Committee advances prior‑authorization bill, adopts timeline amendment

The Health Care and Wellness committee on Feb. 25 voted to report out Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 53‑95, a prior‑authorization reform measure, with a due‑pass recommendation after adopting an amendment that shifts a carrier reporting deadline.

Vice Chair moved the bill and Representative Lakhanov moved amendment 2‑47, a simple timeline change that requires carriers to report specified prior‑authorization information to the Office of the Insurance Commissioner by Oct. 1, 2026, instead of Jan. 1, 2027. The amendment was adopted by voice vote.

Representative Ruhl urged members to support the bill, saying it will "help streamline processes and ensure that when people need care, they can get the medical care that they need, and have clarity on what will be paid for by their insurance." Representative Marshall said members on her side would be split: she supported transparency and accountability but raised lingering concerns about language related to retroactive denials and asked for additional clarity as the bill moves through the process.

On roll call the committee recorded 16 ayes, 2 nays and 1 excused; staff announced that ESHB 53‑95 was reported out of committee with a due‑pass recommendation. The committee incorporated adopted amendments into a striking amendment before reporting the bill.

The bill will proceed in the legislative process with the committee’s recommendation; members asked staff and sponsors to clarify retroactive‑denial language in subsequent drafts.