SB 6238 - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 1ST SUB)

     Provides that a petition must be supported by a signed affidavit from a physician licensed under chapter 18.71 or 18.57 RCW or a law enforcement officer that the child's health, safety, and welfare will be seriously endangered if the child is not taken into custody.  If the petition is not supported by a signed affidavit from a physician licensed under chapter 18.71 or 18.57 RCW or a law enforcement officer, an alleged dependent child shall not be removed from the custody and care of his or her parents until his or her parents have been notified and until a shelter care hearing has been held pursuant to chapter 13.34 RCW.

     Provides that the department shall make final recommendations to the court as to when it is appropriate for a child to be returned home or retained in custody and when a change in visitation with parents or legal guardians is appropriate.  This recommendation may be informed by information from experts who have treated the child or provided services to the parents, or both.