Bill > SB5942

This bill reconstitutes the existing oversight board for the department of children, youth, and families (DCYF) into the new "department of children, youth, and families accountability board," which will operate independently within the governor's office. The board's purpose is to ensure accountability, monitor progress, and promote transparency in the department's operations and decision-making concerning children, youth, and families. The bill also updates the board's composition to include legislative members, subject matter experts in various fields related to child welfare and justice, tribal representatives, and individuals with lived experience in the foster care or juvenile justice systems, among others. The board will have the power to request and receive information from the department and the office of the family and children's ombuds, conduct investigations, and determine if the department is meeting its performance measures. Additionally, the bill makes changes to existing laws to reflect the new board structure and its responsibilities, including clarifying reporting requirements for the department and ensuring that certain records remain confidential.

Labor and Employment

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5942&Year=2025&Initiative=false