The bill amends RCW 71.24.064 to provide greater flexibility in funding the partnership access line assessment, specifically allowing for the inclusion of reasonable administrative costs associated with the assessment when calculating the proportional share of program costs for certain entities. The new language specifies that costs for a contracted third-party administrator can be included in the total assessment, while the authority's other administrative costs for the programs cannot be included. This change aims to ensure that the funding structure is more sustainable and adequately covers the necessary administrative expenses.

Additionally, the bill outlines the process for determining the annual costs of operating various mental health programs and the method for calculating the proportional share of costs that non-Medicaid entities must contribute. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the authority, the University of Washington, and Seattle Children's Hospital in assessing program costs and performance measures. The bill also mandates quarterly reporting on demographic data and systemic barriers to services, enhancing accountability and transparency in the administration of these mental health programs.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 71.24.064
Bill as passed Legislature: 71.24.064
Session law: 71.24.064