Bill > SB5620

This bill codifies the rights of children and youth in foster care by establishing a comprehensive list of protections and guarantees for young people in out-of-home care subject to dependency proceedings. The bill outlines 16 specific rights, including the right to be treated equally without discrimination, priority placement with relatives or familiar individuals, placement with informed and trained foster care providers, maintaining connections with siblings and community supports, receiving a basic education, having legal representation, and accessing personal belongings. The bill also ensures youth have the right to consent to their own adoption if over 14, report abuse without retaliation, and access healthcare treatments. When youth turn 18 and leave foster care, they are guaranteed important personal documents like birth certificates, social security cards, and medical records. Additionally, the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families is required to create and distribute a concise pamphlet by September 1, 2025, detailing these rights and available resources, which must be provided to foster youth when they enter care, change placements, or transition to extended foster care, and published on the department's website. The legislature's intent is to improve the health, well-being, and safety of children and youth in the foster care system.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5620&Year=2025&Initiative=false