SB 5210-S - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 2ND SUB)

     Declares that, unless there is reasonable cause to believe that the safety or welfare of the child would be jeopardized or that the efforts to reunite the parent and child will be hindered, priority placement for a child in shelter care shall be with any person described in RCW 74.15.020(2)(a).  The person must be willing and available to care for the child and be able to meet any special needs of the child.

     Provides that, if a child is not initially placed with a relative pursuant to this section, the supervising agency shall make an effort to place the child with a relative on the next business day.  The supervising agency shall document its effort to place the child with a relative pursuant to this act.