Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Early Learning & Human Services Committee |
HB 1261
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Establishing receiving care centers for emergency and crisis care for children removed from their homes.
Sponsors: Representatives Hope and Santos.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/5/13
Staff: Lindsay Lanham (786-7120).
Background:
The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) has the authority to establish licensing requirements for foster homes and other agencies or entities that provide care for children residing in out-of-home placements. Receiving care centers provide immediate placement and care for children who have been removed from their homes for up to seven days. Receiving care centers have entered into an agreement with regional DSHS offices to provide emergency or crisis care to children. Currently, receiving care centers are not formally licensed by the DSHS.
Summary of Bill:
Receiving care centers are defined as an agency that provides short-term emergency care or crisis care to children for a period up to seven days who have been removed from their home by child protective services. Receiving care centers serve children who are age birth-to-12 years or children over the age of 12 who have a sibling less than 13 years of age being admitted to receiving centers. The DSHS must adopt rules that establish a licensing category for receiving care centers.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.