WABON to Assume Regulatory Authority for Nursing Assistants July 1
Beginning July 1, 2026, regulatory authority for nursing assistants in Washington state will transition to the Washington State Board of Nursing (WABON), as directed by Senate Bill 5051.
The change transfers credentialing and disciplinary actions from the Washington State Secretary of Health to WABON, streamlining the regulation of nursing assistants (NA).
“The board is thrilled to partner with nursing assistants (NAs) to look at how we can support this essential profession in their education, licensure, and careers,” said Alison Bradywood, Executive Director of the Washington State Board of Nursing.
What’s changing:
- WABON assumes regulatory authority of nursing assistant credentialing and disciplinary processes
- All credential-related questions directed to WABON
What’s not changing:
- Applications, renewals, and complaints will continue to be submitted through the Department of Health’s HELMS Online System
- The Provider Credential Search will remain available for verifying credentials
- Existing nursing assistant credentials remain valid
In addition to streamlining oversight, the legislation expands representation on the Board of Nursing by adding two nursing assistant-certified members and broadening an existing position to include a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse with experience as a nursing assistant educator.
These changes are intended to strengthen oversight and ensure nursing assistants have a voice in the policies that impact their profession and the care they provide.
For more information, visit nursing.wa.gov/news
