Governor Jay Inslee and Attorney General Bob Ferguson have both introduced a package of legislation attempting to deal with the opioid crisis. These proposals (SB 6150, SB 6050, SB 6028) contain a host of policy initiatives, some with competing approaches. These include, among other items:
- Prescription drug monitoring programs;
- Restrictions on the number of opioids that can be prescribed at one time;
- Creation of state rapid response teams for regions facing the epidemic; and
- Standing orders for prescription of opioid overdose reversal medications.
We are aware that some of these provisions are controversial and there are questions about their workability from the medical community. AWC will be expressing support for the state taking bold action to tackle this crisis, and will attempt to avoid debate on the technicalities. Please let Carl Schroeder know if you have particular concerns or points of emphasis on these issues.
All of these bills are scheduled for public hearing in the Senate Health & Long Term Care Committee at 10 am on Monday, January 15.