Brandland statement on passage of
2SHB 2292 - medical malpractice
February 22, 2006

OLYMPIA…State Sen. Dale Brandland, R-Whatcom County, today released the following statement on Senate passage of 2SHB 2292 on medical malpractice.

“This bill represents the first step in a very long journey. The bill we passed today addresses patient safety and doctor responsibility and I’m pleased that the parties involved were able to come to an agreement on these proposals.

“My hope now is that we continue to work on this issue because there is still a lot more to be done. We now need to turn our attention to medical liability reform. Without true liability reform, the cost of medical malpractice insurance will continue to be expensive – too expensive for many high-risk doctors to practice. The result is reduced access to medical care in our state.

“This bill is a good start, and I look forward to continuing to work with all the stakeholders to build on this compromise.”

2SHB 2292 passed the Senate today unanimously. Due to amendments adopted in Senate, the bill now goes back to the House for further consideration.

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Sen. Brandland represents Washington’s 42nd district which includes Bellingham, Lynden and Blaine. Brandland serves on the Financial Institutions, Housing and Consumer Protection Committee, Health and Long-Term Care Committee, Human Services and Corrections Committee, and the Ways and Means Committee.

For more information contact Catherine Trinh (360) 786-7503 or trinh.catherine@leg.wa.gov