Bill > HB2660

This bill aims to increase court oversight during child welfare shelter care hearings, particularly for children under five, in response to a significant rise in critical incidents involving families with open child welfare cases. It allows courts to order specific conditions for parents, guardians, or legal custodians when a child is released to their care, even if the child is not removed from the home, if there's a concern for the child's safety. These conditions, which must be identified by the department of child welfare as culturally appropriate, reasonably available, and accessible, can include verification of sobriety or treatment compliance if substance use or caregiver impairment contributed to the risk of harm. The court must review these conditions every 30 days and failure by the department to provide timely referrals or access to services cannot be used as a reason for child removal or a finding of dependency. The bill also clarifies that participation in prevention services or safety planning under these new conditions does not constitute an admission of abuse or neglect.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2660&Year=2025&Initiative=false