Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Health Care & Wellness Committee

HB 2711

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: Increasing the availability of sexual assault nurse examiners.

Sponsors: Representatives McCabe, Walsh, Orwall, Cody, McBride, Caldier, Kilduff, Wylie, Senn, Smith, Gregerson, Tarleton, Ormsby, Pollet and Goodman.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires the Department of Health to study and make recommendations regarding the availability of sexual assault nurse examiners.

Hearing Date: 1/27/16

Staff: Jim Morishima (786-7191).

Background:

A sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) is a registered nurse specially trained to provide evidentiary examinations of victims of sexual assaults. Although there is no state-issued license or endorsement for a SANE, the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) grants SANE certification to registered nurses who:

The only facility that offers SANE training in the state is Harborview Medical Center.

Summary of Bill:

The Department of Health (DOH) must study the availability of SANEs throughout the state. The study must:

When identifying strategies for increasing the availability of SANEs, the DOH must consider remote training or remote consultation via electronic means, mobile teams of SANEs, and funding options.

When performing the study, the DOH must consult with experts on sexual assault victims' advocacy, experts on sexual assault investigation, and providers, including;

The DOH must report its findings and recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature by December 1, 2016.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 21, 2016.

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