This bill amends RCW 70.05.080 to expand the qualifications for individuals who may serve as local health officers in rural counties, specifically those with populations under 100,000. It allows the local board of health or the official responsible for appointing a local health officer to appoint an acting local health officer from among those licensed as advanced registered nurse practitioners or physician assistants. The acting local health officer will have the same duties, powers, and authority as a health officer appointed under the existing law and will serve until a qualified individual is appointed according to the established procedures.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the appointment of a local health officer by the secretary of health if the local board neglects to do so after a vacancy arises. It also authorizes the appointment of an acting health officer to serve during the absence or incapacity of the health officer. The bill establishes an expiration date of June 30, 2027, for the new provisions, while a new section takes effect on the same date.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 70.05.050
Substitute bill: 70.05.080