Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Early Learning & Human Services Committee

HB 1293

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.

Brief Description: Regarding public disclosure of information relating to provision of child care and early learning services.

Sponsors: Representative Miloscia; by request of Department of Early Learning.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Exempts personal information in any files maintained for a child who is receiving child care or early learning services from public inspection or copying.

Hearing Date: 2/1/11

Staff: Megan Palchak (786-7120).

Background:

Prior to July 1, 2006, the Department of Early Learning (DEL) existed within the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) as the Division of Child Care and Early Learning. At that time, personal information (i.e. welfare or medical status) contained in child care and early learning records had been protected under DSHS statutes regarding confidential records. When the DEL became an independent agency, the confidentiality protections afforded to individuals whose personal information is documented in child care and early learning records under DSHS statutes became obsolete.

Summary of Bill:

Personal information contained in child care and early learning records is not available for public examination or copying.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.