SB 5971.E - DIGEST

(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 3/14/03)

Declares an intent to honor the legacy of compassionate care at residential habilitation centers, by ensuring that state funding and the value of state assets previously devoted to institutional care is retained for services for individuals with developmental disabilities living in the community. In order to improve the cost-efficiency of care at residential habilitation centers and begin to shift resources to expand community services, Fircrest School shall be closed during the 2003-2005 biennium.

Directs the secretary of social and health services to develop and implement a transition plan that ensures that residents of Fircrest School shall be offered the choice of services at another residential habilitation center, community services, or, if appropriate, services in a skilled nursing facility. The proceeds from the eventual disposal of Fircrest property shall be deposited in the Fircrest legacy trust account established in this act.

Repeals RCW 71A.20.030.