SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5836

                    As of February 17, 1999

Title:  An act relating to foster parents.

Brief Description:  Providing assistance to potential foster parents.

Sponsors:  Senators Long, Haugen, Winsley, Zarelli, Wojahn, Thibaudeau, Rasmussen and Oke.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Human Services & Corrections:  2/25/99.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS

Staff:  Aldo Melchiori (786-7439)

Background:  Concern exists that Washington is experiencing a significant shortage of foster homes, especially for hard to place children and those with special needs.  It has been suggested that more people may be willing to become foster parents if additional assistance is made available.

Current foster family payment standards, including the clothing allowance, are established in the Washington Administrative Code.  The department provides liability coverage for personal injury and property damage caused by foster parents or foster children.  The department may purchase insurance or self-insure.

Summary of Bill:  The basic reimbursement rate for foster children is raised by $3 per day.  The foster child clothing allowance is established as $200 per year.  The department annually reviews basic foster care rates and how they meet the need for providing care.

Liability insurance is provided for the replacement value of destroyed or damaged items.  The department may spend up to $1 million per biennium on liability coverage.

The department requires and provides first aid/CPR and HIV/AIDS training for all new and current foster parents.

Appropriation:  $15,300,000 from the general fund for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2000, for the reimbursement rate increase and clothing allowance.  $290,000 from the general fund for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2000, for liability insurance.  $275,000 from the general fund for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2000, for first aid training and HIV/AIDS testing.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.