Establishing radiation dose standards for the operation of ionizing radiation screening systems regulated by the department of health.

 H-2497.1

HOUSE BILL 2241

State of Washington

69th Legislature

2026 Regular Session

By Representatives Couture, Engell, Barnard, and Schmick

Prefiled 01/02/26. Read first time 01/12/26. Referred to Committee on Health Care & Wellness.

AN ACT Relating to establishing radiation dose standards for the operation of ionizing radiation screening systems regulated by the department of health; amending RCW 70A.388.040 ; adding a new section to chapter 70A.388 RCW; and creating a new section.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION. Sec. 1. (1) The legislature finds that:

(a) The department of health is the designated state radiation control agency and has the authority to establish regulations relating to control of sources of ionizing radiation. Using that authority, in December 2024, the department of health issued rules that, among other changes, limited the screening capabilities of correctional facilities. This included requiring body scanners to operate at one-eighth of their previous imaging power, resulting in unclear images that diminish the ability of correctional staff to identify concealed narcotics potentially leading to dangerous health and safety impacts, including overdose;