Bill > SB5393

This bill addresses the closure of the Rainier School, a residential habilitation center located in Buckley, Pierce County, Washington, which provides services to individuals with developmental disabilities. The bill establishes a phased approach to closing the facility by June 30, 2027, with key provisions that include prohibiting new long-term admissions immediately and completely stopping all admissions by June 30, 2027. The Department of Social and Health Services is required to carefully manage the transition of current residents, prioritizing individual choice, autonomy, and preferences while ensuring appropriate alternative placements. The department must provide state-operated living alternatives, use supported living programs, offer spaces in other residential habilitation centers, and support employee transitions. The bill mandates comprehensive reporting requirements, with the department submitting detailed reports to the legislature on December 1, 2025, June 1, 2026, and subsequent dates, tracking resident transitions, placements, and employee movements. Additionally, the Office of the Developmental Disability Ombuds is required to submit a report by November 1, 2028, summarizing feedback from residents, parents, and guardians about the transition process. The bill also requires a public comment period to identify strategies for mitigating the closure's impact on affected communities.