The bill seeks to consolidate and enhance the regulatory framework for nursing assistants in Washington State by amending various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) related to nursing. A significant change is the establishment of a new "board of nursing," which will consist of 17 members appointed by the governor, replacing the previous nursing care quality assurance commission. The board's composition will include a diverse group of nursing professionals and public members, and it will have the authority to certify nursing assistants, set fees, approve training programs, and establish rules for regulation. The bill also introduces a medication assistant endorsement for nursing assistants who meet specific training and competency requirements, clarifying their roles and responsibilities.

Additionally, the bill updates terminology throughout the text, replacing "secretary" and "commission" with "board," and it repeals outdated provisions, including RCW 18.88A.100, which relates to the waiver of examination for initial applications. The amendments emphasize the importance of maintaining high standards for certification and accountability among nursing and medication assistants. Most provisions of the bill are set to take effect on July 1, 2026, with one section effective on June 30, 2027, and section 1 of the act expiring on June 30, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 18.79.070, 18.88A.020, 18.88A.030, 18.88A.040, 18.88A.082, 18.88A.060, 18.88A.080, 18.88A.085, 18.88A.087, 18.88A.088, 18.88A.090, 18.88A.110, 18.88A.120, 43.70.250, 18.88A.210, 18.88B.060, 18.88A.100