SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5071
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. |
As of February 2, 2011
Title: An act relating to providing licensed midwives online access to the University of Washington health services library.
Brief Description: Providing licensed midwives online access to the University of Washington health services library.
Sponsors: Senators Murray, Pflug, Keiser, Conway, Kline, Parlette and Roach.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Higher Education & Workforce Development: 2/02/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT |
Staff: Aldo Melchiori (786-7439)
Background: The license fees for physicians, physician assistants, osteopathic physicians, osteopathic physician assistants, naturopaths, podiatrists, chiropractors, psychologists, registered nurses, optometrists, mental health counselors, massage therapists, clinical social workers, and East Asian medicine practitioners include up to a $25 fee that is transferred to the University of Washington. The fee is used to fund online access to selected vital clinical resources, medical journals, decision support tools, and evidence-based reviews to these health care professionals. There are currently 109 licensed midwives who pay an annual licensing fee of $500.
Summary of Bill: As part of their licensing fees, midwives must pay an additional annual fee of up to $25 to fund online access to the University of Washington Health Services Library.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
[OFM requested ten-year cost projection pursuant to I-960.]
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: An identical bill was considered last year and passed out of the Senate with a unanimous vote. It is important for midwives to have access to evidence-based research and publications. All health professions should be included. This will help midwives provide better care.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Lori Bielinski, Washington State Chiropractic Assoc.; Carey Morris, Washington Assoc. for Marriage and Family Therapy; Amber Ulvenes, Audrey Levine, Midwife Assoc. of Washington State; Melanie Stewart, American Massage Therapy Assoc./Washington Chapter.