Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research		 BILL
ANALYSIS
Early Learning & Children's Services Committee

HB 2834

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Modifying a foster parent license due to a change of residence.

Sponsors: Representatives Roberts, Kagi and Wood; by request of Department of Social and Health Services.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Provides for the continuation of a foster family home license when a foster family relocates to a new home.

Hearing Date: 1/24/08

Staff: Sydney Forrester (786-7120).

Background:

Foster family home licences issued by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) are issued for the foster family's current home and are location-specific. When a foster family moves to a new residence, the license remains in effect for an additional two weeks after the move, but only if the home has a history of acceptable care and the foster family remains intact. Following the two-week extension, the foster family must undergo the process of re-licensure at the family's new home. Absent a change in circumstances, foster family home licenses are issued for a period of three years.

Summary of Bill:

When a foster family moves to a new residence, the license will remains in effect for 30 days after the foster family moves. This 30-day extension is conditioned on the foster family remaining intact after the move and the home having had an acceptable history of child care.

Before relocating, the foster family licensee must notify the licensor of the intended move and may request a continuation of the license at the new location. If the new location and licensee meet minimum licensing standards, the DSHS must, within 30 days of receiving the licensee's request for continuation of the license, amend the license to reflect the new location .

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.