(1) In carrying out this chapter, discrimination against any person based upon race, gender, age, or preexisting condition is prohibited.

(2) The department of social and health services shall adopt rules to prohibit discrimination pursuant to this section, which shall govern all state agencies and all persons and entities involved in implementing this chapter, including but not limited to long-term services and supports providers.

(3) The prohibition against discrimination adopted in this section shall equally protect in-state participants and out-of-state participants under RCW 50B.04.180.

(4) The prohibition against discrimination will ensure that the program is implemented uniformly and that all program participants are treated fairly and protected from discrimination regardless of the laws in their home state.

(5) The prohibitions provided in this section are additional and supplemental to existing protections against discrimination under federal, state, and local laws, including chapter 49.60 RCW, as may be applicable.

Purpose—Effective date—2024 c 120: See notes following RCW 50B.04.180.