Ed note: If you are not already a Washing State Continuing Care Resident’s Association (WACCRA) member, please consider joining this statewide organization of CCRC’s which advocate for the rights of residents. Currently, we have very few legal protections of our CCRC investment. A good way to get more information is to attend the WACCRA Video of Annual Meeting at 11 AM this Friday the 16th in the OT’s Performance Hall. There will be discussion of the legislation being proposed (see below).
Happy New Year!Washington’s 2026 Legislative session begins on Monday, January 12th in Olympia. The very exciting news is that there are TWO bills being considered related to CCRCs! They both build on WACCRA’s success in the 2025 Legislative session. And like last year, WACCRA’s ability to move our legislative agenda forward depends on YOU, our members.
SB 5964 / HB 2289
Senate Bill 5964 has been introduced by Senator Jessica Bateman (D-Olympia) with companion House bill HB 2299, introduced by Rep. Kristine Reeves (D-Federal Way). The bill would create Ombuds support for seniors living in independent living facilities, including CCRCs. These include communities based on age, typically 55+, but excludes any portion of a community that is subject to regulation by the Department of Social and Health Services (e.g., skilled nursing, for whom the Ombuds already works).The bill requires the Department of Commerce to establish the Ombuds program to:• Provide ombuds services across the state. • Establish a statewide reporting system. • Identify, analyze and resolve resident complaints. • Refer to appropriate state agencies issues when they find violations or issues that warrant action.HB 2299 has been scheduled for a public hearing in the House Housing Committee on Thursday, January 15th at 8:00 AM. You can indicate your (favorable) position on by CLICKING HERE: HB 2299Please do so before the hearing starts to make your voice heard.You can find the full bill language by CLICKING HERE: SB 5964
HB 2384
A second important bill, House Bill 2384, was introduced by long-time WACCRA supporter, Representative Nicole Macri. This bill would require certain CCRCs to submit to the Office of the Insurance Commissioner periodic actuarial studies analyzing the CCRC’s ability to meet its promise of future health care services to its residents.The bill as currently drafted does not apply this requirement to every CCRC and it does not include a specific penalty if CCRCs do not submit or submit inadequate actuarial studies. These are issues WACCRA will address in testimony at the House Health and Wellness Committee public hearing. We expect the hearing to be held the week of January 19th.You can find the full bill language by CLICKING HERE: HB 2384When HB 2384 is scheduled for the public hearing, we will be activating our membership like we did last year. Be on the lookout for information from your WACCRA Liaison or via a NewsMail on letter writing and logging in to show your support.
