Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5083

Introduced
1/13/25  
Refer
1/13/25  
Report Pass
2/11/25  
Refer
2/12/25  
Report Pass
2/27/25  
Engrossed
3/11/25  
Refer
3/13/25  
Report Pass
3/24/25  
Refer
3/27/25  
Enrolled
4/27/25  
Chaptered
5/20/25  

Caption

Ensuring access to primary care, behavioral health, and affordable hospital services.

Impact

If enacted, SB5083 is expected to have significant implications for state laws governing healthcare provision. The bill may lead to the establishment of new regulations that mandate healthcare facilities to offer a minimum standard of primary and behavioral health services, thereby expanding access for individuals who may not have had adequate resources previously. Additionally, it could provide incentives for healthcare providers to operate in areas with few services, addressing geographic disparities in healthcare availability. Advocates see this as a critical step toward equitable healthcare access for all residents.

Summary

SB5083 is a legislative measure aimed at ensuring access to essential healthcare services, including primary care, behavioral health, and affordable hospital services. The bill recognizes the importance of healthcare access as a fundamental right and seeks to create a framework that supports the availability of these services across the state. By acknowledging the varying needs of different communities, SB5083 is designed to bridge the gap in healthcare services, particularly in underserved areas where access is limited. This holistic approach aims to enhance the overall health and well-being of the population.

Contention

Despite its noble intentions, SB5083 may encounter resistance from stakeholders concerned about its implications for existing healthcare frameworks and funding. Critics may argue that the bill could result in increased financial burdens on hospitals and healthcare providers, potentially affecting the quality of services offered. Moreover, there may be discussions surrounding the adequacy of funding sources to support the expanded services mandated by the bill. As such, debates surrounding the bill could center on balancing the need for healthcare access while ensuring financial viability for healthcare organizations.

Companion Bills

WA HB1123

Crossfiled Ensuring access to primary care, behavioral health, and affordable hospital services.

Previously Filed As

WA SB5710

Providing access to behavioral health services to youth in rural and underserved areas.

WA SB5502

Ensuring access to substance use disorder treatment.

WA SB5422

Providing access to behavioral health services to children using licensed clinicians colocated within the school.

WA SB5393

Addressing affordability through health care provider contracting.

WA HB2066

Addressing affordability through health care provider contracting.

WA HB1379

Addressing affordability through health care provider contracting.

WA SB5948

Addressing affordability through health care provider contracting.

WA HB1508

Improving consumer affordability through the health care cost transparency board.

WA HB1313

Improving health care affordability for older adults and people with disabilities on medicare.

WA SB5853

Extending the crisis relief center model to provide behavioral health crisis services for minors.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.