Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5271

Introduced
1/11/23  
Refer
1/11/23  
Report Pass
2/7/23  
Refer
2/8/23  
Report Pass
2/23/23  
Refer
1/8/24  
Engrossed
1/24/24  
Refer
2/5/24  
Report Pass
2/20/24  
Refer
2/21/24  
Report Pass
2/26/24  
Refer
2/26/24  
Enrolled
3/8/24  
Chaptered
3/15/24  

Caption

Protecting patients in facilities regulated by the department of health by establishing uniform enforcement tools.

Impact

If enacted, SB5271 would have significant implications for state laws relating to health care regulations. It proposes a shift towards a more centralized approach in enforcing health standards, which could reduce the variability in the quality of care that patients may experience depending on the facility in which they receive treatment. This standardization may enhance accountability among facility operators, potentially improving overall patient outcomes and safety across the sector.

Summary

SB5271 seeks to enhance protections for patients within facilities regulated by the Department of Health through the establishment of uniform enforcement tools. This bill is designed to standardize procedures across various facilities to ensure that all patients receive the same level of care and oversight, thus aiming to mitigate any discrepancies that may arise from varying enforcement practices at the local level. The overarching goal is to provide a safer, more consistent health care environment for patients across the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB5271 appears to be mixed, with supportive voices emphasizing the need for consistency in patient care and regulatory enforcement. Proponents argue that this uniformity will enhance patient safety and make compliance easier for health care providers. However, there are concerns among some stakeholders about whether the bill might lead to overly rigid regulations that do not account for the unique needs of different facilities or populations, which could hinder flexibility in care delivery.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB5271 have centered around the balance between state oversight and the operational autonomy of health care facilities. Critics worry that such uniform enforcement tools could overlook specific local issues that may require tailored regulatory approaches. The debate reflects broader concerns about the role of state versus local control in health care, with calls for more nuanced regulations that accommodate diverse patient needs without sacrificing the goal of enhanced safety.

Companion Bills

WA HB1434

Crossfiled Protecting patients in facilities regulated by the department of health by establishing uniform enforcement tools.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1434

Protecting patients in facilities regulated by the department of health by establishing uniform enforcement tools.

WA HB1864

Transporting patients by ambulance to facilities other than emergency departments.

WA HB1209

Protecting public health and safety by regulating the transfer of sodium nitrite.

WA SB5178

Protecting public health and safety by regulating the transfer of sodium nitrite.

WA SB5078

Protecting public safety by establishing duties of firearm industry members.

WA HB1137

Establishing uniform policies and procedures within department of corrections facilities relating to disciplinary proceedings and administrative segregation.

WA HB2161

Addressing enforcement of tenant protections.

WA HB1130

Protecting public safety by establishing duties of firearm industry members.

WA HB1045

Expanding the definition of uniformed personnel to all law enforcement officers employed by a city, town, or county.

WA HB1081

Establishing consumer protections for owners of solicited real estate.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.