HOUSE BILL REPORT

ESB 5757

BYSenators Stratton, Deccio, Halsan, Smitherman, Anderson, Johnson, Saling and Moore

Authorizing a feasibility study of state-wide data base clearinghouse for the prevention of child abuse and neglect.

House Committe on Human Services

Majority Report:  Do pass.  (9)

      Signed by Representatives Brekke, Chair; Scott, Vice Chair; Leonard, Moyer, Padden, H. Sommers, Sutherland, Wang and Winsley.

House Staff:Jean Wessman (786-7132)

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES MARCH 26, 1987

BACKGROUND:

While national clearinghouses exist for the dissemination of information on child abuse and neglect, it is often quite time-consuming to obtain those materials.  Frequently, more state-specific information is desired.

Currently, no state-wide clearinghouse of child abuse and neglect material exists.  Information on current programs, research and potentially promising future prevention programs, is scattered among the various concerned groups and agencies.  It is suggested that a centralized repository of data would prove beneficial to all those groups involved in preventing child abuse and neglect.

SUMMARY:

The Washington Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect is authorized to create a state-wide data base clearinghouse.  The clearinghouse shall include information on:  1)  current and future prevention programs; 2)  current research on prevention; 3)  available resources including audio-visual and testing resources; and 4)  current state and tribal law on child abuse and neglect.

A report from the council is due January 1, 1989 on the usage of the clearinghouse, costs and funding sources.

An appropriation of $50,000 is made to the council and an expiration date of July 1, 1989 is established.

Appropriation:    $50,000 to the Council for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect.

Fiscal Note:      Attached.

House Committee ‑ Testified For:    Kip Tokuda, Washington Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect; and Ron Wagner, Washington State Medical Association.

House Committee - Testified Against:      None Presented.

House Committee - Testimony For:    In order to utilize existing and promising future child abuse and neglect prevention programs, a state-wide clearinghouse of information and research is necessary.

House Committee - Testimony Against:      None Presented.