The Washington State Board of Nursing (Board) has filed expedited rulemaking WSR 26-18-054 to implement HB 2340, which expands Washington’s nursing substance use disorder (SUD) monitoring program to include nursing assistants and makes them eligible for program stipends.
Because the rule implements requirements established by HB 2340 without making material changes, the Board can use the expedited rulemaking process.
The rule creates new WAC 246-841A-840, establishing eligibility and requirements for the stipend program. Eligible applicants, including nursing assistants, may receive financial assistance for out-of-pocket expenses if they demonstrate financial need and hold an active, inactive, or suspended license. The Board may cover up to 80% of eligible expenses, including SUD evaluations, treatment, drug testing, and peer-support services.
The Compassion, Accountability, Recovery, Empowerment and Safety (CARES) Program provides support, including stipend assistance, to nursing professionals whose ability to practice may be impacted by a substance use disorder.
For more information on HB 2340, please read WSHAs previously published article: Washington extends substance use disorder support to nursing assistants (Remy Kerr).