FINAL BILL REPORT
SHB 2021
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. |
C 161 L 15
Synopsis as Enacted
Brief Description: Concerning the prescription drug assistance foundation.
Sponsors: House Committee on Health Care & Wellness (originally sponsored by Representatives Riccelli, Parker, Cody, Holy, Ormsby and Muri).
House Committee on Health Care & Wellness
Senate Committee on Health Care
Background:
In 2005 the Prescription Drug Assistance Foundation (Foundation) was established as a nonprofit corporation. It is governed by a board of directors appointed by the Governor. Its purpose is to assist qualified uninsured individuals in obtaining prescription drugs at little or no cost. Among other things, it assists patients with accessing free programs provided by drug companies and assists with prior authorization forms.
A "qualified uninsured individual" is an uninsured person who is a Washington resident and who has an income below 300 percent of the federal poverty level. "Uninsured" means a person who lacks health insurance coverage including prescription drugs. "Health insurance coverage including prescription drugs" means prescription drug coverage under a private insurance plan, Medicaid, Medicare, the state Children's Health Insurance Program, the Basic Health Plan, or any employer-sponsored health plan that includes a prescription drug benefit.
The Foundation is authorized to receive, solicit, contract for, collect, and hold in trust donations, gifts, grants, and bequests. It may use all sources of public and private funding to support its activities, but funds from the State General Fund may not be used for its ongoing operation.
Summary:
For purposes of the Prescription Drug Assistance Foundation (Foundation), a "qualified uninsured individual" is an uninsured or underinsured person whose income meets financial criteria established by the Foundation. "Underinsured" is defined as an individual who has health insurance coverage that includes prescription drugs, but for whom the prescription drug coverage is inadequate for his or her needs. The definition of "health insurance coverage including prescription drugs" includes a plan offered through the Health Benefit Exchange.
Votes on Final Passage:
House | 98 | 0 | |
Senate | 48 | 0 |
Effective: | July 24, 2015 |