SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 2256

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.

As Passed Senate, February 27, 2018

Title: An act relating to the online availability of foster parent preservice training.

Brief Description: Concerning the online availability of foster parent preservice training.

Sponsors: House Committee on Early Learning & Human Services (originally sponsored by Representatives Graves, Frame, Dent, Kagi, Tarleton, Fey, Eslick, Slatter, Muri, Hargrove, Dolan, Senn, McDonald, Reeves, Young, Kloba, Ormsby, Lovick, Doglio, Stonier and Gregerson).

Brief History: Passed House: 1/22/18, 95-0.

Committee Activity: Human Services & Corrections: 2/19/18, 2/21/18 [DP].

Floor Activity:

Passed Senate: 2/27/18, 49-0.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires that all components of the foster parent pre-service training be made available online.

  • Requires the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to allow individuals to complete as much online pre-service training as is practicable while requiring that some pre-service training be completed in person.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS

Majority Report: Do pass.

Signed by Senators Darneille, Chair; Dhingra, Vice Chair; O'Ban, Ranking Member; Carlyle, Frockt and Miloscia.

Staff: Brandon Popovac (786-7465)

Background: Foster Parent Pre-Service Training. An individual must complete certain training requirements before becoming a licensed foster parent. The pre-service training is designed to assist applicants in making informed decisions about becoming foster parents and includes information about the potential impact of placement on foster children.

The first pre-service training requirement for foster parents is an orientation. The orientation provides an overview of the licensure process. Individuals are encouraged to attend this orientation in person but can complete the orientation online.

Following the orientation, individuals must complete 24 hours of core pre-service training. The Alliance for Child Welfare Excellence provides this training, which is only available in person. This training consists of eight, three-hour sessions and a break for a field experience after the fourth session. Prospective foster parents must also complete a first aid/cardiopulmonary resuscitation and blood borne pathogens course.

Foster parents may be issued a written waiver to allow them to complete the pre-service training within 90 days after licensure.

Summary of Bill: All components of the foster parent pre-service training must be made available online. DSHS must allow individuals to complete as much online pre-service training as is practicable while requiring that some pre-service training be completed in person.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.

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

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: Current in-person, pre-service training schedules can be a huge inconvenience and barrier for potential foster parents. Maintaining a balance between online and in-person pre-service training is important since in-person training would allow potential foster parents to meet, converse, and build a community with other potential foster parents. Current foster parent licensing requirements are still in place, which involve a social worker visit with background check and home inspection.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Paul Graves, Prime Sponsor.

Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.