Implementing SSB 5579 (R 2025-10)

SSB 5579 was signed into law on May 20, 2025. The new law:  

• Prohibits health carriers and certain health care providers and facilities from making public statements regarding potential contract terminations until 45 days before the termination date of the contract.  
• Requires that the Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC) develop standard template language for provider contract termination notices sent to consumers by health carriers, health care providers, or health care facilities by Dec. 1, 2025. 
• Requires that the law’s changes be included in all provider contracts by Jan. 1, 2027. 
• Authorizes OIC to enforce the provisions of the law related to health carriers and allows OIC to impose civil monetary penalties on health carriers for non-compliance.

Rulemaking may be necessary to implement SSB 5579 and ensure that interested organizations understand their rights and obligations under the new law. OIC may amend Chapter 284-170 Washington Administrative Code (WAC) to accomplish this goal.