2026
KCMS Advocacy
Major Legislative Achievement: Prior Authorization Reform
E2SSB 5395 — Prior Authorization Reform
After years of frustration from physicians and patients, Washington State is poised to enact meaningful prior authorization reform.
We are proud to report that prior authorization reform legislation developed through KCMS policy efforts has passed the Washington Legislature and is now headed to the Governor for signature.
The bill improves transparency and accountability in the prior authorization process by establishing clearer decision timelines, improving communication between insurers and healthcare professionals, and helping ensure that medically necessary treatments are not delayed by unnecessary administrative barriers.
We thank Senator Tina Orwall for championing this legislation and working closely with physicians to move this reform forward. KCMS also thanks our lobbyist, James Paribello, for helping guide the bill through the legislative process.
This effort began with KCMS physicians bringing their clinical experience into the policy conversation. Seeing it advance toward becoming law represents a significant victory for physicians and patients across Washington.
Bill Signed Into Law
2SHB 1162 / SB 5162 — Workplace Violence Prevention in Health Care Settings
This legislation strengthens prevention planning, reporting pathways, and coordinated response standards for hospitals and health care facilities, addressing the growing threat of workplace violence in clinical settings.
During the 2026 legislative session, KCMS provided testimony and policy input on more than twenty pieces of legislation, ensuring that physician expertise remained part of the policy conversations shaping the future of health care in Washington.
A final legislative update will be shared following sine die on March 12, once all legislative actions are complete.
Thank you for your continued support of KCMS advocacy efforts.
