Wash. Rev. Code § 43.20.050
In fulfilling its responsibilities under this subsection, the state board may create ad hoc committees or other such committees of limited duration as necessary.
RCW 43.20.050
Explanatory statement- 2021 c 65: See note following RCW 53.54.030.
Effective date- 2009 c 495: "Except for section 9 of this act, this act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 14, 2009]." [2009 c 495 s 17.]
Findings-1993 c 492: "The legislature finds that our health and financial security are jeopardized by our ever increasing demand for health care and by current health insurance and health system practices. Current health system practices encourage public demand for unneeded, ineffective, and sometimes dangerous health treatments. These practices often result in unaffordable cost increases that far exceed ordinary inflation for essential care. Current total health care expenditure rates should be sufficient to provide access to essential health care interventions to all within a reformed, efficient system.
The legislature finds that too many of our state's residents are without health insurance, that each year many individuals and families are forced into poverty because of serious illness, and that many must leave gainful employment to be eligible for publicly funded medical services. Additionally, thousands of citizens are at risk of losing adequate health insurance, have had insurance canceled recently, or cannot afford to renew existing coverage.
The legislature finds that businesses find it difficult to pay for health insurance and remain competitive in a global economy, and that individuals, the poor, and small businesses bear an inequitable health insurance burden.
The legislature finds that persons of color have significantly higher rates of mortality and poor health outcomes, and substantially lower numbers and percentages of persons covered by health insurance than the general population. It is intended that chapter 492, Laws of 1993 make provisions to address the special health care needs of these racial and ethnic populations in order to improve their health status.
The legislature finds that uncontrolled demand and expenditures for health care are eroding the ability of families, businesses, communities, and governments to invest in other enterprises that promote health, maintain independence, and ensure continued economic welfare. Housing, nutrition, education, and the environment are all diminished as we invest ever increasing shares of wealth in health care treatments.
The legislature finds that while immediate steps must be taken, a long-term plan of reform is also needed." [ 1993 c 492 s 101.]
Intent-1993 c 492: "(1) The legislature intends that state government policy stabilize health services costs, assure access to essential services for all residents, actively address the health care needs of persons of color, improve the public's health, and reduce unwarranted health services costs to preserve the viability of nonhealth care businesses.
(2) The legislature intends that:
(a) Total health services costs be stabilized and kept within rates of increase similar to the rates of personal income growth within a publicly regulated, private marketplace that preserves personal choice;
(b) State residents be enrolled in the certified health plan of their choice that meets state standards regarding affordability, accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and clinical efficaciousness;
(c) State residents be able to choose health services from the full range of health care providers, as defined in RCW 43.72.010(12), in a manner consistent with good health services management, quality assurance, and cost effectiveness;
(d) Individuals and businesses have the option to purchase any health services they may choose in addition to those included in the uniform benefits package or supplemental benefits;
(e) All state residents, businesses, employees, and government participate in payment for health services, with total costs to individuals on a sliding scale based on income to encourage efficient and appropriate utilization of services;
(f) These goals be accomplished within a reformed system using private service providers and facilities in a way that allows consumers to choose among competing plans operating within budget limits and other regulations that promote the public good; and
(g) A policy of coordinating the delivery, purchase, and provision of health services among the federal, state, local, and tribal governments be encouraged and accomplished by chapter 492, Laws of 1993.
(3) Accordingly, the legislature intends that chapter 492, Laws of 1993 provide both early implementation measures and a process for overall reform of the health services system." [ 1993 c 492 s 102.]
Short title-Savings-Reservation of legislative power-Effective dates-1993 c 492: See RCW 43.72.910 through 43.72.915.
Severability-1992 c 34: See note following RCW 69.07.170.
Effective date-Severability-1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.
Savings-1985 c 213: "This act shall not be construed as affecting any existing right acquired or liability or obligation incurred under the sections amended or repealed in this act or under any rule, regulation, or order adopted under those sections, nor as affecting any proceeding instituted under those sections." [ 1985 c 213 s 31.]
Effective date-1985 c 213: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect June 30, 1985." [ 1985 c 213 s 33.]
Severability-1967 ex.s. c 102: See note following RCW 43.70.130.
Rules and regulations-Visual and auditory screening of pupils: RCW 28A.210.020.