Improving the risk assessment process used when investigating alleged child abuse and neglect referrals.

 H-1277.2

SUBSTITUTE HOUSE BILL 1544

State of Washington

69th Legislature

2025 Regular Session

By House Early Learning & Human Services (originally sponsored by Representatives Rule, Hill, Davis, Reed, and Ormsby)

READ FIRST TIME 02/11/25.

AN ACT Relating to the risk assessment process used by the department of children, youth, and families when investigating alleged child abuse and neglect referrals; amending RCW 26.44.030 ; creating a new section; and providing an expiration date.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION. Sec. 1. (1) The department of children, youth, and families shall conduct a study to improve its risks, strengths, and needs assessment tool used in the risk assessment process when investigating alleged child abuse and neglect referrals described in RCW 26.44.030 (19) to:

(a) Identify family risks, strengths, cultural strengths, and needs at the time of the initial child protective services investigation or family assessment response to help inform the most appropriate service path for the family;