SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5015
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 Passed Senate, February 26, 2009
Title: An act relating to foster parent licensing.
Brief Description: Concerning foster parent licensing.
Sponsors: Senators Franklin, Hargrove and Kauffman; by request of Department of Social and Health Services.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Human Services & Corrections: 1/30/09 [DP].
Passed Senate: 2/26/09, 45-0.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS |
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Hargrove, Chair; Regala, Vice Chair; Stevens, Ranking Minority Member; Brandland 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: Not requested.
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: Under current law, when a foster family moves, DSHS has 14 days within which to amend the license to reflect the new residence. Because of the short timeline, this adds to the emergency workload of licensors as well as puts some IV-E federal funding in jeopardy. DSHS asked for this bill to also assist foster parents who move and actually more accurately reflects the amount of time it takes to change the license.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Franklin, prime sponsor; Darcey Hancock, DSHS.