SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5608

                    As of January 30, 1995

Title:  An act relating to residential habilitation centers.

Brief Description:  Removing the Frances Haddon Morgan Children's Center from the list of permanent residential habilitation centers.

Sponsors:  Senator Hargrove; by request of Department of Social and Health Services.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Human Services & Corrections: 

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS

Staff:  Andrea McNamara (786-7483)

Background:  In 1988, the Legislature permanently established six residential habilitation centers throughout the state to provide services to people with developmental disabilities.  Some of these centers had been in operation prior to 1988.  The Francis Haddon Morgan Children's Center was opened in 1970 and is one of the original six residential habilitation centers.  It is located at Bremerton, Kitsap County.  The FHMC Center specializes in the care of children and adults with autism.  Currently, the FHMC Center serves up to 56 individuals at an approximate daily cost of $275 per person.

In 1993, the Department of Social and Health Services was directed to close one of the centers, Interlake School, by January 1, 1995.  The residents of Interlake, together with their families or guardians, were given the choice to transfer to another residential habilitation center or to transition into community programs.

Summary of Bill:  Francis Haddon Morgan Children's Center is removed from the list of residential habilitation centers permanently established to provide services to people with developmentally disabilities.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on January 28, 1995.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.