SENATE BILL REPORT

                  SHB 1487

                     As of March 19, 1999

Title:  An act relating to foster parents' rights.

Brief Description:  Changing provisions relating to foster parents' rights.

Sponsors:  House Committee on Children & Family Services (originally sponsored by Representatives Clements and Skinner).

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Human Services & Corrections:  3/25/99.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS

Staff:  Joan K. Mell (786-7447)

Background:  Many foster parents fear reprisal if they disagree with the care plan established for a child in their care or attempt to adopt a foster child.  If a foster child destroys the property of a foster parent, the Department of Social and Health Services will reimburse them for the depreciated value of the object.  If foster parents object to the plan of care for their foster child, they have limited recourse to challenge it.

Summary of Bill:  Employees of the Department of Social and Health Services are prohibited from retaliating or discriminating against foster parents.  The department shares information with the foster child's care givers and consults them in the development of the child's case plan.  Foster parents assist in family visitation, model effective parenting behavior for the natural family and, if appropriate and desired, participate in the development of the child's service plan.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on March 15, 1999.

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