WA SB5579

Health carriers, providers, and facilities are prohibited from making public statements or communicating with enrollees about contract terminations until 45 days prior to the termination date, unless required by law or previously disclosed due to legal obligation

Communications with the governor, legislators, or state agency staff regarding potential contract terminations do not constitute public statements under this restriction

The Insurance Commissioner must develop standard template language for termination notices by December 1, 2025, which must identify affected facilities, provide guidance on scheduled appointments, and include information about continuity of care rights

Violations by carriers may result in civil penalties up to $100 per day per enrollee for notices sent before the 45-day period; violations by providers or facilities may be reported to the Department of Health or appropriate disciplinary authority for enforcement action

The law exempts independent individual providers and small group practices of five or fewer providers not affiliated with a hospital or health system, and takes effect July 27, 2025