Senate committee hears bill to form joint legislative–executive committee on health‑care financing

Chair Cleveland opened a hearing on Senate Bill 6,292 on Jan. 29, which would establish a joint legislative–executive committee on health‑care financing composed of members of the House and Senate, the Governor’s Office, health‑related state agencies and tribal representatives. Greg Attenaccio, committee staff, told senators the committee would investigate financing strategies and develop policy options to improve statewide access and coverage.

Proponents from the insurance commissioner’s office and health‑system groups urged the Legislature to create a forum that coordinates administrative simplification, payment reform and other financing options. Nikko Janssen of the Office of the Insurance Commissioner said the agency supports collaboration and submitted suggested scope language to the chair. Galen Spradley of Valley View Health Center and Lisa Thatcher of the Washington State Hospital Association said community health centers and hospitals see value in a coordinated, multi‑stakeholder approach.

Several medical and provider organizations asked the committee to ensure the new body coordinates with existing entities and includes representation from purchasers, patients and fiscal experts. Sean Graham of the Washington State Medical Association said the bill’s references to administrative simplification and payment reform were welcome and that providers want a thoughtful process. Marissa Ingalls (Association of Washington Healthcare Plans) urged careful review of interactions between policy choices and affordability.

The bill specifies a preliminary report to the governor and Legislature by Jan. 1, 2027, and a final report by Nov. 1, 2027. Supporters said the structure would help the state prepare for federal changes and improve long‑term sustainability; opponents asked for clarified scope and stronger coordination with existing commissions and workgroups. Chair Cleveland indicated the committee would consider language changes as stakeholders continue consultations; the hearing concluded with requests to schedule an executive session.