Bill > HB1638

This bill, known as the Good Faith Pain Act, provides legal protection for various healthcare professionals (including podiatrists, dentists, osteopathic physicians, pharmacists, physicians, physician assistants, and advanced registered nurse practitioners) when prescribing or dispensing opioid medications for chronic pain patients. Specifically, these healthcare providers will not face criminal or civil liability, nor disciplinary action from their professional boards or departments, if they prescribe opioid drugs in good faith for legitimate medical purposes. The protection applies when the patient has been consulted, deems the opioid prescription medically appropriate, and signs a written informed consent that is documented in their medical records. The bill adds new sections to multiple chapters of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to ensure consistent protection across different healthcare professions. The legislation is declared an emergency measure, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage, with the stated purpose of preserving public health, safety, and supporting the state government and its institutions.

Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1638&Year=2025&Initiative=false