70.148.160 - Financial assistance -- Rural hospitals.

Financial assistance — Rural hospitals. (Expires June 1, 2013.)

To qualify for financial assistance, a rural hospital as defined in *RCW 18.89.020, owning or operating an underground storage tank must:

     (1) First apply for insurance from the pollution liability insurance program and request financial assistance in a form and manner required by the director;

     (2) Apply to the governing body of the city, town, or county in which the hospital is located for certification that the continued operation of the tank or tanks is necessary to maintain vital local public health or safety needs;

     (3) Qualify for insurance coverage from the pollution liability insurance program if such financial assistance were to be provided; and

     (4) Agree to provide charity care as defined in **RCW 70.39.020 in an amount of equivalent value to the financial assistance provided under RCW 70.148.120 through 70.148.170. The director shall consult with the department of health to monitor and determine the time period over which such care should be expected to be provided in the local community.

[1991 c 4 § 5.]

Notes: Reviser's note: *(1) RCW 18.89.020 was amended by 1997 c 334 § 3, deleting the definition of "rural hospital."

     **(2) RCW 70.39.020 was repealed by 1982 c 223 § 10, effective June 30, 1990.

Severability -- 1991 c 4: See note following RCW 70.148.120.