HOUSE BILL ANALYSIS

                 PSHB 1487

Title:  An act relating to foster parents' rights;  amending RCW 74.13.280, 74.13.330, and 74.13.300;  adding new sections to chapter 74.13 RCW;   and prescribing penalties.

Brief Description:  Changing provisions relating to foster parents' rights.

Sponsors:  Representatives Clements and Skinner.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON

CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES

Meeting Date:  February 22, 1999.

Bill Analysis Prepared by:  Dave Knutson  (786-7146).

Background:  Many foster parents fear reprisal if they disagree with the care plan established for a child in their care, or attempt to adopt a foster child.  If a foster child destroys the property of a foster parent the Department of Social and Health Services will reimburse them for the depreciated value of the object.  If a foster parent objects to the plan of care for their foster child they have limited recourse to challenge it.

Summary of Bill:  Employees of the Department of Social and Health Services are prohibited from retaliating or discriminating against foster parents.  The departmental and judicial review rights and procedures are broadened to apply to foster children and foster parents.  The Department will adopt rules governing all foster care and child welfare services programs provided by the Department and its contractors.  The Department will share information with the child=s care giver and consult them in the development of the child=s case plan.  Foster parents will, if they desire, participate in the development of the service plan for the child and perform other related tasks.  After a foster child has lived with a foster parent for ninety days, the Department will provide the foster parent five days written notice of a decision to remove the child from the home.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  None.

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