Bill

SB 126

83(R) - 2013
Healthcare

Vote Recommendation

Yes
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Positive
  • Neutral

Author(s)

Jane Nelson

Bill Caption

Relating to the creation of a mental health and substance abuse public reporting system.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

Summary: SB 126 would require the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to report the performances of various mental health and substance abuse care providers, such as managed care pilot programs, community centers, and persons that contract with the state to provide substance abuse services, through a public reporting system. SB 126 requires DSHS to post this information on its website for the public to view, and it requires DSHS to ensure no individual is identified in this system.

Analysis: We support SB 126 because it promotes transparency and limits government by allowing the public to see which state-affiliated mental health and substance abuse care providers are effective, and which are not. This will enable citizens to encourage their elected representatives to defund any providers they believe are not worth funding, and support those that they believe are worth supporting.