SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6230

BYSenators Craswell, Owen and Rasmussen

Limiting the use of corporal punishment in licensed child care facilities.

Senate Committee on Children & Family Services

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 28, 1988

Senate Staff:Carol Pedigo (786-7417)

AS OF JANUARY 27, 1988

BACKGROUND:

RCW 74.15 is the statute which pertains to the licensing of care providers for children, expectant mothers and the developmentally disabled.  The definitions under this section include group care facilities, child-placing agencies, maternity service, day care centers, foster family homes and crisis residential centers.  The statute currently makes no mention of discipline methods. 

Before 1987, the Washington Administrative Code allowed child care providers to use corporal punishment as long as it was nothing more severe than spanking with an open hand on the buttocks, which did not leave bruises.  In 1987 the WAC's were changed to eliminate all use of corporal punishment by child care providers.

SUMMARY:

A new section is added to Chapter 74.15 RCW, which prohibits all types of corporal punishment except spanking with the flat of the hand on the buttocks in a manner that does not result in bruises or other physical harm, when other methods of discipline have proved to be ineffective. 

In addition, the bill stipulates that using physical restraint to protect persons on the premises from physical injury, to obtain possession of a weapon or dangerous object, and to protect property from serious harm is not construed to constitute corporal punishment.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available