HB 2842 - DIGEST

     Provides that, when a newborn infant has been identified as being affected by the nonprescription use of a controlled substance by a physician licensed under chapter 18.71 or 18.57 RCW primarily responsible for the care of a newborn infant, an advanced registered nurse who practices midwifery licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW, or a midwife licensed under chapter 18.50 RCW, the department must be notified by the physician, nurse, or midwife.  Information given to the department shall include the name and address of the parent or parents of an infant who has been affected by the nonprescription use of a controlled substance.

     Requires the department, upon receipt of a report under this act, to investigate and, if the department has reasonable cause to believe that the infant has been affected by the nonprescription use of a controlled substance, the infant is in need of treatment for conditions related to the infant being affected by the nonprescription use of a controlled substance, and the parents of the child cannot adequately care for the child's conditions, the department shall take custody of the child for the purpose of obtaining treatment for the child.