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2009 Senate Bill 5811: Concerning the placement of foster children
Introduced by Sen. James Hargrove (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.   Official Text and Analysis.
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 by voice vote in the Senate on February 25, 2009
Referred to the Senate Rules Committee on February 25, 2009
Amendment offered by Sen. James Hargrove (Hoquiam) (D) on March 2, 2009
To offer a stiking amendment to the underlying bill.
The amendment passed by voice vote in the Senate on March 2, 2009
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 by voice vote in the House 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 (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 by voice vote in the House on April 13, 2009
Received in the Senate on April 21, 2009
Senate doesn't accept House amendments, asks the House to reconsider.
Passed by voice vote in the Senate 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.
Received to the Senate on April 25, 2009
Senate agrees to House action.
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.