Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
Early Learning & Human Services Committee
HB 2185
Brief Description: Concerning the office of homeless youth prevention and protection programs advisory committee.
Sponsors: Representatives Fey, Leavitt, Reed, Santos, Zahn and Wylie.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Expands the membership of the Homeless Youth Advisory Committee to include:  (1) at least two additional individuals over age 25 who experienced homelessness or involvement with a publicly funded system of care as a youth; and (2) at least two individuals who represent populations that are disproportionately homeless or have experience in a publicly funded system of care in the youth and young adult population.
Hearing Date: 1/13/26
Staff: Luke Wickham (786-7146).
Background:

Office of Homeless Youth Prevention and Protection Programs.

The Office of Homeless Youth Prevention and Protection Programs (OHY) within the Department of Commerce (DOC) contracts for services and provides resources to reduce and prevent homelessness for unaccompanied youth and young adults ages 12 through 24.

 

Homeless Youth Advisory Committee.

The OHY is required to regularly consult with the Homeless Youth Advisory Committee (Advisory Committee).  This Advisory Committee must provide guidance and recommendations to the OHY regarding funding, policy, and practice gaps within and among state programs.  The Advisory Committee is staffed by the DOC.

 

Members of the Advisory Committee include:

  • advocates;
  • at least two legislators;
  • at least two parent advocates;
  • at least two youth representatives;
  • at least one representative from law enforcement;
  • service providers; and
  • other stakeholders knowledgeable in the provision of services to homeless youth and young adults.

 

Members of the Advisory Committee are appointed by the Governor, except for the legislators who are appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate.
Summary of Bill:

The membership of the Homeless Youth Advisory Committee (Advisory Committee) is expanded to include: 

  • at least two additional individuals over age 25 who experienced homelessness or involvement with a publicly funded system of care (the child welfare system, the behavioral health system, the juvenile justice system, and programs administered by the office of homeless youth prevention and protection programs) at some point while ages 12 through 24; and
  • at least two individuals who represent populations that are disproportionately homeless or have experience in a publicly funded system of care in the youth and young adult population which includes, but is not limited to, individuals with a tribal affiliation, people of color, and people with a disability.

 

The age of the youth representatives on the Advisory Committee are expanded to allow for youth or young adult representatives under age 25 (instead of under age 18). 

 

A young adult serving on the Advisory Committee who turns age 25 during their term may complete their term on the Advisory Committee even though they are age 25 (and not under age 25).
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.