The bill aims to enhance access to and practices surrounding portable orders for life-sustaining treatment in Washington State. It mandates the Department of Health to adopt guidelines for emergency medical personnel regarding the treatment of individuals who have expressed a desire not to receive futile emergency medical treatment. The bill introduces a standardized form for recording individuals' preferences, known as "portable orders for life-sustaining treatment," which must include an option for individuals to opt out of having their forms submitted to a statewide registry. Additionally, it establishes legal protections for healthcare providers who act in accordance with these orders, ensuring they are immune from liability when providing care based on the forms.

Furthermore, the bill creates a statewide registry to store these portable orders, allowing for future expansion to include other health care declarations. It outlines procedures for submitting, revoking, and accessing these orders, while ensuring compliance with patient confidentiality laws. The Department of Health is also tasked with researching alternative evidence to indicate a person's wishes regarding resuscitation, such as medical jewelry or electronic applications, and must report its findings to the legislature by June 30, 2026. The registry and its contents are exempt from public inspection and copying, ensuring the privacy of individuals' health care decisions.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.70.480, 70.122.130
Substitute Bill: 43.70.480, 70.122.130