Bill > SB5031

This bill establishes a new Council of Health Care Coordination for Youth and Adults in Facilities of Confinement within the Washington State Department of Health to address coordination and communication challenges related to healthcare for individuals in confinement settings. The council will be composed of voting members from various state agencies, including representatives from the departments of health, social and health services, corrections, and children, youth, and families, as well as a tribal representative, a member with lived experience in confined healthcare settings, and others. The council's primary responsibilities include reviewing current laws and policies regarding health information sharing among agencies housing confined individuals, making recommendations to improve data and information sharing, avoiding duplication of efforts, and creating an effective communication forum between state, local, and federal organizations. The council is required to meet at least quarterly, track health-related activities within their respective agencies, and submit an annual report to the governor and legislature by November 1st each year, assessing the effectiveness of their work and the adequacy of their resources. The bill recognizes that healthcare in correctional and confinement settings is crucial for public health and successful reentry of individuals into their communities.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5031&Year=2025&Initiative=false