Bill > HB1824

This bill modifies existing Washington state law regarding inspections of accredited birthing centers by establishing a new process for state oversight. Under the proposed changes, a birthing center that is accredited by a recognized accrediting body may be exempt from a full state licensure survey if three specific conditions are met: (1) the department determines that the accrediting body's survey standards are substantially equivalent to state requirements, (2) an on-site survey by the accrediting body has been conducted within the previous 36 months, and (3) the department receives copies of the latest survey report demonstrating compliance with licensure requirements. The bill preserves the department's authority to conduct surveys in service areas not addressed by the accrediting body and allows for validation surveys on up to 10 percent of accredited birthing centers. Importantly, the legislation directs the department to interpret accreditation standards liberally and requires detailed notifications if substantial equivalency is not found. The bill maintains the department's initial licensing and enforcement authority, ensuring consumer protection remains a priority while potentially reducing duplicative inspection processes for birthing centers.

Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1824&Year=2025&Initiative=false