Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 71.40.030 — Office created — Rules., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 71.40.030. Office created — Rules.
(1) By July 1, 2022, the department shall establish the state office of behavioral health consumer advocacy to provide behavioral health consumer advocacy services to patients, residents, and clients of behavioral health providers or facilities. Prior to the establishment and operation of the office, the department shall solicit recommendations from members of the behavioral health community for options to rename the office and the certified behavioral health consumer advocates in a way that shows respect for the community that the office and the advocates serve. Prior to the office beginning operations, the department must rename the office and the certified behavioral health consumer advocates from the options proposed by the community. The department shall contract with a private nonprofit organization to provide behavioral health consumer advocacy services, according to the standards established by the office. The department shall assure all program and staff support necessary to enable the contracting advocacy organization to effectively protect the interests of persons with behavioral health needs in accordance with this chapter. The department shall select the organization through a competitive bidding process and shall assure that the selected organization (a) has demonstrated financial stability and meets the qualifications for the duties identified in this chapter, and (b) does not have any conflicts of interest that would interfere with the duties identified in this chapter. The department shall encourage persons who have lived experience with behavioral health conditions or who are a family member of a person with behavioral health conditions to apply.
(2) Following the selection of the organization to carry out the ministerial functions of the office, the department shall not initiate the procurement of a new contract except upon a showing of cause. Prior to ending the contract and conducting a new competitive bidding process, the department shall provide an opportunity for comment by the contracting advocacy organization and to appeal the reselection to the department.
(3) The office shall adopt rules to carry out the purposes of this chapter, including:
(a) Establishing standards for the contracting advocacy organization to use when certifying behavioral health consumer advocates;
(b) Establishing procedures consistent with chapter 202, Laws of 2021 for appropriate access by behavioral health consumer advocates to behavioral health providers or facilities; and
(c) Establishing procedures consistent with RCW
71.40.140 to protect the confidentiality of the records of patients, residents, clients, providers, and complainants.
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 71.40.030
What does Revised Code of Washington § 71.40.030 cover?
Section 71.40.030 ("Office created — Rules.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Washington § 71.40.030?
A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 71.40.030" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Washington law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.
How does Washington § 71.40.030 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
