The bill aims to enhance regulatory oversight for continuing care retirement communities in Washington State by amending existing laws. It introduces new language that emphasizes that practices covered by the chapter are vital to public interest and that violations of these regulations are considered unfair or deceptive acts in trade or commerce under the consumer protection act. This change aims to strengthen consumer protections and ensure that continuing care retirement communities adhere to established standards.

Additionally, the bill outlines the requirements for registration as a continuing care retirement community, including the submission of residency agreements, financial statements, and compliance attestations. Notably, it adds a requirement for applicants to provide a written statement regarding entrance fees related to future care and services. The bill also clarifies that the department must issue registrations within sixty days of receiving a complete application and that registration is valid for two years, non-transferable, and exempt from public disclosure under the public records act.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 18.390.010, 18.390.030, 18.390.040, 18.390.080
Substitute Bill: 18.390.080
Bill as Passed Legislature: 18.390.080, 18.390.030
Session Law: 18.390.080, 18.390.030