Bill > HB1509

This bill enhances family reconciliation services in Washington state by expanding the definition and scope of services available to families experiencing youth-related conflicts. The bill adds new provisions to existing law that require the Department of Children, Youth, and Families to offer family reconciliation services in more scenarios, including when a youth is in juvenile detention, experiencing housing instability, or when a local community support team is involved. The bill also mandates more comprehensive data collection about these services, requiring annual reporting on the number of service requests, referrals, demographic information of families accessing services, types of family conflicts, service outcomes, and recommendations for improvement. Additionally, the bill requires the department to offer contracts for community-based family reconciliation services in at least one existing location by July 1, 2025, subject to available funding. The services are defined as culturally relevant, trauma-informed interventions designed to assess and stabilize families, build support skills, and connect families to community resources, which may include referrals for medical care, parent training, conflict management, and other social services. The bill aims to provide more flexible and responsive support for families experiencing youth-related challenges.

Budget and Finance, Education, Labor and Employment

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1509&Year=2025&Initiative=false