The bill amends RCW 71.12.460 to establish a licensing process specifically for Indian health care providers. It mandates that no entity may operate an establishment for compensation without first obtaining a license from the Department of Health. Beginning July 1, 2025, Indian health care providers can apply for a license by submitting a tribal attestation and an administrative processing fee, which will be set at a level that covers the costs of processing while acknowledging the lower cost of an attestation compared to a standard license.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that obtaining this license does not exempt Indian health care providers from meeting other credentialing standards or regulatory requirements, such as those related to behavioral health agencies, construction reviews, and local authority regulations. The bill also maintains penalties for operating without a license, including potential misdemeanor charges and fines.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 71.12.460
Substitute Bill: 71.12.460
Bill as Passed Legislature: 71.12.460
Session Law: 71.12.460