On July 1, 2026, HB 2340 took effect, expanding Washington’s nursing substance use disorder (SUD) monitoring program. The program, known as the Compassion, Accountability, Recovery, Empowerment and Safety (CARES) Program, now includes nursing assistants.
The law adds nursing assistants to the list of eligible nursing staff who may access the program, currently available to registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and other health care professionals.
The SUD monitoring program provides support, including stipend assistance, for nursing staff whose ability to practice may be impacted by a substance use disorder. Participants collaborate with program staff to create a personalized plan, which may include a substance use assessment, treatment recommendations and ongoing progress updates. The stipend helps cover certain out-of-pocket expenses related to the substance use disorder monitoring program, subject to eligibility and available funding.
Voluntary participation in CARES provides participants with immediate intervention, referral to treatment, and supportive monitoring. Nursing staff who voluntarily participate and meet CARES requirements are not subject to disciplinary action for their substance use from the state Department of Health and their participation is not made known to the Washington State Board of Nursing.
WSHA has supported the substance use disorder monitoring program for nurses, as well as Washington’s comparable physician health program. (Remy Kerr).