ESSB 5993 — Concerning lowering the interest rate for medical debt.

What this bill does

Replaces the 9 percent cap on prejudgment interest for medical debt with a 1 percent cap per year on new medical debt that is accrued after December 31, 2026, whether before or after an entry of judgment. Prohibits interest from being charged, and requires a refund for any interest paid, for any portion of medical debt that is accrued in specified circumstances.

From the Washington State Legislature's nonpartisan staff bill analysis. Read the full analysis ↗

Floor votes

• Senate — 549 Wagoner Pg 1 Ln 20 · February 6, 2026
  19 yea · 29 nay · 1 not voting
• Senate — 3rd Reading & Final Passage · February 6, 2026
  29 yea · 19 nay · 1 not voting

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Other bills sponsored by Alvarado

• HB 1090 — Concerning contraceptive coverage.
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• SB 5463 — Concerning the duties of industrial insurance self-insured employers and third-party administrators.
• SSB 5488 — Strengthening the financial stability of persons in the care of the department of children, youth, and families.
• E2SSB 5496 — Preserving homeownership options by limiting excessive home buying by certain entities.