SENATE BILL REPORT
SHB 1419
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 of March 23, 2009
Title: An act relating to sexually aggressive youth.
Brief Description: Revising provisions affecting sexually aggressive youth.
Sponsors: House Committee on Health & Human Services Appropriations (originally sponsored by Representatives Kagi, Dickerson, Walsh, Roberts, Hunt and Appleton).
Brief History: Passed House: 3/10/09, 96-0.
Committee Activity: Human Services & Corrections: 3/26/09.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS |
Staff: Jennifer Strus (786-7316)
Background: A "sexually aggressive youth" (SAY) is defined as a child who has been abused and has committed a sexually aggressive act or other violent act of a sexual nature, and who:
is in the care and custody of the state or a tribe;
is subject to a dependency proceeding or a tribal child welfare proceeding; or
has been referred to Child Protective Services (CPS) by law enforcement based on a determination the child cannot be detained in the juvenile justice system based on age or incompetence to stand trial for acts that could be prosecuted as sexual offenses.
CPS must investigate all referrals from law enforcement regarding a sexually aggressive youth, including referrals relating to children under age 12.
The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) may offer services and treatment or refer the child and the child's parents to appropriate services and treatment in the community. If the child's parents refuse to accept or fail to obtain appropriate services, and the circumstances indicate the refusal or failure constitutes abuse or neglect, DSHS may pursue a dependency action.
Summary of Bill: DSHS may offer appropriate available services and treatment to SAY and their parents or legal guardians and may refer the child and the child's parents to treatment and services regardless of whether the child is the subject of a dependency proceeding.
A child’s status as an SAY and any plan, services, and treatment plans and progress reports are confidential and not subject to public disclosure. Although this information can be shared with juvenile justice care agencies, law enforcement, and schools, those entities must maintain the confidentiality of the information.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.