Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
Human Services, Youth, & Early Learning Committee
HB 1407
Brief Description: Maintaining eligibility for developmental disability services.
Sponsors: Representatives Taylor, Senn, Simmons, Stonier, Jacobsen, Bateman, Lekanoff, Peterson, Ramel, Macri, Pollet, Reed and Doglio.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Provides that the rules determining eligibility for developmental disability services may not terminate or require redetermination of eligibility for a child under age 18 based solely on the child's age if the child has been determined to be eligible for services on or after the child's third birthday.
Hearing Date: 1/25/23
Staff: Omeara Harrington (786-7136).
Background:

A developmental disability is a disability that:

  • is attributable to intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, or a neurological condition or other condition that is closely related to an intellectual disability or that requires treatment similar to an intellectual disability;
  • originates before age 18 and is expected to continue indefinitely; and
  • constitutes a substantial limitation to the individual.

 
The Developmental Disabilities Administration of the Department of Social and Health Services (DDA) assists individuals with developmental disabilities and their families to obtain services and support based on individual preferences, capabilities, and needs.  While some DDA clients live in residential habilitation centers, an institutional setting, most clients live in the community.  Eligibility for DDA services depends on whether the client has a qualifying developmental disability, has a functional need, and meets certain income and asset standards.
 
If a child is determined to be eligible for DDA services before age 3, eligibility expires on the child's fourth birthday.  Eligibility for a child determined eligible at or after age 3 based on developmental delays or Down Syndrome expires on the child's tenth birthday.
Summary of Bill:

The Department of Social and Health Services rulemaking authority relating to redetermination of eligibility for developmental disability services is modified to provide that rules may not terminate or require redetermination of eligibility for a child under age 18 based solely on the child's age if the child has been determined to be eligible for services on or after the child's third birthday.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 19, 2023.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.