BILL REQ. #:  H-1892.1 

READ FIRST TIME 02/14/07.   

     AN ACT Relating to preventing serious injury and strangulation from window blind cords or other significant safety hazards in child care settings; adding a new section to chapter 43.215 RCW; and creating new sections.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   A new section is added to chapter 43.215 RCW to read as follows:
     (1) Minimum licensing requirements under this chapter shall include a prohibition on the use of window blinds or other window coverings with pull cords or inner cords capable of forming a loop and posing a risk of strangulation to young children. Window blinds and other coverings that have been manufactured or properly retrofitted in a manner that eliminates the formation of loops posing a risk of strangulation are not prohibited under this section.
     (2) When developing and periodically reviewing minimum licensing requirements related to safety of the premises, the director shall consult and give serious consideration to the consumer product safety commission's most wanted list.
     (3) The department may provide information as available regarding reduced cost or no-cost options for retrofitting or replacing unsafe window blinds and window coverings.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   Within funding appropriated for this specific purpose, the department of early learning shall adopt rules and a streamlined process for providing small grants to facilities licensed under chapter 43.215 RCW for costs associated with replacing window coverings that can not be retrofitted to comply with licensing requirements. Any grants provided shall be based on need, expense for replacement with a safe alternative, and overall impact on the child care program.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 3   This act may be known and cited as the Jaclyn Frank act.