SENATE BILL REPORT

SJR 8223

BYSenators Kiskaddon and Bailey

Establishing a priority for appropriations for dependent children's services.

Senate Committee on Children & Family Services

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 4, 1988

Senate Staff:Jean Soliz (786-7755)

AS OF FEBRUARY 4, 1988

BACKGROUND:

In 1987 the Legislature passed a resolution establishing the Washington Code Review Panel to review statutes related to children who are deprived of a permanent family environment. 

The primary recommendation of the code review panel was that the state constitution be amended to make funding for these children a mandatory priority, similar to the funding position for funding common schools.

SUMMARY:

A constitutional amendment is created to provide that state appropriations for dependent children's services be decided upon by both houses of the Legislature separate from and prior to the passage of the state budget.

The amendment will be submitted to the state's voters for ratification in the next general election.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available

Effective Date:July 1, 1989