The 2024 legislative session began on January 13th, with House Bill 1114 gaining early attention from us at Greater Spokane Inc. This bill proposes Washington State’s participation in the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact (RCIC), a vital step for community health and supporting our military service members. By joining the RCIC, Washington continues its national leadership of backing interstate compacts. These agreements streamline license portability while maintaining high professional standards. Respiratory therapists, indispensable to our healthcare system, work closely with doctors to deliver specialized care and services to patients with pulmonary challenges. GSI took an active role in championing this legislation, organizing local leaders and professionals to deliver powerful testimony in its favor.
Former Fairchild Base Commander Brian Newberry brought his personal experiences and extensive background working with service men and women to the discussion. Newberry, whose wife has been a nurse for 35 years, shared the challenges of relocating over a dozen times during his military service.
“This is particularly important as was noted for younger military spouses out there,” Newberry stated. “They need to get into the workforce fast and are more income constrained, and need a job quickly.”
This issue is supported by legislation like the RCIC because it helps relieve much of that transitional burden experienced by military personnel. Newberry highlighted how valuable these kinds of programs would have been to him and his wife but hopes current and incoming service members get the opportunity to take advantage of them.
GSI also worked in partnership with Jon Moyer, MultiCare System’s Director of Respiratory Care. Drawing from his professional expertise, Moyer outlined a pressing challenge. “According to CoARC (the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care), 8,000 respiratory therapists leave the field annually due to retirement or other factors, while only 5,000 enter from academic programs.”
Moyer emphasized that the compact offers critical flexibility and portability for respiratory therapists, ensuring patients have access to skilled professionals across the state.
GSI’s strategic efforts ensured that these compelling voices were heard, underscoring the widespread benefits of HB 1114. GSI is proud to have facilitated community participation in this legislative process, showcasing the collective voice of Spokane in support of meaningful, impactful policy. We look forward to continuing to promote our member partners and community when able and will continue working to support the RCIC in Olympia.
