Expanding access to athletic trainers in schools by funding critical access hospitals to hire trainers.

The bill adds a new section to chapter 43.70 RCW, establishing a matching grant program to help critical access hospitals hire licensed athletic trainers for local school districts. The Department of Health will provide grants up to $60,000, contingent on the hospital's ability to match funds and the need for expanded access. Grant funds can only be used for trainer salaries, medical supplies, and program awareness. Hospitals cannot receive consecutive grants within 12 months. The Department must report on the program's status by June 1, 2026.

Expanding access to athletic trainers in schools by funding critical access hospitals to hire trainers.

The bill adds a new section to chapter 43.70 RCW, establishing a matching grant program to help critical access hospitals hire licensed athletic trainers for local school districts. The Department of Health will provide grants up to $60,000, contingent on the hospital's ability to match funds and the need for expanded access. Grant funds can only be used for trainer salaries, medical supplies, and program awareness. Hospitals cannot receive consecutive grants within 12 months. The Department must report on the program's status by June 1, 2026.