HOUSE BILL ANALYSIS

                  HB 1810

Title:  An act relating to technical amendments concerning the child abuse protection and treatment act;  amending RCW 74.13.500;  and declaring an emergency.

Brief Description:  Amending the child abuse protection and treatment act.

Sponsors:  Representatives Boldt  and Tokuda;  by request of Department of Social and Health Services.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON

CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES

Meeting Date:  February 17, 1999.

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

Background:  The Department of Social and Health Services is required to disclose information regarding the abuse or neglect of a child, the investigation of the abuse or neglect and any services related to the abuse or neglect under certain circumstances.

Summary of Bill:  The Department will also disclose the required information in cases where the child is the subject of a near fatality.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  None.

Effective Date:  The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.