ESSB 5082 - H AMD 522 WITHDRAWN 4-11-97

By Representative Boldt

On page 10, after line 32, insert the following:

ANEW SECTION. Sec. 7 A new section is added to chapter 71.34 RCW to read as follows:

(1) Any provider of outpatient treatment for a minor thirteen years of age or older shall provide notice of the treatment to the minor's parents. The notice shall be made upon the completion of the minor's third visit for treatment, and shall contain the name, location, and telephone number of the mental health care provider who is designated to discuss the minor's need for treatment with the parent.

(2) A treatment provider may defer notification to a parent of a minor's request for treatment if: (a) The minor alleges physical or sexual abuse by the parent and the treatment provider notifies the department of the alleged abuse. Upon completion of its assessment of the allegation, the department shall notify the treatment provider of its findings. If the department determines the allegation is not valid, the treatment provider shall immediately notify the parent of the minor's treatment. If the department determines the allegation is valid, the treatment provider need not provide notice to the parent; or (b) the provider believes the parental notification will interfere with the necessary treatment for the minor. If the provider believes the notification will interfere with the necessary treatment, the provider shall notify the department. The department shall review the circumstances and pursue either a child in need of services petition, if the child meets the definition of a child in need of services under RCW 13.32A.030(4)(c), or a dependency petition under chapter 13.34 RCW, if the child meets the definition of a dependent child under RCW 13.34.030(4). If the department determines neither petition is appropriate it shall immediately inform the provider, who shall notify the parent of the treatment within twenty-four hours or after the third visit for treatment, whichever is later.@