Coming up on Legislative Review — Washington lawmakers take up health care access and childcare workforce reform.
340B Drug Pricing Protections – Senate Bill 5981
The House Health Care & Wellness Committee hears a bill addressing the federal 340B drug pricing program, which allows certain hospitals and health centers serving rural and vulnerable populations to purchase outpatient drugs at discounted prices.
Senate Bill 5981 would prohibit drug manufacturers from restricting access to discounted medications for eligible providers and require annual financial reporting to the Washington State Health Care Authority. Supporters say the bill protects safety-net providers and helps stretch limited health care dollars. Critics argue it could increase costs and create unintended financial consequences. The bill previously passed the Senate 30–18.
Child Care Workforce Board – House Bill 1128
Lawmakers also consider a proposal to create a new board to study and recommend improvements to childcare employment standards statewide.
The board would include workers, employers, parents, and state agencies, and would examine wages, benefits, staffing shortages, recruitment, and retention. Supporters say stabilizing the childcare workforce is critical to families and the broader economy. Opponents raise concerns about regulatory expansion and potential cost impacts on providers and parents. The bill passed the House 63–29.