HOUSE BILL REPORT

SSB 6115

As Amended by the House

BYSenate Committee on Children & Family Services (originally sponsored by Senators Kiskaddon and Saling)

Providing for programs to enhance parenting skills and strengthen families.

House Committe on Human Services

Majority Report:  Do pass with amendments.  (9)

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

House Staff:John B. Welsh, Jr.  (786-7133)

AS PASSED HOUSE MARCH 6, 1988

BACKGROUND:

Studies have shown that persons who abuse or neglect their children often were abused or neglected themselves.  It has also been shown that many persons convicted of crimes were the victims of child abuse.  Many people believe placing emphasis on parenting education will cause a reduction in child abuse and, in turn, reduce inappropriate behavior when those children become adults.

Proponents also believe positive discipline skills should be taught to parents so they are able to deal with their children in an atmosphere fostering dignity and respect and where closeness and trust among family members encourages family unity.

The Department of Social and Health Services desires funding for a Spanish language parenting brochure.

SUMMARY:

Direction is given to the Washington State Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect to fund, within available funds, and monitor voluntary parenting skills and family support programs in three geographically balanced areas around the state.  The voluntary programs are to be designed to serve expectant parents and families with newborns through three years of age.  The programs are to be modeled after successful programs funded in the past by the Council.

The program funding is to be on a two year gradually reducing basis, so that after two years, the community in which the project exists will take over responsibility for funding.  If the project includes an evaluation component, the project can be considered for a third year of funding.  Programs in economically distressed areas may qualify for continued funding if funds are appropriated.

Language is added to the statutes on the Governor's Commission on Children giving the Council the authority to include parenting education programs in their study on a data based clearinghouse.

The bill contains an emergency clause.

Fiscal Note:      Available.

House Committee ‑ Testified For:    Senator Bill Kiskaddon, Prime Sponsor; and Kip Tokuda, Washington Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect.

House Committee - Testified Against:      None Presented.

House Committee - Testimony For:    Parenting programs for those parents with children ages newborn to three years will teach parents better skills in raising their children and strengthen their ability to handle parenting stresses.  Positive discipline training is necessary to reduce the use of corporal punishment and strengthen the family unit.

House Committee - Testimony Against:      None Presented.