Bill would let Washington doctors voluntarily relinquish licenses outside disciplinary process
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Summary
SB 6258 would authorize the Washington Medical Commission to create a non‑disciplinary pathway for permanent voluntary relinquishment of medical licenses; supporters say it avoids unnecessary disciplinary reporting while maintaining patient safety.
Senate Bill 6258, described to the Senate Health Committee on Jan. 29, would authorize the Washington Medical Commission to adopt rules allowing licensees to voluntarily relinquish licenses outside the disciplinary process. Julie Tran, committee staff, explained the rulemaking authority and that relinquishment would be permanent with no right to reinstatement or renewal; the bill would bar use of the process "in lieu of discipline" or while a licensee is under investigation.
Fatima Mirza, a program case manager for the Washington Medical Commission, testified the proposal responds to circumstances where providers seek to step away from practice for non‑misconduct reasons and to avoid triggering mandatory reporting to national data banks or public disciplinary postings. Chris Bundy, executive medical director of the Washington Physicians Health Program, said the bill would provide a "graceful and dignified" option for aging or medically disabled physicians who should not be forced into disciplinary surrender.
Senator Mazzall (prime sponsor) said the bill was a request from the Medical Commission. The vice chair reported 17 pro and 2 con sign‑ins; the committee closed the hearing with no immediate questions and no formal committee action recorded in the transcript.
