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WA SB5681

WA SB5681
Concerning the age at which clients of the developmental disabilities administration may receive employment and community inclusion services.


summary

Introduced
02/06/2025
In Committee
02/06/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

AN ACT Relating to the age at which clients of the developmental 2 disabilities administration may receive employment and community 3 inclusion services; amending RCW 71A.12.290; adding a new section to 4 chapter 71A.12 RCW; and providing an effective date. 5

AI Summary

This bill modifies the age and service requirements for clients of the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), specifically changing the minimum age for employment services from 21 to 19 years old. The bill requires the department to provide employment services starting at age 19, with service hours determined by the assistance needed to reach employment outcomes rather than directly correlating to time spent working. Clients aged 19 and older receiving employment services must be offered the choice to transition to a community inclusion program after nine months of enrollment, and they can move between employment and community inclusion programs at various times. The bill also mandates that the department inform clients and their legal representatives about available service options, including the types of activities, service scope, and duration. Additionally, the department is required to work with counties and stakeholders to expand community inclusion programs, emphasizing support for client integration and independent living skills. The bill includes provisions for potential exceptions to the nine-month employment program requirement and will take effect on October 1, 2025. The primary goal appears to be providing more flexible and age-appropriate services for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Committee Categories

Labor and Employment

Sponsors (6)

Last Action

First reading, referred to Human Services. (on 02/06/2025)

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