The bill amends the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to enhance the membership requirements for local boards of health, particularly by mandating the inclusion of tribal representatives. It stipulates that if a federally recognized Indian tribe has reservation or trust lands within the county, or if an urban Indian organization recognized by the Indian Health Service operates in the area, a tribal representative from each must be allowed to serve on the board. This representative will be selected by the respective tribe or organization, and the local board must notify the American Indian Health Commission. Additionally, the bill replaces the term "nurse practitioners" with "advanced practice registered nurses" and emphasizes the need for a balanced representation of community stakeholders on the board.

The bill further outlines the selection process for board members, requiring approval by a majority of county commissioners and ensuring that the composition reflects a balance among various categories of members. It allows for the inclusion of elected officials from cities and towns, as long as they do not form a majority. The legislation also mandates that any changes to the board's composition adhere to the new requirements, ensuring representation for historically marginalized communities. Moreover, it establishes that local boards of health with only elected officials can maintain this structure if they had a public health advisory committee in place by January 1, 2021, and sets deadlines for compliance with specific requirements. The bill aims to improve the accountability and representation of local health boards while aligning with public health standards.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70.05.030, 70.05.035, 70.46.020, 70.46.031
Substitute Bill: 70.05.030, 70.05.035, 70.46.020, 70.46.031
Engrossed Substitute: 70.05.030, 70.05.035, 70.46.020, 70.46.031
Bill as Passed Legislature: 70.05.030, 70.05.035, 70.46.020, 70.46.031
Session Law: 70.05.030, 70.05.035, 70.46.020, 70.46.031