Welcome to Policy Watch 2004

WEEK 5

POLICY WATCH is a weekly bulletin about issues and events in Olympia, WA during the legislative session. It is part of the CIVIC ENGAGEMENT PROJECT, an effort to help increase citizen involvement in the legislative process through information and advocacy training.

Every POLICY WATCH has three parts. (1) Information: on contacting legislators, learning more about issues, etc. This section was up-front the first week; it has been moved to the end. (2) A description of what is happening week by week in Olympia. (3) Brief items about specific bills, arranged by category.

This bulletin focuses primarily on health, social welfare, and low-income issues. And while it attempts to give readers enough information to guide actions (calls, letters, visits), it will not take positions or urge a particular action. That is up to you.

Go to Part III Issues

Week Six begins on DAY 36 of the 60-day Session.

In the basement of the Pritchard building visitors might note a small, one-word sign that reads: "Hopper." That's where legislators put their proposed bills, to be given official formatting and language by the draftsmen in the Code Reviser's Office.

It gets its name from the world of agriculture, in an earlier time. The "hopper" was a piece of milling equipment, made with several bins. Rough grain was poured into the top bin, and then at each stage of the hopper it came out more finely ground. In bin after bin the roughage stayed behind until, at the bottom, what remained was the desired product - quite refined.

Something like that happens to bills. At every stage there's a chance for the bill to become more refined - for hopelessly contentious sections to be dropped out, compromise language inserted, or too-costly items pared off. Between Committee Hearings, Executive Session, and Floor Action - in first one house and then the other - citizens and legislators alike get multiple opportunities to forge a consensus and refine the bills that are introduced.

By now that process has left its mark. The Session is a little more than half over (a mark some regard as good news), and only about one-third - or fewer - of this Session's bills are still alive. In numerical terms that means of the roughly 2,000 bills that were introduced, by Week Six only 500 or 600 will still be in play.

That winnowing process isn't easy. This week Floor Action went on till Midnight - multiple times - and continued on into Saturday. Just looking at the lists of bills that poured out of Committees in the days before the Cut-Off, and were now waiting for a vote, is enough to boggle the mind. One day's Senate list began with 73 bills, including (in quick succession): Elevator safety, fish runs, tax accounting, planning boards, Veterans' health care, school employees, vessel registration, and Chemical dependency. More were added during the day, Whatever else one might say about the task we give the men and women who serve, we don't make the job easy.

Even so, despite the long hours and occasionally brain-numbing topics, most of the people who spend every winter in Olympia are remarkably nice to their unending stream of constituent visitors. (Staff in one office ran quickly to get M&M's to replenish a dwindling supply for their visitors, while another office offered cookies.) With so much at stake, the patience of staff makes up for a lot.

What To Look For Now
Our job as citizens is to continuously look for the signs of progress or stalemate for the bills we care about, and let our elected officials what we want them to do next.

To help readers, at this stage many bills are listed in POLICY WATCH with the note: "This bill appears dead." Those are bills that did not get the necessary Public Hearings, Committee Votes, and Floor Votes required for movement. Right up until the last minute, there is always a chance that some of those "apparently dead" bills will be revived, or that some of their content might turn up in another bill with a similar topic. But most will simply die.

Bills that are listed as being in the House or Senate Rules Committees, or on the Floor of the House or Senate, will remain "alive" until the close of business on 2/17. If they haven't passed the House or Senate by then - they too will get the note: "This bill appears dead."

By contrast, bills that already passed one body end with a different note: the name of the Committee in the "opposite House" they've been referred to - or in a few cases just the body they will go to (when the Committee assignment wasn't yet known). Senate bills will keep their Senate bill numbers -- but be listed for consideration in a House Committee; while House bills will keep their House bill numbers -- but be listed for consideration in a Senate Committee. All of those bills are still alive.

That's a very good sign, but not a guarantee of success, particularly in our divided legislature. Some bills that win majority support from the Republican-led Senate, won't make it through the House, just as some bills that win majority support from the Democrat-led House won't make it through the Senate. Bills that pass with a strong bi-partisan vote have a good chance.

So if there is something that you care about, this would be a good time to let your elected officials know it: your one Senator, two Representatives, and the Governor.

Don't Forget the Budget.
Once the Revenue Forecast comes out in Week Six, action on the Supplemental Budget will heat up (see notes for Week Six action on the budget). The news media tend to wait until the budgets actually appear in print to start reporting on them, but we can't; at that point a lot is already decided. (It's like waiting till the Final Four are announced to start reporting on the basketball season, or waiting till the World Series to start reporting on the baseball season….) Right now legislators are deciding what they want to fight for in the budget, and they are talking to the members of Appropriations (House) and Ways & Means (Senate) to try and get their priority items on the agendas of those budget-writers. We need to do the same: tell our Senator and Representatives what we think deserves attention in the budget - before the decisions have been made and it's too late.

BRIEF SNAPSHOTS FROM WEEK FIVE

** The organizers of a lobby day on behalf of early childhood did something very smart: with several hundred of their members in town, they hosted a gubernatorial forum that attracted five of the six declared candidates (only Mr. Rossi declined). The participating Head Start and ECEAP parents had done their homework, and asked good, informative questions. Results were win-win: the parents got a valuable lesson in their power as voters, and the candidates learned a lot about the importance of early childhood.

** Last week's POLICY WATCH mentioned "TATOO" where it should have said "TATU" - which stands for Teens Against Tobacco Use. These young activists have been calling, writing, and coming to Olympia to make the case for Clean Indoor Air.

** The efforts of TATU and others are being felt. When asked to name the Top Three issues generating calls/letters this week, a random sampling of legislative staff frequently mentioned "Clean Indoor Air." When asked whether the callers were "for" or "against" a ban on indoor smoking, the answer at both Republican and Democrat offices was clear: FOR.

** Not everyone is having fun. One experienced lobbyist called this year, "…the worst… most confusing… most stressful…" legislative Session.

** One savvy Tacoma activist saves the yard signs from campaigns she supported for state legislative seats. These days - during the Legislative Session, whenever the individuals do something noteworthy (e.g., cast votes she supports), the signs go back in her yard -- this time with a sign reading: THANK YOU, and a brief explanation.

** Among about 350 people in Olympia for HAVE A HEART FOR CHILDREN DAY, were both winners and losers of a competition. By mobilizing over 42 people to drive 6+ hours from Spokane for the Day, Eastern Washington University students and VOICES members (a low-income advocacy group), won a competition with U of Washington-Seattle students (who mustered only about 35 people… despite being much closer). Winners got a bag full of chocolate.

The SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET in WEEK SIX.

WORK SESSION
On Thursday, 2/19 at 3:30 pm, the House Appropriations Committee will hold a Work Session on the Revenue Forecast Update. House Hearing Room A, JL O'Brien Building.

In Week Five legislators heard some good news from the Caseload Forecast Council, which reported that Department of Corrections costs will be lower than expected (for a savings of $45 million). At the same time, k-12 and special education enrollments were flat (rather than declining), but without significant cost implications. That will reduce pressure on the state budget overall, and may make it possible for legislators to leave a bit more money in the state's emergency reserves than proposed by the Governor.

In Week Six, there will be a new Revenue Forecast. Whether revenues are higher or lower than estimated, that report will influence budget discussions.

Within 4-5 days after the Revenue Forecast is made public (around 2/23-24), the House Appropriations Committee is expected to issue its version of the Supplemental Budget. That will be followed by a version from the Senate Ways & Means Committee. Each must be passed - first by the budget-writing Committee, and then on the floor of its respective body. There are likely to be important differences between the two.

By March 11, the two versions must be reconciled, and the legislature must complete work on the Supplemental Budget. They must incorporate any revenues lost (e.g., from new or renewed tax breaks, lowered sales tax collections) or gained, and any changes in spending commitments (e.g., new programs, revised eligibility for state-funded services, reductions or increases in the number of eligible individuals for education/health/nursing homes/etc). In short, they must reconcile all of the changes adopted in all of the laws just passed, that produce differences in the budget since passage of the state's $22.8 billion biennial operating budget last year.

Our state requires that the budget be balanced. If the Governor and/or Legislature propose tax breaks that reduce revenues, they must fill the ensuing gaps. If they increase spending in any one category, they must make adjustments in other categories. Because tax breaks "cost" the treasury just as spending decisions do, they are often referred to as "tax expenditures."

The Governor's approach to the Supplemental Budget is available on the Office of Financial Management website: www.ofm.wa.gov/; now it is the Legislature's turn. In our system, the Executive proposes, but the Legislature disposes.

This year the state does not face a deficit - due largely to some one-time funds received from the federal government. However, many systems remain seriously under-funded - everything from public education to housing, health care, and transportation and more. And there are always pressures to reduce the size of government. That usually translates into cuts in health, human services, and activities serving low-income residents.

The Governor's proposed Supplemental Budget (HB 2459/ SB 6187) proposes a number of changes, including:

$300 million to accommodate prison and K-12 caseload growth
$168 million in new construction (for classrooms, research facilities, prisons, water plant)
$ 45 million to increase "Promise" scholarships, k-12 learning assistance, testing
$ 30 million to increase higher education enrollment
$ 31 million to pay for costs related to fires and floods
$ 2 million to accommodate social services caseload growth.

It also assumes $18 million in savings from the early release of low-risk prisoners, and reduces the Emergency Reserve Fund to just $172 million.

It reduces - but does not eliminate - health care premiums imposed on low-earning families last year when the budget was in deficit.

It assumes a $74 million tax expenditure by renewing some R&D business tax credits.

PART III - SOME ISSUES

This section notes upcoming hearings, plus categories of bills, including:

Aging/Long-Term Care
Child Care
Child Welfare
Civil Rights
Disabilities
Health Care
Housing/Homelessness
Hunger and Nutrition
Juveniles/Youth
Mental Health
Revenues
Sexual Abuse/Domestic Violence
Substance Abuse
Welfare
Miscellaneous

Fair warning: This bulletin only comes out weekly, and does not pretend to be comprehensive. If there is an issue category you care about, use the legislative website to monitor (www.leg.wa.gov) because the action changes daily.

REMINDER: House Bill numbers begin with 1 or 2;
Senate Bill numbers begin with 5 or 6. Recent bills have higher numbers.

NOTE for WEEK SIX: Final FLOOR ACTION is still underway - until COB 2/17. To see if a bill is scheduled for a floor vote, or already voted on, go to www.leg.wa.gov. To learn about House bills, click on House of Representatives, and then on FLOOR ACTIVITY; to learn about Senate bills, click on Senate, and then on FLOOR ACTIVITY. And be patient: there is always a bit of lag time between Floor Action and the time when staff can get the information on the website.

FORMAT CHANGE THIS WEEK : Beginning this week, bills that appear "alive" will continue to appear with descriptions of their contents. Bills that appear "dead" will only show bill number, title, and current status. (If they get revived, content will be added back in.)

AGING/LONG-TERM CARE

EHB 1777 - IMPLEMENTING THE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE HOME CARE QUALITY AUTHORITY AND INDIVIDUAL HOME CARE PROVDERS.
Last year the legislature rejected a contract that would have given home care workers a $2.07/hour raise over two years, plus health and L&I coverage. In its place they gave home care workers a $.75/hour raise. While the small raise was welcome, the legislature failed to honor the collectively-bargained agreement reached between the union and the Home Care Quality Authority, which had been approved by the voters in Initiative-775.
This year the home care workers are back with a new contract that includes a $.50/hour increase, health care and L&I coverage. The Governor included funds for this contract in his proposed budget ($24 million in state funds, which will be matched by an additional $24 million federal). HB 1777, funds the new contract. Senate action is needed. Or, this may be handled as a budget item, rather than as a bill.
The House passed this bill by a vote of 57-40. (It is now EHB - Engrossed House Bill - which means the bill together with all amendments accepted and passed in the house where it originated.)
It is now in the Senate Ways & Means Committee. No hearing scheduled.

HB 2451/SB 6331 - REVISING THE DEFINITION OF MANDATED REPORTERS IN BOARDING HOMES AND NURSING HOMES.
These bills are likely dead.

HB 2468/ SB 6726- ADULT FAMILY HOME LIABILITY
These bills appear dead.

HB 2517/ SB 6280 - RELATED TO NURSING HOMES
These bills appear to be dead.

HB 2714 - INCREASING SAFETY FOR SENIOR DRIVERS
This bill appears dead.

PROPERTY TAX RELIEF - Multiple Bills

HB 2938 - REGARDING LONG-TERM CARE FINANCING
This bill did not get out of the House Appropriations Cttee by 2/10; appears dead.

Related Issues
Advocates for Case Management services provided through Area Agencies on Aging are seeking an additional $3 million in state funds (which will be matched by $3 million federal) to cover a short-fall in funding. At stake are services that help 24,000 elderly and disabled individuals remain in their homes, rather than move to nursing homes for other residential facilities. Without adequate staff assistance - for services that range from blood pressure monitoring to dressing, bathing, and household chores - individuals now able to stay in their own homes, would have to move into state-supported facilities. Staffing is currently about one-fifth below what is needed.
At least one study puts savings to the state from in-home care at $227 million/year.

Nursing Home funding. This involves a complex, controversial, $11 million item, with strong views on both sides. All agree that a highly complex system for paying for nursing home care has been set in statute, and thus can only be changed by amending the law (current rates are based on 1999). Beyond that, there are different opinions as to the cause of the current issue. Advocates for seniors and for nursing homes are happy to talk about this.

CHILD CARE

HB 1545 - TO CONSOLIDATE EARLY LEARNING AND CHILD CARE PROGRAMS AND SERVICES. This bill is dead.
Some issues raised by this bill have been taken up in HB 2780 (below).

SHB 2360/ SB 6595 - ESTABLISHING A WAGE LADDER FOR CHILD CARE WORKERS
This bill did not move out of the House Appropriations Committee by 2/10; appears dead.

HB 2498 - REVISING FUNDING CONSTRAINTS AFFECTING THE WASHINGTON WORKFIRST PROGRAM.
This bill would provide stronger legislative control and oversight for the block grant funds flowing into the state for TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), the so-called "welfare box" monies. Included in this item are funds for subsidized child care.
This bill passed the House (96-0).
It is now in the Senate Committee on Children & Family Services & Corrections.

HB 2780 - ESTABLISHING AN EARLY LEARNING AND CHILD CARE LEGISLATIVE WORK GROUP.
The purpose of this bill is to begin to develop a strategic vision and specific goals for early learning & child care programs and services throughout the state. The intent is to support families in preparing for, and maintaining, their children's success in school. It would establish an early learning and child care legislative Work Goup to make recommendations for early learning and child care programs and services in the state, and report to the legislature by 12/5/04.
This bill is now on the House Floor; it may be voted on at any time.

SSB 6138 - DEVELOPING A MASTER PLAN FOR EDUCATION FROM PREKINDERGARTEN THROUGH UNIVERSITY.
This bill directs the Senate and House Education Committees, and both Higher Education Committees to develop a plan and make recommendations to the Legislature. The recommendations must address such issues as access, achievement, accountability, affordability, and the quality of schools and higher education. Interested parties - including faculty, administration, staff, advocacy groups, business and labor, parents and students - would be involved. An interim report is due 12/1/04; a final report is due 12/1, 2005. Individuals concerned about education have noted the unusual coming-together of people concerned about learning at all levels, and the inter-relationship of all levels.
This bill was passed by the Senate (48-0). It is now in the House Education Cttee.

Related Items
This year, as every year, the big child care issues concern funding, including the need for additional funds available to subsidize the child care of women moving from welfare to work. Childcare supports for low-income families have been cut by more than $32 million in recent years, and maintaining adequate funds for child care in the "welfare box," as well as for Head Start and ECEAP (EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM) are on-going concerns. (An apparent short-fall in the "welfare box" appears to have been resolved within DSHS - at least for now.)

CHILD WELFARE/CHILDRENS' ISSUES

Work Session:
On Wednesday, 2/18 at 8:00 AM there will be a Work Session on the "Handling of Reports of Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect," in the House Children and Family Services Committee, in Hearing Room D of the JL O'Brien Building.

HB 1563 - AFFIRMS THAT PARENTS HAVE A PARAMOUNT RIGHT TO RAISE THEIR MINOR CHILDREN.
This bill appears dead.

HB 2314 - CONCERNING NONPARENT VISITATION RIGHTS.
This bill appears dead.

HB 2334 - AUTHORIZING A SPECIAL "KEEP KIDS SAFE" LICENSE PLATE
This bill appears dead.

SHB 2361 - REQUIRING DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF POLICIES CONCERNING VISITATION FOR CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE
This bill directs the Department of Social Health Services (DSHS) to develop consistent policies and protocols - based on current relevant research concerning visitation for children in foster care - to be implemented consistently throughout the state. Requires that protocols include, but not be limited to: the structure, quality, and frequency of visitations; and training for caseworkers, visitation supervisors, and foster parents related to visitation. Provides that these protocols be implemented by January 1, 2005.
This bill passed the House (96-0); it has been referred to the Senate Children and Family Services & Corrections Committee.

HB 2362 - ESTABLISHING THE USE OF FAMILY TEAM DECISION MEETINGS
This bill appears to be dead.

HB 2399/SB 6272 - ESTABLISHING FAMILY LEAVE INSURANCE
Both bills now appear dead.

HB 2395 - STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS FOR CHILDHOOD SEXUAL ABUSE CIVIL CASES
The statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse is extended to ten years from the commission of the act. No change is made to the 3-year "discovery" rule relating to the childhood sexual abuse statute of limitations. Since the statue of limitations is tolled during minority, this means that a person will have until the age of at least 28 to bring an action for childhood sexual abuse, and potentially longer if the injured person did not discover the connection between the abuse and the injury until after the age of 25.
This bill has passed the House (95-0); it was referred to the Senate Judiciary Cttee.

HB 2429 - CHANGING PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE ADJUSTMENT OF CHILD SUPPORT ORDERS
This bill would provide for the adjustment of child support orders due to such circumstances as the death or remarriage of a parent, or the emancipation of a child, as well as substantially changed economic circumstances.
It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

SHB 2597 - DUTY OF A MEMBER OF THE CLERGY TO REPORTSEXUAL ABUSE OF A CHILD
This bill states that when any member of the clergy has reasonable cause to believe that a child has suffered sexual abuse and the perpetrator is a member of the clergy or an employee of the church or religious organization, he or she shall report such incident, or cause a report to be made, to the proper law enforcement agency or to the Department of Social and Health Services. This bill was amended and voted DO PASS by the House Children and Family Services Committee.
It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 2628 - PUBLIC ACCESS TO THE CHILD IN NEED OF SERVICES AND AT RISK YOUTH HEARINGS.
This bill states that the public will be able to attend "child in need of services", and "at risk youth" hearings, unless the judge finds that this would not be in the best interest of the child..
This bill passed the House (95-0); it has been referred to the Senate Children and Family Services and Corrections Committee

HB 2699 - CHANGING PROVISIONS RELATING TO CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE WITH HIV
This bill directs the Department of Social and Health Services to ensure that the HIV status of each child under one year of age placed in out-of-home care is determined at the earliest practicable opportunity by the physician. Additionally, DSHS shall inform each out-of-home care provider of the HIV status, if known, of the child to be placed in their care. All providers licensed by DSHS will receive training related to HIV.
Note: this bill is dead; HB 3081 is being considered instead. See below.

HB 2754 - PREVENTING THE SEXUAL ABUSE OF CHILDREN BY CUSTODIAL CARE GIVERS.
This bill appears dead.

HB 2777 - PROVIDING FOR AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS
This bill directs the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) and the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to work with the Washington after-school network to develop a state wide vision and strategic plan designed to ensure that quality after-school programs are available to every school age child in the state.
This bill is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting for floor action.

SHB 2792 - INITIATING A PROCESS TO DEVELOP COLLABORATION AMONG PUBLIC AND PRIVATE PROVIDERS OF CHILD WELFARE SERVICES.
This bill directs the Department of Social and health Services (DSHS) to convene regional and local department staff and community based agency staff to develop recommended policies and protocols concerning the following: (1) Collaborative decision making relating to both administrative processes and services provided to families, including but not limited to, contracting practices, referral practices and resource allocation; and (2) Integration of research based practices into child welfare throughout the state.
The bill is now in the House Rules Cttee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 2812 - ENSURING REPORTING BY CLERGY OF SEX OFFENSES COMMITTED AGAINST CHILDREN BY OTHER CLERGY.
This bill appears dead.

HB 2877/SB 6524-REVISING PROVISIONS RELATING TO GUARDIANSHIP OF DEPENDENT CHILDREN.
This bill finds that guardianship for some children who have been found to be dependent children and who cannot live with their parents is a valuable resource for children needing stability in their lives when such placement is in the best interests of the child. Declares intent to enhance family preservation and stability for children by recognizing the value of permanent placement with relatives or other long-term caregiver, dismissal of dependencies, and elimination of the need for continued governmental intervention in family life. It would expand opportunities for children to remain with relatives or long-term care-givers when they can no longer live with their parents, through support to relatives and unrelated persons who are willing and able to serve as guardians for the children.
The House bill is in the House Rules Cttee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.
The Senate bill is in the Senate Rules Cttee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 2936 - ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR CRIMINAL HISTORY CHECKS FOR PERSONS HAVING SUPERVISED AND UNSUPERVISED CONTACT WITH MINORS, DEVELOPMENTALY DISABLED PERSONS, OR VUNERABLE ADULTS.
This bill appears dead.

HB 2963 - REQUIRING BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR ALL DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES EMPLOYEES AND CONTRACTORS.
This bill appears dead.

SHB 2984 - REQUIRING CHILD FATALITY REVIEWS FOR CHILDREN INVOLVED IN THE CHILD WELFARE SYSTEM.
This bill requires the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to conduct a child fatality review in the event of a death from any cause of a child: who is in out-of-home care at the time of the child's death; or who had been reunified with the child's family at the time of the child's death following a placement out-of-home care.
This bill passed the House (93-0); it was referred to the Senate Children and Family Services and Corrections Committee

SHB 2988 - PROTECTING THE RIGHTS OF FOSTER PARENTS.
This bill sets out protections for Foster Parents against retaliation by state employees when foster parents advocate or services or file a compliant against the department. It provides for investigation of complaints against state employees and stipulates penalties in cases were retaliation is found.
This bill passed the House (93-0); it was referred to the Senate Children and Family Services and Corrections Committee

SHB 3001 - AUTHORING KINSHIP CAREGIVERS TO CONSENT TO MEDICAL CARE.
This bill's intent is to assist children being cared for by relatives to have access to appropriate medical services. It creates a mechanism to authorize kinship caregivers to consent to medical care for those children in their care.
This bill was amended and voted DO PASS by the House Children and Family Services Committee.
It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

SHB 3039 - EXTENDING THE EVALUATION FOR IDENTIFICATION OF LONG-TERM NEEDS OF CHILDREN ENTERING THE FOSTER CARE SYSTEM.
This bill requires that all children entering the foster care system must e evaluated for identification of long-term needs, within forty-five days of placement.
This bill passed the House (93-0); it was referred to the Senate Children and Family Services and Corrections Committee

SHB 3051 - REVISING NOTICE PROVISIONS FOR PROCEEDINGS INVOLVING INDIAN CHILDREN
This bill provides that whenever the court or the petitioning party in a third party custody proceeding knows or has reason to know that an Indian child is involved, the petitioning party must promptly notify the child's parent or Indian custodian an to the agent designated by the child's tribe. The bill provides for method and type of notification and defines rights to intervene.
This bill passed the House (96-0); it is waiting to be referred to a Senate Committee. i

SHB 3081-RELATING TO MEDICAL AND DENTAL CARE AND TESTING FOR CHILDREN IN THE CARE OF THE STATE.
This bill directs the provider of the initial medical assessment of a child under one year of age following placement in out-of-home care to conduct a screening, and if appropriate, test for blood-borne pathogens. It also directs dissemination of the findings for each out-of home placement and provides all out-of home providers training related to prevention, infection, transmission, control, treatment, testing, and confidentiality about blood borne pathogens.
This bill is now in the House Rules Cttee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

2SHB 3085 - ENCOURAGING THE USE OF FAMILY DECISION MAKING MEETING REGARDING CHILDREN IN THE CHILD WELFARE SYSTEM.
This bill establishes as the policy of Washington State that it encourages and supports family involvement in the decision making related to planning for children in the child welfare system. It requires the use of these meetings when appropriate and as soon as possible. If meetings are not used there must be written explanation and when they are used they are to result in a written family plan.
This bill passed the House (96-0); it is waiting to be referred to a Senate Committee.

SHB 3090/ESB 6692 - REVISING DEFINITION OF OUT-OF-HOME PLACEMENT.
This bill defines all situations in state placements that qualify as out-of-home placements. It removes the following language from the statutory definition of out-of-home placement: "or placement in a home, other that that of the child's parents, guardian, or legal custodian, not required to be licensed." With this change, placement with a relative would no longer be viewed as a failure of in-home family preservation/intensive family preservation services
The House bill passed the House (96-0); it is waiting to be referred to a Senate Committee.
The Senate bill passed the Senate (48-0) and is now scheduled for a hearing:
On Thursday 2/19 at 1:30 PM, it will get a Public Hearing before the House Children & Family Services Committee, in House Hearing Room D of the JL O'Brien Building.

2SSB 6220 - REGARDING SCHOOL EMPLOYEE DUTY TO REPORT SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT
This bill would require that any school employee who has witnessed - or has reasonable cause to believe - that a student has suffered abuse or neglect by any person, including other school personnel, shall report to the proper law enforcement agency or to the department of social and health services. The bill also requires that school employees receive training regarding their reporting obligations every three years.
This bill passed the Senate (48-0). It was referred to the House Education Committee.

SB 6446 - CLARIFING THE DUTY OF CLERGY TO REPORT ABUSE AND NEGLECT.
This bill appears dead.

SSB 6457 - CHANGING PROVISIONS RELATING TO ADOPTION
This bill holds that under no circumstances shall adoptions be delayed, denied, or given preferential treatment based upon the race of the child or prospective adoptive parents;
nor shall any fee be based upon the race or physical characteristics of the child, nor of the ability of the prospective adoptive parents to pay the adoption-related fees. The bill further states that all adoption fees will be disclosed by prospective adoptive parents to the court and approved by the court prior to the granting of the adoption petition. The intent of the bill is to eliminate any artificial barriers to adoption, such as fees exceeding the actual cost of the adoption-related services provided. Finally, the bill establishes a fund to assist prospective adoptive parents in meeting the actual costs of adopting a child.
It passed the Senate (47-0); it was referred to the House Children & Family Cttee.

ESSB 6642- FAMILY GROUP CONFERENCES FOLLOWING SHELTER CARE
This bill requires the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to facilitate a family group conference following shelter care and no later than 25 days prior to fact-finding. The family group conference replaces the conference created by the legislature in 2001. This bill was amended as follows: The term family group conference was replaced by case conference; parent will receive notification that they may have two advocates accompany them to the case conference; and all available conference participants must receive seven days notice of conference.
This bill passed the Senate (48-0).
On Thursday 2/19 at 1:30 PM, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Children & Family Services Committee in Hearing Room D in the JL O'Brien Building.

SSB 6643 - PROVIDING GUIDELINES FOR FAMILY VISITATION FOR DEPENDENT CHILDREN.
This bill provides for visitation, ands says that it shall not be limited by a parent's failure to comply. Asks the court and agency to rely on community resources, relatives, foster parents, and other appropriate persons to provide transportation and supervision for visitation to the extent that such resources are available, and the child's safety would not be compromised.
This bill passed the Senate (49-0).
On Thursday 2/19 at 1:30 PM, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Children & Family Services Committee, in Hearing Room D in the JL O'Brien Building.

CIVIL RIGHTS

HB 1809 - EXPANDING THE JURISDICTION OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION.
This bill was carried over from the first Session (2003) and re-introduced on 1/12/04. In 2003 it passed the House but not the Senate. It would amend the law against discrimination to prohibit discrimination based on a person's sexual orientation, and authorize the Human Rights Commission to charge fees to participants to cover the costs of educational programs, seminars, and training. The bill also defines "sexual orientation" and "creed." Thus, the right to be free from all forms of discrimination would apply not only to race, creed, color, national origin, sex, and disability, but also to sexual orientation. Advocates believe they have a chance to pass this bill this year; it has been introduced many years.
This bill is listed for Floor Action. It could be voted on at any time.

HB 2054 - RESTORING VOTING RIGHTS TO FELONS UPON COMPLETION OF SUPERVISION
No action in the House Committee on State Government; bill appears dead.

HB 2592 - PROHIBITING STATE DRIVER'S LICENSE OR IDENTICARD ISSUANCE IF IDENTITY CANNOT BE ESTABLISHED.
No action in the House Committee on Transportation; bill appears dead.

HB 2700/SB 6268 - PERMITTING A COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY TO MAINTAIN A DIVERSE STUDENT POPULATION BY CONSIDERING RACE, COLOR, ETHNICITY, OR NATIONAL ORIGIN, WITHOUT USING QUOTAS, POINTS, OR SET-ASIDES.
Both bills appear dead.

HB 2739/ SB 6244 - PROVIDING FUNDING FOR CERTAIN JUSTICE SYSTEM ACTIVITIES
Both bills appear dead.

HB 2772 - CONTROLLING GENETIC INFORMATION
This bill strengthens laws regarding informed consent and deals with the fundamental right of privacy with respect to genetic information. It holds that genetic information should not be collected, retained, or disclosed without the individual's authorization. The bill would thus prohibit the disclosure of genetic information without the consent of the individual to whom the information pertains; prohibit discrimination based on genetic information in employment decisions; and prohibit the use of genetic information to discriminate in a life insurance contract.
It is now in the House Rules Committee waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

SB 5430 - VERIFYING LAWFUL RESIDENCY OF DRIVER'S LICENSE APPLICANTS and
SB 5081 -VERIFYING LEGAL UNITED STATES PRESENCE is listed as a "companion bill."
Neither bill was acted on; the bills appear dead.

SB 6180 - PROHIBITING THE USE OF GENETIC INFORMATION IN EMPLOYMENT DECISIONS.
This bill would make it unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, or government entities in the state of Washington, to require - directly or indirectly - that any employee or prospective employee submit genetic information or submit to screening for genetic information as a condition of employment or continued employment.
This bill passed the Senate (49-0). It will likely be referred to the House Committee on Commerce & Labor.

SB 6181 - INCLUDING GENETIC INFORMATION AS A PROTECTED CATEGORY IN THE LAW AGAINST DISCRIMINATION
This bill appears dead.

DISABILITIES

SHB 2554/SB 6379 - DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY CHILD SUPPORT
This bill authorizes the collection of child support payments for children with developmental disabilities in out-of-home care, including foster care or in the Voluntary Placement Program.
This ostensibly helpful bill is controversial because some believe it would improve equity in the foster care system by creating inequities in the DD system. The House bill was amended to include parents of children who use institutional services (ICF/MR and nursing homes).
The Senate bill appears dead.
The House bill is in the House Rules Cttee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

SHB 2596/ SB 6388 - PROVIDING FOR EARLY INTERVENTION FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES - Birth to Three.
This bill would provide that, by September 1, 2008, each school district shall provide, or contract for, early intervention services to all eligible children with disabilities from birth to three years of age. Eligibility shall be determined according to federal law. It also establishes a birth-to-three task force to make recommendations concerning policies, procedures, and regulations in order to ensure implementation of an equitable statewide comprehensive system for all eligible children with disabilities, and report to the governor and the superintendent of public instruction by December 1, 2006, outlining their recommendations.
The Senate bill appears dead.
The House bill is on the House Floor; it may be voted on at any time.

HB 2705/SB 6442 - CREATING THE DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES COMMUNITY TRUST ACCOUNT
This bill proposes to sell or lease excess property identified in a study by the joint legislative audit and review committee (JLARC) at Rainier, Lakeland Village and Yakima Valley Residential Habilitation Centers. The proceeds would then be deposited into a perpetual trust account from which the legislature can appropriate funds for unserved persons with developmental disabilities who are waiting for community-based services. An ostensibly straight-forward issue that involves no cost, and holds out the promise of providing a source of funding for community-based services for 9,000 individuals with disabilities, this bill has run into surprising opposition. There is speculation it may relate back to sore feelings over decisions affecting FirCrest - even though that is not related to this bill. Although not strictly "companion bills," these two bills are very similar.
The House bill was amended to remove "sale" as an option for gaining revenue from the property, exclude property currently under the control of WSU (some 750 acres) from being used to benefit the trust account; and allow additional time for DSHS to plan. The
Senate Bill was amended to include the WSU acreage as excess property that can be sold or leased for the benefit of the DD Community Trust Account. If both bills pass, these differences will have to be reconciled.
The House bill is on the House Floor; it may be voted on at any time.
The Senate bill passed the Senate (49-0). It is now before the House Capitol Budget Committee.

HB 2766/ SB 6714 - EXPANDING RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CASELOAD FORECAST COUNCIL
This bill just adds developmental disability programs to the responsibilities of the caseload forecast council, along with other state programs (e.g., for medical assistance, foster care and adoption support, nursing homes and the COPES waiver for seniors and persons with physical disabilities, etc). The bill does not affect the availability of services, just a tool to assist budget writers and other planners. "Caseload," means the number of persons expected to meet eligibility requirements and require the services of various assistance programs.
Unless they are deemed "necessary to the budget," both bills are dead.

HB 2943 - REGARDING THE ADMISSIBILITY OF STATEMENTS MADE BY DEPENDENT PERSONS.
This bill appears dead.

SB 5445 - RELATING TO INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR NEURODEVELOPMENTAL THERAPIES
This bill appears dead.

HB 2663/ SB 6241 - RESPECTFUL LANGUAGE
This bill directs the code reviser to avoid references to individuals with disabilities as "disabled," "handicapped," "cripple," "mentally ill," "mentally disabled," "mentally retarded," or "developmentally disabled," and to replace, as appropriate, with the following: individuals with disabilities, individuals with mental retardation, individuals with developmental disabilities, individuals with mental illness. The purpose is to put the person, not the condition, first, as a way to restore dignity and respect. This is a no-cost item with a strong appeal. For an excellent account of the hearing on this bill, see the "ARC Insider."
The Senate bill is on the Senate Floor; it may be voted on at any time.
The House bill passed the House (95-0). It is now before the Senate Committee on Health & Long Term Care.

2SHB 2744/ SB 6419 - IMPLEMENTING THE HELP AMERICA VOTE ACT.
This bill has a simple, timely purpose: to carry out provisions of the Help America Vote Act, which includes in-person, disability access voting, using access voting devices.
The House bill is now before the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.
The Senate bill passed the Senate (47-1). It is likely to be referred to the House Committee on State Government.

On-Going Issue
There is continuing concern over the lack of funding for high school graduates in need of employment/day funding. Advocates are asking for $2 million in the Supplemental Budget to serve about 325 graduates (one-fourth of all 2003-2004 graduates).

HEALTH CARE

SHB 1498 - MODIFYING THE SCOPE OF CARE BY PHYSICAL THERAPISTS.
This bill intends that only those who meet and maintain certain standards of competance should be allowed to practice physical therapy. Under this bill, individuals may not hold themselves out to be physical therapists if they are not trained or licensed according to this Act. This bill passed the House in 2003, but not the Senate. It was re-introduced and there is an effort underway to secure passage in 2004.
This bill is on the House Floor; it may be voted on at any time.

HB 2336 - PROVIDING FOR STEM CELL RESEARCH
This bill appears dead.

HJM 4030 - ENCOURAGING STEM CELL RESEARCH
Note: HJM stands for House Joint Memorial. This is not a bill, but rather a message to the President or Congress (or other federal entity) urging consideration of a matter of importance to the state.
This Joint Memorial is now on the House Floor; it may be voted on at any time
.
SHB 2354 - ALLOWING DISCOUNTS ON MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT INSURANCE POLICIES.
Such discounts would be allowed when premiums are deposited automatically.
This bill passed the House (95-0). It is now before the Senate Committee on Health and Long-Term Care.

SHB 2460 - PROVIDING ACCESS TO HEALTH INSURANCE FOR SMALL EMPLOYERS/EMPLOYEES
This bill would permit the Insurance Commissioner to approve health insurance plans that do not include all services currently mandated. Last year a similar bill raised concerns that it might result in increased premiums for people over 40, weakened community ratings, and a narrowing of provider law. Advocates for people needing chemical dependency treatment or mental health treatment fear it would cause small employers to drop such coverage.
It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 2469 - AUTHORIZING CERTAIN STATE AGENCIES TO PURCHASE PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FROM CANADIAN WHOLESALERS AND PHARMACISTS.
This bill is largely explained by its title. In addition it would permit the Health Care Auth-ority to purchase, or facilitate the purchase of, FDA-approved drugs, and develop an internet website to facilitate the purchase of prescription drugs from Canada by WA residents.
This bill was taken up in Executive Session before the House Health Care Committee, where it got a vote of DO PASS. It involves a cost, and thus was referred to Appropriations.
It is now on the House Floor; it may be voted on at any time.

HB 2748 - DEFINING ABSTINENCE EDUCATION AND COMPREHENSIVE SEX EDUCATION FOR K-12 STUDENTS.
This bill appears dead.

HB 2749 - AFFIRMING THE RIGHT OF A WOMAN TO REFUSE TO HAVE AN ABORTION
This bill appears dead.

HB 2599 - REQUIRING INFORMED CONSENT FOR AN ABORTION
This bill appears dead.

HB 2617/SB 6223 - ESTABLISHING PARENTAL NOTIFICATION FOR ABORTION
Both bills appear dead.

NOTE: four bills dealing with abortion were the subject of a hearing before the Senate Committee on Children & Family Services in Week Two (SB 5878, SB 5879, SB 6222, and SB 6223). Further action was not taken; all now appear dead.

HB 2763/ SB 6423 - IMPROVING THE DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE SERVICES TO SCHOOL CHILDREN
Both bills appear dead.

HB 2787 - PROVIDING IMMUNITY FROM LIABILITY FOR LICENSED HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS AT COMMUNITY HEALTH CARE SETTINGS
This bill is an attempt to provide liability protection to physicians and other health care providers who take action during medical emergencies, and/or volunteer at community-based facilities providing free care to people who are uninsured and otherwise lack health care coverage. (House Bill 2461 is a bill with a similar purpose.)
It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 2788 - ESTABLISHING PRIORITY FOR FUNDS IN THE LIABILITY INSURANCE PROGRAM FOR RETIRED PRIMARY CARE PROVIDERS VOLUNTEERING TO SERVE LOW-INCOME PATIENTS.
This bill is explained by its title; it is particularly important to clinics in under-served areas.
It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 2789 - PERMITTING HEALTH INFORMATION AND DISEASE PREVENTION INSTRUCTION
This bill appears dead.

SB 5597 - PROHIBITING TOBACCO PRODUCT SAMPLING.
This bill would prohibit the distribution of tobacco product samples to members of the public, and violations would be counted as a misdemeanor.
This bill passed the Senate (41-7). It is now before the House Health Care Committee.

SB 5923 - PROTECTING ACCESS TO APPROPRIATE CARE FOR PATIENTS UNDER STATE PROGRAMS
This bill appears dead.

SB 5944 - CONCERNING THE BASIC HEALTH PLAN
This bill appears dead.

HB 1868/ SB 5791 - PROHIBITING SMOKING IN PUBLIC PLACES
This bill is carried over from 2003 and re-introduced. It provides that facilities with areas that qualify as a public place may no longer designate a part of the facility as a smoking area, and all references to designated smoking areas are removed. No person may smoke in a public place. Maximum civil penalties for violations are raised to $500. Cities, towns, and counties would be permitted to adopt more stringent ordinances to restrict smoking in public places.
The Senate bill appears dead.
The House bill is being held in the House Rules Committee, and advocates remain hopeful that it may yet be revived.

HB 1979/ SB 5876 - AUTHORIZING LOCAL GOVERNMENTS TO RESTRICT OR PROHIBIT SMOKING IN PUBLIC PLACES
This bill is carried over from 2003 and re-introduced. It provides that a city, town, or county may restrict or prohibit smoking in public places situated within its jurisdiction, including but not limited to restaurants, skating rinks, and bowling alleys, regardless of whether such restrictions or prohibitions are more restrictive than those imposed by state law.
These bills appear dead, but advocates hold out hope that one may yet be revived.

SB 6231 - PROHIBITING SMOKING IN PUBLIC PLACES.
This bill appears dead.

SB 6431 - PROVIDING HEALTH INFORMATION FOR YOUTH
This bill appears dead.

SB 6651 - MANDATING THE CREATION OF A MEDICAL NECESSITY DEFINITION.
Directs the Department of Health to adopt a new definition and decision-making process for the term "medical necessity" for use in certain programs - to save money. Although it speaks of improving health status and avoiding harm, concerns have been raised that it could limit care for children, and makes the Department the final arbiter - not the physician or health care provider - of what is appropriate. Also, decisions of DoH could not be appealed.
This bill is on the Senate Floor; it could be voted on at any time.

On-going
There are on-going issues related to the fact that recent years' budget cuts have left thousands of low-earning working families and children without affordable health coverage. Among them are 28,000 children, thousands of immigrants, and many working people who depend on the Basic Health Plan because they get no health coverage from their jobs.

Childrens' advocates are particularly concerned about the threat to childrens' health care coverage due to a proposal to impose monthly per-child health care premiums on families with incomes between 150% and 200% of the poverty line. These are not wealthy families. For a mother with two children, premiums would be required at incomes between about $23,000/year - $30,500/year; for a family of four, premiums would be expected at incomes between $27,600 - $36,800. These are working families with housing, food, child care, transportation, and a host of other expenses. If the premiums are imposed, it is feared that thousands of low-income children will lose health coverage. In August, 2003 the state got $26 million in federal child health dollars (SCHIP) that advocates want to see used to offset the need for these health care premiums; with an additional $1.2 million that would be possible. (The Governor's proposed Supplemental Budget uses the $26 million SCHIP money to eliminate premiums for families with incomes below 150% of the poverty line, and reduce the premiums for families with incomes 150 - 200% of the FPL)
So many children lost coverage as a result of changes adopted last year (over 17,000 in November and December alone), that Medicaid costs are down. The cost of avoiding premiums for the children of working families is now only about $1.2 million.

HOUSING/HOMELESSNESS

HB 2216 - PROVIDING SHORT-TERM CASH ASSISTANCE TO HOMELESS PERSONS
This bill appears dead.

HB 2578 - ADDING SITUATIONS IN WHICH CRIME VICTIMS ARE VULNERABLE DUE TO THE LACK OF A FIXED RESIDENCE… MERITING AN EXCEPTIONAL SENTENCE
This bill would specifically recognize homeless people as being especially vulnerable to those who prey upon them. Under the bill judges would be authorized to consider this "aggravating circumstance" and possibly impose an exceptional sentence for a relevant offense. This bill helps shape, but does not dictate, judicial sentencing. It is a top priority of homeless advocates this year.
This bill passed the House (70-25); it goes next to a Senate Committee.

HB 2818 - CREATING THE HOMELESS FAMILIES SERVICES FUND
This bill intends to create - with an initial investment of state funds - a fund to leverage private resources and ensure the long-term availability of stable housing to support homeless families state-wide. It recognizes that homeless families often need more than just a roof over their heads - particularly when they are fleeing from abuse or trauma, and have long periods of instability. The bill requires a report to the legislature by 12/1, 2004, with a preliminary plan for implementation of this act.
During Executive Session the appropriation was reduced from $15,000,000 to $5,000,000 to carry out the act (and keep the bill alive).
This bill passed the House (78-18). It goes next to a Senate Committee.

HB 2870 - RELOCATION ASSISTANCE FOR RESIDENTIAL TENANTS IN SUBSTANDARD HOUSING
This bill would establish a process, consistent throughout the state, by which low-income tenants would receive funds for relocation from property owners who fail to provide safe and sanitary housing after being notified of violations. The billl would establish a review process - available to property owners and tenants - and provide enforcement mechanisms to cities, towns, counties, or municipal corporations to advance funds to eligible tenants, and then later collect the full amounts of these relocation funds, along with interest and penalties, from the property owners.
This bill is now on the House Floor; it may be voted on at any time.

HB 3082/ SB 5068 - RESOLVING MANUFACTURED/MOBILE HOME LANDLORD-TENANT (MHLTA) DISPUTES
The Senate bill was carried over from 2003; the House bill was new. Its purpose is to provide a less costly and lengthy way for manufactured/mobile home landlords and tenants to resolve disputes, and to provide a mechanism for state authorities to quickly locate managers and owners of manufactured housing communities. The department of licensing would be authorized to register manufactured housing community managers, conduct investigations, issue citations, and impose fines for violations of the manufactured/mobile home landlord-tenant act. (In some states, enforcement of the MHLTA is enhanced by a $5 annual fee imposed on each mobile home space and paid by tenants to fund program costs.)
The Senate bill appears dead.
The House bill is in the House Rules Cttee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

Related items:
HOUSING TRUST FUND
Advocates are seeking an increase of $20 million (above the current $80 million capital investment) in the Housing Trust Fund, for a total of $100 million per biennium. The HTF leverages funds for low-cost housing and helps address a variety of unmet housing needs. Currently there are valid applications for twice as many dollars as are available, e.g., for self-help housing, housing for people with disabilities or fleeing from domestic violence.

DISTRIBUTION OF "2060" OPERATING FUNDS
In 2002, the legislature passed House Bill 2060, imposing a fee on documents recorded with counties. Those monies are used to fund capital costs and operations of low-income housing at the state and local levels. In order to ensure the original legislative intent for the fair distribution of funds, advocates are urging the Legislature to fine-tune this law to ensure three purposes: that all very low-income housing projects eligible to receive monies from the Housing Trust Fund are also eligible to receive these operating funds; that use of funds for new construction not be linked to local vacancy rates; and that the current 5% Relocation Assistance for Residential Tenants in Substandard Housing can cover the costs of both collecting and distributing the funds. These changes require no additional funds.

HUNGER AND NUTRITION

HB 1554 - CONCERNING FOOD STAMP ELIGIBILITY
This bill appears dead.

HB 2548 - CREATING A PILOT FOOD BANK OUTREACH PROGRAM
The pilot program is designed to locate a department of social and health services intake worker at each of 6 pilot sites a minimum of one time per week to improve access to programs and services. Three sites will be in eastern Washington and three sites in western Washington. Eligible pilot site are those with organizations providing food to hungry and low-income individuals. The Committee amended the bill to accommodate a proposal by DSHS to apply for a federal waiver of the face-to-face interview for Food
Stamp eligibility if Food Stamp Education Program staff helped the family complete their application. This waiver would greatly reduce barriers to food stamp applicants assisted by community-based FSE agencies.
This bill is now in the House Rules Cttee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 2760 - PROVIDING FOR HEALTHY FOODS FOR SCHOOL CHILDREN
This bill appears dead.

HB 2680 - REQUIRING DEVELOPMENT OF A MODEL POLICY FOR NUTRITION AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR SCHOOLS
This bill would provide for an advisory committee to develop a model policy regarding access to nutritious foods, opportunities for developmentally appropriate exercise, nutrition, and accurate information related to these topics. The Committtee would include the Department of Health, OSPI, the Washington state school directors association, and the board of health. The model policy and recommendations on the related issues, will be submitted to the governor and the legislature by January 1, 2005.
This bill passed the House (79-15); it goes next to a Senate Committee.

HB 2769 - REDUCING HUNGER
Similar (but not identical) to SB 6411, this bill attempts to deal with Washington's ranking among the "top five" hunger states. It would increase access to food stamps for eligible individuals - including through simplified reporting, and transitional benefits for families leaving TANF. It would also increase access to free and reduced price child nutrition by eligible children. The bill hopes to use greater access to food stamps and other programs to enable recipients to gain the ability to support themselves and their families.
The bill has been amended: to reduce costs for lunch (schools will only be affected if 25% or more students are eligible for free/reduced price meals and may appeal for exemption); clarify that families eligible for TANF or Basic Food are automatically eligible; and remove $300,000 that had been added as "incentive funds" to encourage schools to adopt a breakfast program. Advocates are hopeful those funds may yet be available in the budget process. The bill still improves some food stamp eligibility and reporting.
This bill is now on the House Floor; it may be voted on at any time.

SB 6525 - REQUIRING DEVELOPMENT OF A MODEL POLICY FOR NUTRITION AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR SCHOOLS.
This bill is very similar to HB 2680, above, but not a companion bill; it appears dead.

SB 5436 - REGARDING FOODS AND BEVERAGES SOLD AT PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
This bill is also similar to HB 2680 (above), but it also addresses issues the fact that while there are nutritional standards for the meals in the school breakfast and lunch programs, there are limited standards to regulate "competitive foods" sold in schools. However, since the United States Department of Agriculture calls for states and local entities to add restrictions on competitive foods, as necessary, this bill provides that, at elementary and middle schools, the sale of all foods on school grounds during regular school hours shall be approved for compliance with the applicable nutrition standards.
It is now on the Senate Floor; it could be voted on at any time.

SB 6214 - EXPANDING THE FARMERS MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, AND CHILDREN.
This bill would provide funding to expand the farmers market nutrition program into areas of the state in which agencies administering the federal women, infants, and children nutrition program do not presently receive state matching funds to participate in the program. First priority for this program expansion will be to areas of demonstrated need for, and commitment to, the program by raising local contributions to match federal funds.
The bill is dead, but its activities may yet be included in the budget.

SSB 6411 - REDUCING HUNGER
This bill would increase access to food stamps for eligible individuals - including through simplified reporting, transitional benefits for families leaving TANF, and "food stamp fairness" -- restoring benefits for groups previously excluded. Greater access to food stamps and other programs would help recipients to achieve self support. The Substitute Bill contains only the food stamp provisions of the bill.
This bill did not get acted on before the 2/10 deadline, but supporters hope some of its provisions may yet be amended onto another hunger bill.

JUVENILES/YOUTH

HB 1145 - CHANGING PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE PLACEMENT OF JUVENILES UNDER EIGHTEEN WHO HAVE BEEN CONVICTED AS ADULTS.
This bill appears dead.

SHB 1824-DEVELOPING CRITERIA TO ENSURE QUALITY CONTROL ON RESEARCH BASED TREATMENT PROGRAMS FOR JUVENILES
This bill passed the House in 2003; it has been reintroduced this session. The bill states that research based treatment programs, used with the juvenile justice system reduces recidivism rate only if such programs are delivered competently. Further, the bill directs the Washington State Institute for Public Policy to develop general criteria designed to ensure adherence to proven practices in research based treatment programs. The criteria shall include measures for ongoing and accurate monitoring and tracking of competent treatment delivery and from continual improvement of treatment delivery.
This bill remains in the House Rules Committee.

HB 1912 - ALLOWING SCHOOL BOARDS TO DECLINE TO ADMIT STUDENTS WHO ARE CONVICTED JUVENILE SEX OFFENDERS.
This bill appears dead.

SHB 2328- CHANGING PROVISIONS RELATING TO REGISTRATION OF SEX AND KIDNAPPING OFFENDERS WHO ARE STUDENTS.
Revises provisions relating to registration of sex and kidnapping offenders who are students. Requires juvenile sex offenders to notify the sheriff of their intention to attend school 10 days prior to enrolling and for the sheriff promptly to notify the school.
It is now in the House Rules Cttee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

SHB 2329 - REVISING PROVISIONS RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT FOR MINORS.
This bill tightens up the review process under the parent-initiated commitment procedure. Changes the currently unused parent-initiated process by shortening the amount of time DSHS has to conduct an external review from 7-14 days to 3-7 days. Changes the amount of time after that review for which a minor patient has to wait to contest his/her commitment in court from 5 days to 0 days. Clarifies that there is no due process for minors UNDER the age of 13 when facing commitment (this is current practice but was unclear, at best, in law). The idea behind this bill is to open up the parent-initiated procedure for use by parents and practitioners. The largest difference between the parent and the state (ITA) initiated procedure is the lower standard for commitment (parent initiated is "medically necessary", ITA is gravely disabled/harm to self or others). Therefore, this bill strengthens the due process in the parent-initiated procedure to convince practitioners to use that process without fear of a lawsuit. If practitioners then begin to use this procedure, this would allow minors to be committed under a lower standard.
This bill passed the House (80-16 ); it was referred to the Senate Children and Family Services and Corrections Committee

HB 2377- REORGANIZING PROVISIONS CONCERNING MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES FOR MINORS
This bill reorganizes the minor involuntary mental health commitment statute. The statute, as it stands, is difficult to follow because of multiple amendments and additions. The bill reorganizes the section into five topics: general, minor-initiated treatment, parent-initiated treatment, involuntary commitment and technical. It makes no substantive changes.
This bill passed the House (93-0 ); it was referred to the Senate Children and Family Services & Corrections Committee

HB 2391 - ESTABLISHING AN INCENTIVE POLICY FOR SCHOOLS TO INCREASE ATTENDANCE
This bill appears dead.

HB 2543 - ELIMINATING GANG ACTIVITY NEAR SCHOOLS
This bill appears dead.

SHB 2595 - MONITORING COMPLIANCE WITH STANDARDS REGARDING THE SALE OF VIOLENT VIDEO AND COMPUTER GAMES.
Following passage of a law restricting access to violent video and computer games by young children, this bill deals with compliance. It finds that voluntary efforts to ensure that sales and rentals comply with these industry standards have been unsuccessful in the past and protection of children requires improved self-enforcement of game sales and rentals in accordance with industry game-rating standards. This bill would establish a monitoring program, review voluntary compliance, communicate the findings to the public and the Governor, and give authority to both DCTED and an advisory group to assist in developing the monitoring program. Advisory group membership should include representatives of PTAs, law enforcement, sheriffs and police chiefs, retailers, and pediatricians.
It is now in the House Rules Cttee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

SHB 2597- DUTY OF A MEMBER OF THE CLERGY TO REPORT SEXUAL ABUSE OF A CHILD.
This bill states that when any member of the clergy has reasonable cause to believe that a child has suffered sexual abuse and the perpetrator is a member of the clergy or an employee of the church or religious organization, he or she shall report such incident, or cause a report to be made, to the proper law enforcement agency or to the Department of Social and Health Services.
It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 2628- PUBLIC ACCESS TO THE CHILD IN NEED OF SERVICES AND AT RISK YOUTH HEARINGS.
This bill states that the public will be able to attend "child in need of services", and "at risk youth" hearings, unless the judge finds that this would not be in the best interest of the child.
This bill passed the House ( ); it was referred to the Senate Children and Family Services and Corrections Committee

SSB 6431 - PERMITING HEALTH INFORMATION AND DISEASE PREVENTION INSTRUCTION
This bill appears dead.

HB 3078/SSB 6609-REVISING TIMELINES FOR SEALING JUVENILE RECORDS
This bill reduces the time that juveniles must wait to have their records sealed when they have fully complied with all the requirements necessary. Currently, all juvenile offenses are public records: anyone can see them, and, if asked, individuals must acknowledge their existence. States reserve the option of "sealing" - making records non-public - for those thought to be rehabilitated. Washington state requires the longest wait before sealing (10 years after release to seal a class B felony, 5 to seal a Class C felony, and 3 to seal a gross misdemeanor. This bill would shorten the waiting time to 5 years for a Class B, and 2 years for everything else. Class A and sex offenses will remain not sealable - as under current law.
This bill aims to assist young adults who committed a juvenile offense and have not been involved with the criminal justice system for a long time. Sealing will only be available for those who have completed all court-imposed conditions (probation, fees, treatment, etc.).
It will act as an incentive for young adults to choose crime-free lifestyles, not plagued by juvenile records at critical times, i.e., college admissions, first job, first-time independence.
The House bill passed the House (96-0); it will be referred to a Senate policy Cttee.
The Senate bill was amended on the floor and passed (49-0).
On Thursday 2/19 at 10:00 AM this bill is scheduled for possible Public Hearing before the House Juvenile Justice & Family law Committee, in House Hearing Room C of the JL O'Brien Building.

MENTAL HEALTH

HB 1828, SB 6484 - REQUIRING THAT INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES BE AT PARITY WITH MEDICAL AND SURGICAL
This remains a high priority for mental health advocates, in part because mental illness is now the single most common reason children over 4 are hospitalized, and suicide is the leading cause of death for teens. The bill stems from recognition that the costs of leaving mental disorders untreated or under-treated are significant. They often include: decreased productivity, loss of employment, increased disability costs, deteriorating school performance, increased use of other health services, treatment delays leading to more costly treatments, suicide, family breakdown and impoverishment, and institutionalization, whether in hospitals, juvenile detention, jails, or prisons. Thus, the bill maintains that it is not cost-effective to treat persons with mental disorders differently than persons with medical and surgical disorders, so insurance coverage should be required to be at parity for mental health services -- i.e., mental health coverage on the same terms as medical and surgical services. These are not "companion" bills but are very similar. Supporters point out that Parity is
supported by over 100 organizations in Washington, and voluntary offered by over 50 corporations nation-wide. Although HB 1828 has no fiscal impact on the state budget for at least five years, some members remain sceptical.
The Senate bill appears dead.
The House bill passed the House (64-33). It goes next to the Senate.

HB 2377 - REORGANIZING PROVISIONS CONCERNING MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT FOR MINORS
This is a non-controversial reordering of provisions within existing statute.
This bill passed the House (93-0). It is now in the Senate Committee on Children & Family Services & Corrections.

SHB 2460 - PROVIDING ACCESS TO HEALTH INSURANCE FOR SMALL EMPLOYERS AND THEIR EMPLOYEES
Mental Health advocates fear the title of this bill may be misleading. It permits insurance carriers to offer products with less-comprehensive coverage to small employers, makes it more difficult for individuals to get coverage at all, and may cause fewer people to have access to mental health and substance abuse-related services. The bill was amended in ways that left mental health and substance treatment advocates concerned.
It remains in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

REVENUES

WORK SESSION
On Thursday, 2/19 at 3:30 pm, the House Appropriations Committee will hold a Work Session on the Revenue Forecast Update. House Hearing Room A, JL O'Brien Building.

An issue over tax expenditures was joined this year with the Governor's proposed Supplemental Budget, which assumed renewal of R&D (research and development) tax incentives intended to stimulate job creation in high technology fields. A number of groups questioned the continuation of these tax credits on three counts: a) with the state's emergency reserves likely to be low and basic state functions under-funded (including K-12, higher education, long-term care, mental health, and more) there may be more pressing claims on those funds, b) the cost of these tax credits will be over $220 million in the next biennium, and c) there is little evidence that the tax credits create new jobs as intended.

Our tax system now provides for over 500 state and local tax breaks (exemptions,
exclusions or deductions, credits, deferrals or preferential tax rates). These tax breaks are intended to promote various goals, including: environmental protection, help to senior citizens, and job creation. The Department of Revenue estimates that total state and local tax breaks in the current biennium come to $65 billion dollars, of which $13 billion could be realized as revenue. By comparison, the 2003-2005 General Fund budget is just $23 billion.

Spending decisions are made in public view, and most carry requirements for basic accountability and/or proof of outcomes. There are no comparable requirements for the tax breaks granted by the legislature every year. It isn't that the accountability is loose, or out-dated; there currently is no systematic review of tax breaks to determine whether they achieve their intended outcomes. Several bills were proposed in this Session in an attempt to begin to bring some accountability to the state's many and costly tax expenditures. Many other bills introduced this year would renew or increase the value and/or type of tax breaks, and would thus increase the dollars lost to state coffers. (HB 2546/ SB 6239 is one such bill.)

HB 1869 - REQUIRING PERFORMANCE AUDITS FOR TAX PREFERENCES.
The bill stems from the fact that tax preferences (tax breaks) are enacted to meet certain objectives - e.g., create jobs, stimulate research. But given the changing nature of the economy, and other states' tax systems, some tax preferences may no longer be efficient. This bill would thus require periodic performance audits of tax preferences, in order to determine whether they serve the public interest. It creates a citizen commission to measure the performance of tax preferences, to develop a schedule for orderly review of tax preferences at least once every ten years, and to review tax preferences that are about to expire. The commission may omit any tax preference determined to be a critical part of the structure of the tax system. The Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee - JLARC - will also be involved.
This bill was passed by the House (58-40).
It is now in the Senate Ways & Means Committee.
.
HB 2546/ SB 6239 - MODIFYING HIGH TECHNOLOGY AND RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT TAX INCENTIVE PROVISIONS.
These companion bills embody the Governor's proposal together with related bills dealing with renewed credits in rural areas. The cost to the state treasury would be $74 million through the end of the current biennium, with an additional loss of $18 million to local governments (over $220 million in lost revenues to state and local governments, during the next biennium). Although these tax credits are intended to create jobs in Washington, it is notable in a time of limited resources, that studies by the state's Department of Revenue have found no evidence that the business tax exemptions actually create jobs in Washington State.

An effort was mounted to ensure some element of accountability in the bills, arguing that just as entities receiving direct grant expenditures from the state must show that the funds are used as intended, and must account for expected outcomes, that same standard should apply to entities receiving tax expenditures from the state. That notion met strong resistance.
Now that the bill has passed, questions have been raised about timing. Some argue that this legislation should not be signed into law until both the Revenue Forecast and the legislature's versions of the budget are available. I.e., until it is known whether there is enough room in the budget to fund education, health, and other basic services, there should be no final decision on continuing tax credits that carry no accountability.
The Senate bill passed the Senate (35-13), without the accountability and disclosure amendments being sought, but with the closing of one loophole.
The House bill passed the House (86-12); it includes some limited reporting and accountability measures, which are considered "not strong."

Three additional bills would introduce accountability for any tax credits.

HB 2654/SB 6652 - REQUIRING A TAX EXPENDITURE REPORT AS PART OF BIENNIAL BUDGET DOCUMENTS.
This bill asks the governor to prepare a tax expenditure report as part of the biennial budget documents. This report will include the listing of exemptions prepared by the Department of Revenue, and a budget analysis of each exemption. The budget analysis shall categorize each exemption according to the programs or functions each exemption supports, and include a determination of whether each exemption is the most fiscally effective means of achieving the purpose of the exemption. It would also include a determination of whether each exemption has achieved its purpose, including an analysis of the persons that are benefited by the exemption. It directs the governor to identify each exemption that will terminate during the next biennium and make a recommendation as to whether the exemption should be allowed to terminate, continue, or continue with modification.
Before passing the bill in the House, they dropped the requirement that "evaluation" of the tax credits be included in the required report. (That is covered in another bill.)
The Senate bill appears dead.
The House bill passed the House (84-12). It now goes to the Senate Ways & Means Committee.

HB 2762 - PROVIDING MANDATORY ACCOUNTABILITY FOR TAX PREFERENCES
This bill appears dead.

HB 2930 - DISALLOWING TAX EXPENDITURES THAT EXCEED A SPECIFIED LIMIT.
This bill appears dead.

SEXUAL ABUSE/DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

HB 1645/SB 5524 - ADDRESSING PROTECTION OF VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, SEXUAL ASSAULT, OR STALKING IN THE RENTAL OF HOUSING
This bill establishes provisions for the protection of victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking from discrimination in the rental of housing, eviction, or penalties that result from their victimization. After a compromise was reached between the landlords and domestic violence advocates, the bill was brought to the House floor and promptly passed.
The Senate bill remains in the Senate Rules Cttee.
The House bill passed the House (95-0). It is now in the Senate Judiciary Committee.

SHB 2392/ SSB 6161 - REQUIRING LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES TO ADOPT POLICIES CONCERNING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE BY SWORN EMPLOYEES.
This bill requires a model policy to be developed by the State Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, to deal with domestic violence by law enforcement personnel. It must be developed in collaboration with representatives from law enforcement, domestic violence advocates, and other appropriate groups. The bill requires that all law enforcement agencies either adopt the model policy or write their own -- consistent with minimum standards in the law. This bill arises from the Crystal & David Brame case and has a lot of momentum.
The House bill passed the House (95-0). It is now in the Senate Judiciary Committee.
The Senate bill passed the Senate (47-0).
On Thursday, 2/19 at 10:00 am, the Senate bill will get a Public Hearing before the House Juvenile Justice & Family Law Committee, in House Hearing Room C, of the JL O'Brien Building.

HB 2395 - MODIFYING THE STATUE OF LIMITATIONS FOR CHILDHOOD SEXUAL ABUSE CIVIL CASES
This bill revises, and in certain cases, extends the statue of limitations for civil cases involving the reporting of childhood sexual abuse.
This bill passed the House (95-0). It is now in the Senate Judiciary Committee.

SHB 2397/ SSB 6384 - IMPOSING PENALTIES AGAINST CONVICTED DOMESTIC VIOLENCE OFFENDERS TO PAY FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PROGRAMS
This bill would establish a penalty to hold convicted domestic violence offenders accountable while requiring them to pay penalties to offset the costs of domestic violence advocacy and prevention programs. The penalties imposed would be used for established domestic violence prevention and prosecution programs. This assessment would be in addition to any other penalty, restitution, fines, or costs provided by law. Revenues would be used solely for the purposes of funding domestic violence advocacy and domestic violence prevention and prosecution programs in the city or county of the court imposing the assessment.
The Senate bill passed the Senate (49-0). It goes next to a Senate Committee.
The House bill passed the House (95-0). It is now in the Senate Judiciary Committee.

HB 2400 - PROVIDING ENHANCED PENALTIES FOR SEX CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN.
This bill appears dead.

HB 2456 - ESTABLISHING PROVISIONS FOR DICLOSURE OF SEXUAL MISCONDUCT BY APPLICANTS FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYMENT
This bill requires that school districts must provide known information regarding employee's sexual misconduct when those employees attempt to transfer to different school districts.
This bill passed the House (97-0). It goes next to a Senate Committee.

HB 2481 - INCREASING MARRIAGE LICENCSE FEES TO FUND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PROGRAMS
Increase fees from Marriage Licenses would be used to create the domestic violence prevention account, in the custody of the state treasurer. All receipts from the marriage license fee must be deposited into the account and only the Department of Social and Health Services will have authority to make expenditures from the account. Expenditures from the account will only be used to fund community-based services for victims of family violence.
It passed the House (56-40). It goes next to a Senate Committee.

SB 6111 - REQUIRING LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES TO ADOPT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE POLICIES.
This bill appears dead.

SB 6159 - PROHIBITING SIGNATURE GATHERING BY SEX OFFENDERS
This bill appears dead.

SB 6170 - LIMITING SUPPRESSION OF INFORMATION ABOUT MISCONDUCT OF SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES
This bill appears dead.

SB 6171 - REGARDING INVESTIGATIONS OF COMPLAINTS AGAINST SCHOOL EMPLOYEES
This bill authorizes the Superintendent of Public Instruction to conduct investigations of any complaint against a school employee as may be necessary to establish a violation of any rules, regulations, or personnel policies established by that employee's school district. Requires that investigations into sexual misconduct towards a child be completed within a year, and provides monetary penalty for delay. It also provides for a finding of contempt if any person subpoenaed to give testimony cannot show cause for refusal to testify.
This bill passed the Senate (49-0). It is now in the House Education Committee.

SB 6220 - REGARDING SCHOOL EMPLOYEE DUTY TO REPORT SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT
(Passed the Senate 48-0; see item under CHILD WELFARE/CHILDRENS ISSUES)

HB 3069 / SB 6443 - PROVIDING PROTOCOLS FOR SERVICES TO VICTIMS OF TRAFFICKING OF HUMANS
While not exactly "companion bills" these bills are very close.
This bill intends to improve the response of state, local, and private entities to incidents of trafficking of humans in order to provide better investigations and prosecutions of such acts and to establish a coordinated system of identifying the needs of victims. The purpose is to deliver appropriate services in a way that promotes safety and dignity. Since there are many state agencies and private organizations that might provide services, victims of trafficking would be better served if protocols are developed for training of service delivery agencies staff and the delivery of services. By 7/1/04, a work group will be convened to develop written protocols for delivery of services to victims of trafficking, and by 1/1/05, the work group shall finalize the written protocols and report to the legislature and the governor.
The House bill appears dead.
NOTE: The Senate bill may be revived as part of SB 5631, which is now on the Senate Floor.

SB 6444 - CREATING AN AWARD FOR FIGHTING HUMAN TRAFFICKING OR AIDING THE VICTIMS OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING
This bill appears dead.

Coming
Domestic Violence advocates are seeking $4.5 million in the Supplemental Budget, primarily for shelter and related services, to offset cuts in federal and local funding, help meet growing need, and to strengthen existing services.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE/TREATMENT

Work Session:
On Wednesday, 2/18 at 1:30 pm, there will be a Work Session before the House Criminal Justice & Corrections Committee, on the effectiveness and availability of drug treatment for prison bound offenders. In House Hearing Room E, JL O'Brien Building.

HB 2014, SB 5964 - PREVENTING DENIAL OF INSURANCE FOR INJURIES CAUSED BY NARCOTIC OR ALCOHOL USE
This bill is carried over from 2003 and re-introduced. It holds that an insurer may not deny coverage for the treatment of an injury solely because the injury was sustained as a consequence of the insured's being intoxicated or under the influence of a narcotic.
The Senate bill is on the Senate Floor; it may be voted on at any time.
The House bill passed the House. It is in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Cttee.

HB 2324 - INCREASING PENALTIES FOR DRIVING OR PHYSICAL CONTROL WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE.
This bill appears dead.

HB 2365 - ALLOWING AN OFFENDER TO ASK THE COURT FOR ADMISSION TO DRUG COURT
This bill appears dead.

HB 2556/ SB 6255 - STUDYING CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK PROCESSES.
This bill attempts to deal with the growing number of requests for criminal background checks - for many types of employment - and the inability of the system to keep pace. The bill asks the Washington association of sheriffs and police chiefs, in consultation with the Washington State Patrol, to conduct a study on criminal background checks. It would focus on how the state can reduce delays in the criminal background check processing time and how we can make criminal background checks more accessible and efficient. Their findings and recommendations will be presented to the legislature no later than 12/31/04.
The House bill passed the House (96-0). It goes next to a Senate Committee.
The Senate bill passed the Senate (49-0). It is now in the House Criminal Justice & Corrections Committee.

WELFARE

Work Session
On Wednesday, 2/18 at 8:00 am, there will be a Work Session on the WorkFirst Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Pathway. Before the House Committee on Children & Family Services, in House Hearing Room D, of the J.L. O'Brien Building.

HB 1704 - ALLOWING LANDLORDS TO RECEIVE DIRECT PAYMENTS OF RENT FOR PEOPLE ON PUBLIC ASSISTANCE.
This bill appears dead.

HB 3121/ SB 6556 - REVISING THE WASHINGTON TELEPHONE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Both bills appear dead.

SB 5249 - CREATING THE HIGHER EDUCATION FOR LIFELONG PROGRESS PROGRAM (HELP)
This bill appears dead.

SB 5294 - CLARIFYING THE WORK STUDY ASPECT OF "WORK ACTIVITY" UNDER TANF
This bill appears dead.

SB 5636 - EXEMPTING VICTIMS OF FAMILY VIOLENCE FROM CERTAIN TANF REQUIREMENTS.
This bill appears dead.

HB 2877/ SB 6524 - REVISING PROVISIONS RELATING TO GUARDIANSHIP OF DEPENDENT CHILDREN
This bill would change guardianship for some children who cannot live with their parents. It declares an intent to enhance family preservation and stability for children by recognizing the value of permanent placement with relatives or other long-term caregivers, dismissal of dependencies, and expanded opportunities for children to remain with relatives or long-term caregivers who are willing and able to serve as guardians for the children.
The House bill is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.
The Senate bill is now in the Senate Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

SB 6559 - REVISING TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES -TANF
This bill emphasizes once again the intent of the Washington WorkFirst program to be a focus on obtaining paid, unsubsidized employment for all recipients. It reiterates the temporary nature of assistance as a short-term transitional experience, not a way of life; while assisting families to receive the child care and health care they need as they move from welfare to work. To that end, the bill makes major changes to the state's welfare program, Work First. Job-ready applicants would be required to engage in job search for 30 days before they can receive their TANF cash grant, delaying cash assistance for most families by one month. The only exception would be for families with written documentation that they have applied for at least 3 jobs per day, or 15 jobs/week before applying for aid, a test few people could meet. The bill would increase the sanctions for not participating in the Work First program (a 40% grant reduction, and use of "protective payees"), among other things.
This bill is now on the Senate Floor; it may be voted on at any time.

On-going
There is continuing concern over funding for GAU - General Assistance for the Unemployable. Last year there was a forecasting under-estimate in the GAU caseload, which went up slightly (not declined, as anticipated). That produced a $25 million shortfall. The Governor included the money needed to cover current caseloads, but legislators will need to agree - and GAU funds are always a tempting target. Any potential short-fall is worrisome for two reasons since they tend to mean caseload restrictions: The grant is only $339 a month to meet all needs of people who are Unemployable due to physical or mental disabilities, and losing GAU often means losing shelter, services, and medical coverage.

MISCELLANEOUS

Policy Watch got questions about the following items. They are listed here FYI; for further information go to www.leg.wa.gov, click on Bill Info. Enter the bill number to read the text.

HJM 4040 - REQUESTING CONGRESS TO PASS A FEDERAL 211 ACT
This Joint Memorial is now on the House Floor; it may be voted on at any time.

HJM 4033 - EXPRESSING CONCERN ABOUT THE USA PATRIOT ACT
This Joint Memorial appears dead.

HJM 4042 - REQUESTING CHANGES IN THE NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND ACT
This Joint Memorial was passed by the House (96-0). It goes next to the Senate.
NOTE: A Joint Memorial is not a bill, but is a message to the President and/or Congress, asking their attention to a matter of importance to the state.

2SHB 1840 / SB 5869 - AUTHORIZING NONPROFIT CORPORATIONS TO PARTICIPATE IN SELF-INSURANCE RISK POOLS.
This bill attempts to deal with the problem in obtaining affordable liability insurance faced by certain nonprofit corporations, e.g., those providing specialized transportation services to groups with special needs, such as seniors and disabled persons.
The Senate bill passed the Senate (48-1). It is now in the House Committee on Financial Institutions & Insurance.
The House bill passed the House (96-0). It is now in the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Insurance & Housing.

SB 5697 - MODIFYING INFLATIONARY ADJUSTMENT TO MINIMUM WAGE
This bill would freeze the state's minimum wage, and eliminate the voter-mandated inflationary adjustments - except when the state unemployment rate is below the national. (E.g., if SB 5697 been in place since 1992, the state minimum wage would only have gone up from $4.25 to $4.42 an hour.)
This bill passed the Senate (27-22). It is in the House Cttee on Commerce and Labor.

HB 2981/ SB 6605 - DECLARING THE EXCLUSIVE AUTHORITY OF THE STATE TO ESTABLISH MINIMUM WAGE AND HOUR STANDARDS.
This bill would remove the right of local governments to enact municipal minimum wages or living wage ordinances -- like one adopted by the City of Bellingham. These ordinances often set higher minimum wages for businesses that contract with local governments.
In the Senate Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

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