The bill aims to enhance the protection of confidentiality for records and information related to the provision of protected health care services in Washington State. It amends existing definitions in RCW 7.115.010, introducing new terms such as "Assistance," which encompasses various forms of support for accessing protected health services, and clarifying the definitions of "Gender-affirming treatment" and "Protected health care services." The bill also emphasizes the state's commitment to safeguarding lawful health care services, regardless of the recipient's location, and establishes that any out-of-state laws imposing penalties related to these services are against Washington's public policy.
Additionally, the bill outlines specific prohibitions for state courts and agencies regarding cooperation with out-of-state enforcement actions related to protected health care services. It prohibits the issuance of warrants or subpoenas based on another state's laws and restricts business entities from providing information in response to such legal processes unless certain attestations are met. The bill also includes a provision for notifying the attorney general's office if an attestation is incomplete or absent. Overall, the legislation seeks to ensure that individuals and entities in Washington are not penalized for engaging in lawful health care practices as defined by state law.
Statutes affected: Original Bill: 7.115.010, 7.115.020