FINAL BILL REPORT

SSB 6115

                                  C 278 L 88

BYSenate Committee on Children & Family Services (originally sponsored by Senators Kiskaddon and Saling)

Providing for programs to enhance parenting skills and strengthen families.

Senate Committee on Children & Family Services

House Committe on Human Services

SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

BACKGROUND:

Studies show that persons who abuse or neglect their children were often abused or neglected themselves.  It also has been shown that many persons convicted of crimes were the victims of child abuse.

Proponents of parenting education believe positive discipline skills can be taught to parents, enabling them to deal with their children in an atmosphere which fosters dignity and respect and where closeness and trust among family members encourages family unity.  Thus, many people believe increasing access to parenting education will help reduce the cycle of child abuse.

SUMMARY:

The Washington State Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect is directed to fund, with available funds, voluntary parenting skills and family support programs in three geographically balanced areas around the state.  The voluntary programs are to be designed to serve expectant parents and families with children up to three years of age.  The programs are to be modeled after the successful programs funded in the past by the council.

The program funding is to be on a two year gradual reduction basis.  After two years, the community will take over responsibility for funding.  If the project includes an evaluation component, the project can be considered for a third year of funding.  Programs in economically distressed areas may qualify for continued funding if funds are appropriated.

Language is added to the statutes on the Governor's Commission on Children giving the council the authority to include parenting education programs in its study on a data based clearinghouse.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

      Senate    45     2

      House 95   0 (House amended)

      Senate    39     3 (Senate concurred)

EFFECTIVE:March 24, 1988