Nation's first state-run long-term care insurance program about to launch in WA

It’s a landmark moment for the endeavor known as WA Cares, envisioned as a means to help Washington’s workforce afford long-term care and services as they age.

Starting Wednesday, insurance coverage through the state-run program will begin. Dozens of applications for benefits have already rolled in.

It’s been a bumpy journey since majority Democrats in the state Legislature approved its creation in 2019 over the objections of Republicans. The program has undergone much retooling due to legislative action and public debate. And, two years ago, it survived an attempt to end it through a ballot measure.

Eligible individuals will be able to use their benefits to obtain services like in-home caretaking, equipment to help with getting around, medications, and meal delivery. The state will pay authorized providers from a fund in which premiums paid by an estimated 3.7 million Washington workers are deposited.

https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2026/06/30/nations-first-state-run-long-term-care-insurance-program-about-to-launch-in-wa/