The bill aims to facilitate the credentialing process for certified health care professionals providing long-term care services in Washington State. It introduces provisions that exempt individuals whose nursing assistant or home care aide certificates have been expired for more than six months but less than two years from late renewal fees and continuing education requirements, provided they meet other certification requirements set by the Department of Health. Additionally, the Department is mandated to notify individuals who have not renewed their certificates since January 1, 2020, about the possibility of restoring their certificates without financial penalties. These provisions are set to expire on July 1, 2025.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the reinstatement process for expired certificates, detailing the requirements for individuals whose certificates have been expired for five years or less, as well as those whose certificates have been expired for more than five years. It also amends existing laws to clarify certification renewal timelines, including a two-year renewal requirement for home care aide certifications and provisions for provisional certifications for long-term care workers who are limited English proficient. The bill includes various amendments to existing statutes to enhance the clarity and efficiency of the certification process for long-term care workers.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 18.88B.021, 18.88B.031, 18.88B.041, 18.88A.130, 43.70.250, 74.39A.074, 74.39A.056
Substitute Bill: 18.88B.021, 18.88B.031, 18.88B.041, 18.88A.130, 43.70.250, 74.39A.074
Engrossed Substitute: 18.88B.021, 18.88B.031, 18.88B.041, 18.88A.130, 43.70.250