or requesting residents of long-term care facilities to sign a waiver of potential liability or resident's rights does not prohibit such facilities from offering arbitration agreements to residents.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.