SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1101
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As Reported by Senate Committee On:
Human Services & Corrections, March 17, 2009
Title: An act relating to modifying a foster parent license due to a change of residence.
Brief Description: Modifying foster parent licenses.
Sponsors: Representatives Roberts, Kagi and Kenney.
Brief History: Passed House: 2/23/09, 95-0.
Committee Activity: Human Services & Corrections: 3/13/09, 3/17/09 [DP].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS |
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Hargrove, Chair; Regala, Vice Chair; Stevens, Ranking Minority Member; Brandland, Carrell, Kauffman and McAuliffe.
Staff: Jennifer Strus (786-7316)
Background: The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) currently issues foster home licenses for the licensee only at the location specified on the foster home licensing application. A foster home license remains in effect for two weeks after a foster family moves, but only if the foster home has an acceptable history of child care and the family remains intact after the move.
Summary of Bill: A foster family home license remains in effect for 30 days after the foster family moves to a new location. This occurs as long as the family remains intact after the move and the home has an acceptable history of child care. Before moving to a new location, licensees must notify their licensor and may request a continuation of the license at the new location. Within 30 days of the licensee's request, DSHS must amend the license to reflect the new location as long as the new location and licensee meet minimum licensing standards.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill represents one of a number of steps the state is taking to do a better job in keeping foster parents a vital part of the system and not have them overcome by so many obstacles in the system. When foster parents change residences, they are busy setting up their household and not necessarily thinking about their foster care license. This bill provides them with additional time to deal with the license change, as well as ensuring that the federal matching funds are not lost.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Roberts, prime sponsor; Darcey Hancock, DSHS.