Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
Housing, Human Services & Veterans Committee
HB 2008
Brief Description: Eliminating the use of intelligence quotient scores in determining eligibility for programs and services for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Sponsors: Representatives Taylor, Fitzgibbon, Peterson, Ramel, Santos, Sells, Shewmake, Valdez, Ryu, Macri, Berg, Bateman, Ormsby, Frame, Davis, Lekanoff and Pollet.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Prohibits the Department of Social and Health Services from using intelligence quotient (IQ) scores in determining eligibility for programs and services for persons with developmental disabilities beginning July 1, 2025.
Hearing Date: 1/25/22
Staff: Serena Dolly (786-7150).
Background:

The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) is a division of the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) that assists persons with developmental disabilities and their families to obtain services and support based on individual preferences, capabilities, and needs.  People served by the DDA live in the community, in residential habilitation centers, and in institutional settings.

 

Eligibility for DDA services depends on whether a person has a qualified developmental disability, has a functional need, and meets certain income and asset standards.  The services provided are designed to promote everyday activities, routines, and relationships common to most people, and include housing, medical care, personal care, and job training.

 

To qualify for DDA services, a person must have an intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, or another neurological or other condition similar to an intellectual disability or require treatment similar to that required for individuals with intellectual disabilities.  The disability must:

  • have originated before the person turned eighteen,
  • be expected to continue indefinitely, and
  • result in substantial limitations.

 

The DDA may not use intelligence quotient (IQ) scores as the sole determinant of developmental disability.

Summary of Bill:

By December 1, 2023, the DSHS must submit a report to the appropriate committees of the Legislature with an assessment of the alternatives to using IQ scores in determining eligibility for programs and services for individuals with developmental disabilities and a plan to discontinue the use of IQ scores.

 

Beginning July 1, 2025, the DSHS may not use IQ scores in determining eligibility for any developmental disability-related services or programs.

Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 20, 2022.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.