Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5169

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/9/23  
Report Pass
2/16/23  

Caption

Concerning health care plans administered by the health care authority that are available to medicare eligible retirees.

Impact

The potential impact of SB5169 on state laws includes modifications to the existing healthcare framework to accommodate Medicare-eligible retirees. By enabling more comprehensive health care plans under the authority’s governance, the bill promotes enhanced healthcare accessibility and options specifically targeted at this group. Legislators argue this will streamline processes and improve health care outcomes, acknowledging the significance of supporting retirees in managing their healthcare.

Summary

SB5169 addresses health care plans administered by the health care authority specifically for Medicare-eligible retirees. The bill seeks to improve access to necessary health services for this demographic, ensuring that the plans available cater to their unique healthcare needs. This initiative reflects a growing commitment to support aging populations with appropriate healthcare solutions and safeguards their well-being through tailored health plan options.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB5169 appears to be supportive among senators, with an overwhelming majority voting in favor during the committee stage. This indicates a bipartisan recognition of the need for legislative action that addresses the healthcare needs of retirees. However, while there is enthusiasm for improvements in healthcare, some concerns about the sustainability and funding of these plans may exist among certain stakeholders, indicating a nuanced discussion around the bill.

Contention

While there seems to be broad support for SB5169, the potential contention lies in the fiscal implications and the administrative capacity to implement expanded healthcare plans. Discussions may revolve around how these changes will be funded and whether the healthcare authority can effectively manage the increased demand for services. The clarity and robustness of the bill's provisions will be crucial in ensuring that it achieves its intended goals without overburdening existing systems.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA SB6315

Concerning benefits available to retirees of the state's retirement systems.

WA HB2167

Concerning retirement benefit eligibility for law enforcement officers' and firefighters' retirement system plan 2 retirees that separate from service and choose to work in eligible positions on a part-time basis.

WA HB1583

Concerning medicaid coverage for traditional health care practices.

WA SB5540

Concerning medicaid managed health care system reprocurement.

WA SJM8004

Concerning Universal Health Care.

WA SB6022

Concerning retirement medical trust plans for law enforcement officers.

WA HB1941

Providing for health home services for medicaid-eligible children with medically complex conditions.

WA SB6079

Making juvenile detention records available to managed health care systems.

WA SB5490

Concerning health care coverage for retired or disabled employees denied coverage for failure to timely notify the authority of their intent to defer coverage.

WA LR433

Interim study to examine the availability and access to data regarding maternal and infant health care in Nebraska

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.