[Comments on this legislation] [Post new comment] [Text and Analysis] [Add to Watch List]
[Previous] [Next]

• Introduced by Sen. Jim Hargrove, (D-Hoquiam) (D) on February 3, 2009, modifies provisions for the placement of foster children. Specifies that if ta parent requests placement with a relative, there is a presumption that the placement does not hinder reunification of the child with the parent. If the parent objects to such placement the presumption is that it hinders reunification. The state has the burden of overcoming these presumptions by a preponderance of evidence.
  • Referred to the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee on February 3, 2009.
    • Substitute offered in the Senate on February 25, 2009, removes the portions of the bill creating presumptions for and against hindering reunification depending upon the parent's agreement or disagreement with a relative placement. Also removes language regarding a foster parent's or relative's right to be heard regarding a threatened placement. The substitute passed in the Senate by voice vote on February 25, 2009.
  • Referred to the Senate Rules Committee on February 25, 2009.
    • Amendment offered by Sen. Jim Hargrove, (D-Hoquiam) (D) on March 2, 2009, to offer a stiking amendment to the underlying bill. The amendment passed in the Senate by voice vote on March 2, 2009.
• Passed in the Senate (47 to 0) on March 9, 2009. [Vote Details and Comments]
• Received in the House on March 11, 2009.
  • Referred to the House Early Learning and Children's Services on March 11, 2009.
    • Amendment offered in the House on March 27, 2009, to require the court to inquire and make findings in children's dependency cases relating to placement of the child with a relative. Adds references to other suitable persons with whom the court may order a child placed in dependency proceedings. Directs the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to post on its website and provide to youth in foster care a listing of its responsibilities toward youth age 12 years and older while in foster care. Authorizes the Office of the Family and Children's Ombudsman to investigate allegations of retaliation against foster parents and provide findings to the DSHS. Requires the Administrative Office of the Courts to develop mandatory court forms for dependency cases and requires use of the forms beginning January 1, 2010. The amendment passed in the House by voice vote on March 27, 2009.
  • Referred to the House Health & Human Services Appropriations Committee on March 30, 2009.
  • Referred to the House Rules Committee on April 6, 2009.
    • Amendment offered by Rep. Ruth Kagi, (D-Lake Forest Park) (D) on April 13, 2009, to clarify the requirements of written notice to adoptive parents six months prior to the adoption regarding support from the adoption support program. The amendment passed in the House by voice vote on April 13, 2009.
• Passed in the House (98 to 0) on April 13, 2009. [Vote Details and Comments]
• Received in the Senate on April 21, 2009, Senate doesn't accept House amendments, asks the House to reconsider. Passed in the Senate by voice vote on April 21, 2009.
• Received to the House on April 23, 2009, House removes amendments and offers new amendments concering the placement of children removed from a home, providing administrative guidance and procedures for placement, with prefernce for placement with family. Passed in the House (95 to 0) on April 23, 2009. [Vote Details and Comments]
• Received to the Senate on April 25, 2009, Senate agrees to House action. Passed in the Senate (49 to 0) on April 25, 2009. [Vote Details and Comments]
• Signed by Gov. Christine Gregoire on May 14, 2009, requires the court to inquire and make findings in children's dependency cases relating to placement of the child with a relative. Adds references to other suitable persons with whom the court may order a child placed in dependency proceedings. Directs the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to post on its website and provide to youth in foster care a listing of its responsibilities toward youth age 12 years and older while in foster care. Authorizes the Office of the Family and Children's Ombudsman to investigate allegations of retaliation against foster parents and provide findings to the DSHS .