In the recent Washington State Legislature session of 2024, a bill known as SB 5241, also called the Keep Our Care Act, did not pass.

Photo byNational Cancer InstituteonUnsplash

The bill aimed to empower the Washington Attorney General to restrict mergers between religious and secular hospitals. This legislation was a response to several prominent healthcare mergers in the state, proposing to give the Attorney General more authority over potential mergers between different healthcare networks.

Opposition to Healthcare Mergers

Notably, the American Civil Liberties Union expressed opposition to the merger between the Franciscan healthcare network and Virginia Mason in 2021.

The concern raised was the lack of reproductive and gender-affirming care within the Franciscan system. Similarly, a merger involving Swedish and Providence healthcare networks in 2012 also prompted discussions.

Organizations such as Spokane's Spectrum Center and Planned Parenthood supported the policy.

Legislative Process and Outcome

Although SB 5241 successfully passed the State Senate and progressed through the House committee, it did not reach the floor for a final vote.

As a result, the bill was not enacted during the legislative session, and if there is an intention to reintroduce it in the future, a new bill will need to be drafted.

What Are Your Thoughts?

• Do you believe the Washington Attorney General should have greater oversight over hospital mergers?
• How important is it to consider issues such as reproductive and gender-affirming care in healthcare mergers?
• What role should advocacy groups play in influencing healthcare policies?

Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!