HOUSE BILL ANALYSIS

                 SSB 5512

Title:  An act relating to admittance of guilt in child abuse and neglect.

Brief Description:  Prohibiting requiring the admission of guilt to receive treatment in child abuse and neglect.

Sponsors:  Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections (originally sponsored by Senators Stevens, Hargrove, Benton, Haugen, Strannigan, Hochstatter, Rasmussen, Schow and Oke).

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON

CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES

Meeting Date:  April 1, 1997.

Bill Analysis Prepared by:  Doug Ruth  (786-7134).

Background:  In a dependency proceeding, a court may order a parent who has physically or sexually abused their child to temporarily leave the home.  The parent must complete treatment and education for abusive behavior before a court may allow the parent to return home.  The court may also require the parent to continue treatment as a condition of remaining in the home.

Summary of Bill:  A parent does not need to admit guilt to complete treatment or education ordered by a court unless the parent is found guilty of the acts that are the subject of the dependency action in a criminal proceeding.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

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