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Bill

HB 1566

Making improvements to transparency and accountability in the prior authorization determination process.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Shelley Kloba and 4 co-sponsors

Washington bill strengthens prior authorization transparency and accountability requirements to reduce medical treatment delays and improve insurance decision documentation.

Referred to Appropriations.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1566

Legislative bill overview

HB 1566 seeks to enhance transparency and accountability in the prior authorization (PA) process—the system where insurance companies must approve certain medical treatments before they're provided. The bill establishes requirements for clearer communication, faster decision-making, and better documentation of PA determinations to reduce delays in patient care.

Why is this important

Prior authorization is a persistent pain point in healthcare, often delaying necessary treatments while patients and providers navigate insurance approval requirements. Improved transparency and accountability could reduce administrative burden on medical offices, speed up patient access to needed care, and create clearer standards for insurance decision-making—though implementation costs are a consideration.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance industry concerns: Health insurers may argue that stricter PA requirements increase administrative costs and could lead to higher premiums, or that transparency mandates limit their ability to control costs
  • Scope and enforceability: Questions about what specific transparency measures are required, who enforces violations, and whether penalties are sufficient to change insurer behavior
  • Definition of "accountability": Disagreement over whether the bill creates meaningful accountability mechanisms or primarily imposes reporting requirements without substantive consequences

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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