Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Health & Human Services Appropriations & Oversight Committee |
HB 2648
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Removing the expiration for the additional surcharge imposed on registered nurses and licensed practical nurses.
Sponsors: Representatives Cody, Dickerson, Green and Kenney.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/31/12
Staff: Amy Skei (786-7109).
Background:
In 2006 legislation was enacted to establish a central nursing resource center (resource center). The Department of Health, in consultation with the Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission, issues grants to the resource center. The grants are supported by a surcharge of five dollars on the licensing fees of registered and licensed practical nurses. The surcharge and the statutory authority for the program expire on June 30, 2013.
The resource center conducts several activities related to the supply and demand for nurses in Washington, nursing programs, diversity in the nursing profession, patient safety and patient care, and the promotion of careers in nursing. The resource center was to report to the Legislature on its activities by November 30, 2011, and the Department of Health must review the effectiveness of the program by June 30, 2012.
Summary of Bill:
The expiration of the central nursing resource center surcharge applied to nursing license fees is removed.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.