The proposed legislation, known as the Good Faith Pain Act, aims to provide legal protections for various licensed healthcare professionals, including podiatrists, dentists, osteopathic physicians, pharmacists, physicians, physician assistants, and advanced registered nurse practitioners. Specifically, the bill stipulates that these professionals acting in good faith will not face criminal or civil liability, nor disciplinary action from their respective boards or departments, for prescribing or dispensing opioid drugs to patients with chronic pain. This is contingent upon the patient and practitioner deeming the opioid prescription medically appropriate, and the patient signing a written informed consent that is documented in their medical records.

The bill introduces new sections to multiple chapters of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), explicitly outlining the conditions under which healthcare providers are protected when prescribing opioids. The act emphasizes the importance of informed consent and professional consultation in the management of chronic pain, thereby encouraging responsible prescribing practices while addressing the ongoing opioid crisis. Additionally, the act is declared necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, or safety, and is set to take effect immediately upon passage.