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Welcome to Policy Watch 2005

WEEK 5

POLICY WATCH is a weekly bulletin about issues and events in Olympia, WA during the 15-week legislative session. It is part of the CIVIC ENGAGEMENT PROJECT, an effort to increase involvement in the legislative process through information and advocacy training.

POLICY WATCH has three parts.
PART I: Basic Information for contacting legislators, getting information. Click here for Part I.
PART II: A description of what is happening week by week in Olympia - the process.
PART III: 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

PART II – THE PROCESS
WEEK FIVE IN OLYMPIA

THE SCENE

The process is shifting into a higher gear. For those who like numbers, here are two: there have been 901 bills introduced in the Senate, 968 bills introduced in the House. The range of bill topics is enormous: forest lands, special license plates, motorist signs, naming the Orca the state marine mammal and the Walla Walla sweet onion the state vegetable, soil contaminants, prescription drugs, ending homelessness, criminal sentencing… and much, much, more. At this point the fate of most of those bills is still uncertain, but that is rapidly changing.

To the Olympia “regulars,” some things are clear: the Session is one-third over, lobby days are more frequent, there are more bills listed for action by every Committee every day, and more people turn up in Olympia to take part (at one Public Hearing, 50 people signed up to testify).

The Process – “Cut-Off dates”

To people involved in the process there is also the fact that only about two weeks remain before the first “cut-off” date.

At the end of the day on Wednesday, March 2, all of the Policy Committees will “cut off” further action on the bills introduced in their body. Thus, any bill introduced in the House must have gotten a Public Hearing and a positive (DO PASS) vote in the Executive Session of the House Policy Committee to which it was referred -- or it dies. Any bill introduced in the Senate must have gotten a Public Hearing and a positive (DO PASS) vote in an Executive Session in the Senate Policy Committee to which it was referred – or it dies.

So everyone who knows the process and cares about a bill is trying to make sure that bill gets “heard” (i.e., gets a Public Hearing in a Policy Committee) and gets “exec’t’d” (i.e., gets voted on in an Executive Session) as soon as possible. If a bill you care about has not yet had a Public Hearing, and/or been scheduled for an Executive Session - speak up: time is running out.

Newcomers to the process sometimes assume the “cut-off date” is the last date to get their ideas to a legislator, or a bill introduced. A bill could certainly be introduced on March 2, but the chances that it could get referred to a Committee, get a Public Hearing, and be brought to a vote in an Executive Session by the end of the day – bumping ahead of all the other bills already lined up and waiting for action – are less than zero. Those “cut-off dates” are a respected matter for internal discipline. They keep the legislative session moving forward, on schedule, and help to minimize the need for any sort of overtime.

Influencing this stage in the process.

As with so much in our representative democracy, ordinary citizens can even influence whether a bill gets scheduled for Committee action. One way is to check and see if your Senator or Representative sits on the relevant Committee. If s/he does, ask them to ask the Committee Chair to move the bill. Another way to influence the process is to make sure the relevant Committee Chair is getting calls and letters from constituents in their Legislative District, urging action on the bill. And everyone in the state can contact legislators in the Leadership. If the Speaker of the House, the Minority Leader of the House, and their counter-parts in the Senate, get a flood of calls/letters/visits, urging them to see that a certain bill is considered, chances increase that they’ll have a little chat with the Committee Chair in question.

Then, when your bill is scheduled for a Public Hearing – try to attend. Sign the “sign in sheet” to let members of the Committee know that people came from around the state who care. This week those present for a complex new bill dealing with mental health and substance abuse issues did more than just passively sit. When one witness made a comment that many in the audience thought was incorrect, they vigorously shook their heads NO. The witness couldn’t see their head-shaking (witnesses face the legislators, not the room), but all of the Senators did. And when the Committee Chair said something they liked, the people in the room shook their heads YES.

Can’t make it to Olympia? That’s no reason not to be involved – as two nurses quickly learned on their first visit to the Capitol. While waiting to visit one of their legislators, they fell into conversation with a woman who works on policy issues for House members. When she learned they were nurses with an interest in childhood asthma, she urged them to go see her colleague - the person working on a bill to change auto emission standards. Minutes later the nurses were talking to the Committee staff, and when she learned they were nurses with an interest in asthma - quickly made a similar request: “…could you come back to testify? No… well could you submit a statement in writing? The Committee needs to hear from people like you….” Less than an hour later they sat in on a weekly meeting of child advocates, and learned that a bill to increase the number of school nurses had been introduced. After the meeting, they sought out a PTA lobbyist who was present. One nurse mentioned her experience volunteering at her child’s school because there was no nurse on duty -- and wound up being asked to send in written testimony for an upcoming hearing.

PRACTICAL TIP: If you want to submit written testimony for a Public Hearing that you cannot attend in person, send it to the relevant Committee (Committee information is listed with every bill in Policy Watch. Or look up the bill – it’s noted near the top. Just go to “BILL INFORMATION” at www.leg.wa.gov. Write the bill number into the box marked “FIND BILLS” and learn which Committee the bill was referred to.)

Here’s one Committee staff person’s advice for developing a good hand out or written submission for distribution to the legislators at a hearing. Send it via email, or regular mail.

* Keep it short – no more than one page.

* State the Bill Number or issue right at the top.

* Briefly set out your main points in “bullets.”

* Summarize your presentation and the reasoning behind your position; for any complex

or technical information, attach a FACT SHEET.

* If you send paper copies, not an electronic Attachment, put it on colored paper –

so it will stand out.

* Check with the Committee staff to learn how many copies they want (some ask for as

many as 50 – 100 copies: enough for each Committee member, each of their staff,

and the staff of the Committee itself).

* Be sure to include your name, address, and contact information; include the name of

your group or organization if you have one.

* If you are speaking only for yourself, but belong to a larger organization, make that clear.

* Send copies to your own Senator and two Representatives if they are not on the Committee.

The one surprising item on her list: the number of copies you should bring.

SNAPSHOTS.

** Among this week’s citizen lobbyists: about 100 homeless youth, youth in foster care, and their supporters, including one young man in a suit and tie, hair cut in a mohawk (he and his rural Republican Representative had a great meeting). They came to tell their stories and ask support for bills important to them. And, when news came that the Anti-discrimination Bill of 2005 had just passed on the House Floor – the room erupted in cheers.

** Think legislators just say what visitors want to hear? Think again. After making a plea on behalf of immigrant children who lack health care, one visitor got a very candid reaction from her Representative. He supported the bill, “…but he was not very encouraging about the budget for my issue, or for other human services.” (Good advocates will take the cue – and try harder.)

** During a Public Hearing on a particularly long and complicated bill, one witness was especially effective. For each of his major points he had a clear, simple, one-page handout for the Senators. Despite the bill’s complexities, his points were clear.

** More Olympia jargon. Some days it helps to know Latin – legislative jargon is peppered with Latin terms. For example, the President Pro Temp is a Senator who fills in “for the time” as temporary President of the Senate. An “omnibus” bill is a big comprehensive bill, one dealing with all (omni) items at once. And “Sine die” is heard at the very end of the session, when the last gavel comes down without (sine) naming the day (die) for the legislature to reconvene.

Gender Watch : There are 12 Legislative Districts in which the Senator and both Representatives are men, but only 2 in which the Senator and both Representatives are women.

 

PART III - SOME ISSUES

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


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.

 

 

AGING/LONG-TERM CARE

HB 1041 – REVISING THE NURSING FACILITY MEDICAID PAYMENT SYSTEM.
In Week Three, this bill got a Public Hearing before the House Committee on Appropriations. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1078 – TRANSFERRING THE HOME CARE QUALITY AUTHORITY TO THE DEPT. OF SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES.
This bill would change the role of a board that was established in 2001, which included consumers of both private and publicly funded in-home care services, plus representatives from the State Council on Aging, Area Agency on Aging, Governor's Committee on Disabilities and Employment Issues and the Developmental Disabilities Council. At issue are matters affecting seniors and persons with disabilities who live in their own homes, rather than institutional settings such as nursing homes, who get long-term in-home care from individual providers hired directly by them, under the medicaid personal care, community options, or chore services program. This bill would reduce the consumer operated, policy development board to an advisory capacity, and does not provide for policy and rule development by the board - as is currently the case. It apparently stems from a desire by Governor Locke’s staff to reduce the number of boards and commissions.
The House bill was referred to the House Committee on Health Care

Prescription Drugs

In Week Five, there was an Executive Session before the House Appropriations Committee, on bills dealing with the purchase of Prescription drugs.
All four were voted DO PASS and sent to the House Rules Committee, to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 1168 – AUTHORIZING THE STATE BOARD OF PHARMACY TO REGULATE NONRESIDENT CANADIAN PHARMACIES.

HB 1194 – REGARDING REIMPORTATION OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS.

HB 1219 – AUTHORIZING A PRESCRIPTION DRUG PURCHASING CONSORTIUM

HB 1316 – ALLOWING THE IMPORTATION OF CERTAIN PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FROM CANADIAN WHOLESALERS

HB 1220/ SB 5442 – ESTABLISHING A JOINT LEGISLATIVE AND EXECUTIVE TASK FORCE ON LONG-TERM CARE FINANCING AND CHRONIC CARE MANGE’T
This bill would create a joint task force composed of key members of the Governor’s Cabinet and the Legislature. The joint task force will submit a series of reports and recommendations to the governor and appropriate committees of the legislature in 2006 and 2007.
Referred to the House Committee on Health Care. No hearing scheduled yet.
In Week Five, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1571/ SB 5569 – REVISING THE NURSING FACILITY PAYMENT SYSTEM.
This bill stems from issues related to Medicaid, a federal-state program in which roughly half the funds come from the state and the state has broad discretion in setting eligibility and funding criteria, in this case for nursing homes. There are about 12,000 Washington residents receiving long-term care in 220 certified nursing home facilities. As health care costs continue to rise, budgeting for programs dependent on Medicaid, like nursing homes, gets more difficult. All but two of cost components in nursing facility Medicaid payments are currently based on 1999 costs; this bill would require more frequent adjustments.
The House bill was referred to the House Committee on Appropriations.
In Week Five, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

SB 5277 – REQUIRING PLANS THAT PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR PROSTHESES TO PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR HEARING AIDS.
In Week Three, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

CHILDREN

HB 1052/ SB 5047 – PREVENTION QUALITY CONTROL COUNCIL
This bill would create a prevention quality council to: 1) Identify state agencies operating or funding prevention programs; 2) Review research finding and recommendations; 3) Identify gaps in available research and make recommendations to the legislature for future research; 4) Certify evidence-based prevention programs for state funding; and 5) recommend legislation modifying duties of state agencies to achieve the purposes of this act. Relevant state agencies will submit biennial reports, describe their prevention programs, and the percentage of state funds being expended on evidence-based programs – among other things.
In Week One the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections. Eligible for Executive Session.
In Week Five, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the House Children & Family Services Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1097/ SB 5104 – KEEP KIDS SAFE LICENSE PLATE
Creates a “Keep Kids Safe” license plate to raise money for projects of the Washington Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect.
On Monday 2/14 at 3:30 pm, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Transportation Committee in House Hearing Room B in the O’Brien Building. Also On TVW.
In Week Five, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Transportation Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1178- ENSURING THE RIGHTS OF PARENTS TO MONITOR THE COMMUNICATIONS AND CONVERSATIONS OF THEIR MINOR CHILDREN
This bill would change state privacy laws to allow parents to monitor their minor children’s communications without legal restriction or penalty.
In Week Four this bill got a Public Hearing before the House Judiciary Committee.

HB 1278 - REGARDING THE INVESTIGATION OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT
This bill requires the Department of Social and Health Services to include in its investigation a review of any sibling records, whether the sibling resides in, or visits the home of, the child who was the basis of the complaint, or if there is an imminent risk of harm to the sibling.
In Week Four, this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Children & Family Services Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1605 – PROTECTING CHILDREN FROM AREA WIDE SOIL CONTAMINATION
This bill finds that emissions from certain industrial practices have contributed to arsenic and lead soil contamination covering dispersed areas in the state. Seeks to establish through the relevant state departments an area wide soil contamination school and child care facility certification program for schools and child care facilities within area wide soil contamination zones to reduce the risk of exposure.
On Thursday 2/17 at 8 am, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Natural Resources, Ecology & Parks Committee in Hearing Room D in the O’Brien Building. On TVW.

SB 5125 - REDUCING HEAVY METALS IN CHILD USE AREA SOILS
This bill intends to create the safe playground soils program, through which technical and financial assistance will be provided by state and local health jurisdictions to the owner and operators of facilities having child use areas that may contain soil with elevated levels of heavy metals. This bill would also encourage testing of the soil in such areas, and require testing in geographic zones at higher risk of soil contamination.
In Week Five, this bill got an Executive Session in the Senate Water, Energy & Environment Committee. It was amended and recommended DO PASS.
It is now in the Senate Ways & Means Committee.

SB 5188 - CREATING THE CHILDREN’S ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND PROTECTION ADVISORY COUNCIL
This bill would establish a 15-member Children’s Environmental and Health Advisory Council.
It recognizes that children face many preventable exposures to environmental hazards in their schools, homes, and communities and may be at greater risk than adults. This is due both to their behaviors and to the immaturity of their body organs and immune systems. The bill recognizes that higher rates of poverty place children of ethnic and minority communities at greater risk for environmental exposures due to poor housing, poor nutrition, and limited access to health care.
In Week Two, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Health & Long term Care Cttee.
SB 5189 - REDUCING CHILDHOOD LEAD EXPOSURE
This bill directs the Department of Health to implement a public health education program aimed at reducing childhood exposure to lead in residential settings. Continues efforts to identify areas around the state where lead exposure poses a threat, and requires a special focus on older housing stock, and lead-based paint. Directs the department to seek federal funding for the lead hazards project and releases the Department of this requirement if federal funds are not obtained.
In Week Two, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Health & Long term Care Cttee.

SB 5269 - MAINTAINING THE RESIDENTIAL PARENTING PROGRAM AT THE WOMEN’S CORRECTIONAL CENTER
This bill requires the Department of Corrections to maintain a residential parenting program at its major correctional institution for women to allow eligible inmates to keep infants with them during their incarceration. The program shall provide an appropriate living situation for the infants, promote positive parenting skills, and facilitate transition back into the community
Referred to the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. No Hearing yet.

SB 5308 - CHANGING PROVISIONS RELATING TO MANDATORY REPORTING OF CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT
This bill expands reporting requirements. It provides that when any person - in his or her official supervisory capacity with a nonprofit or for-profit organization - has a reasonable cause to believe a child has suffered abuse or neglect caused by a person over whom s/he exercises supervisory authority, the incident must be reported to the proper law enforcement agency.
In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

SB 5309 - REVISING DEFINITION OF “ABUSE OF A SUPERVISORY POSITION”
This bill expands a key definition. It provides that “abuse of a supervisory position” means a direct or indirect threat, or promise to use authority to the detriment or benefit of a minor, or the use of a significant relationship to obtain consent of a minor.
In Week Four this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Service & Corrections Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

SB 5311 - CREATING AN AUTISM TASK FORCE
This bill creates a task force to study and make recommendations to the legislature regarding the growing incidence of autism, and ways to improve the delivery and coordination of autism services. The task force will submit its findings to the Legislature and Governor by 12/06.
Referred to the Senate Health & Long Term Care Committee. No Hearing yet.

SB 5350 – SHARED PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY
This bill creates a presumption that (with few exceptions) shared parenting is in a child’s best interest when a parenting plan is being developed as part of a divorce proceeding. Domestic violence advocates are concerned because domestic violence victims are often not represented in family law situations, and there may be issues of potential future abuse in a shared parenting arrangement that may not be taken into account.
In Week Five, this bill got an Executive Session in the Senate Judiciary Committee. It was not given a recommendation and was referred to the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee.

SB 5633 – REVISING PROVISIONS RELATING RETENTION OF INFORMATION CONCERNING UNFOUNDED ALLEGATIONS OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT
This bill amends the time that the Department of Social and Health (DSHS) services can maintain files for unfounded referrals or reports of child abuse and neglect - from six years to one year. It also establishes that if DSHS does not comply, aggrieved persons
could institute proceedings in the Superior Court for the county in which the person lives in.
In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Correction Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.
SB 5600 – ENCOURAGING EMPLOYERS TO BE INFANT FRIENDLY
This bill states that an employer, if requested by an employee, is encouraged to become infant-friendly. Existing law defines ‘infant-friendly’ (e.g. flexible work scheduling, privacy for breastfeeding, clean and safe water, etc).
On Monday 2/14 at 10:00 am, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Labor Commerce, Research and Development Cttee. Senate Hearing Room 4, Cherberg Building.

SB 5872 – CREATING A DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY & CHILDREN
This bill would create a new government agency. It provides that all powers, duties, and functions of the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) pertaining to children and family services, and the Juvenile Rehabilitation Administration are transferred to a new Department of Family and Children’s Services.
On Thursday 2/17 at 8:00 am, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Senate Hearing Room 1 of the Cherberg Building.

SB 5873 – REVISING THE DUTIES OF THE FAMILY AND CHILDREN’S OMBUDSMAN
This bill requires the ombudsman to assess individual casework of randomly chosen caseload carrying child protective services and child welfare services employees of the department of social and health services throughout the state. Casework reviewed must be from any currently open cases and cases closed within the last year. Assessment must address employee compliance with the full range of; policies, laws, risk assessment, and investigation. This bill also requires a similar assessment of supervisors.
On Thursday 2/17 at 8:00 am, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Senate Hearing Room 1 of the Cherberg Building.

SB 5875 – CLARIFYING THE INTERESTS OF PARENTS AND ALLEGED FATHERS UNDER THE JUVENILE COURT ACT
This bill adds to the definition of “parent” one that means an individual who has established a parent-child relationship under the law, unless the legal rights of that person have been terminated by a judicial proceeding or the equivalent laws of another state or a federally recognized Indian tribe.
On Thursday 2/17 at 8:00 am, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Senate Hearing Room 1 of the Cherberg Building.

CHILD WELFARE/CHILDRENS' ISSUES

Work Session:
On Wednesday 2/16 at 8 am, there will be a work session on Racial Disproportionality in the Child Welfare System in King County, in the House Children & Family Services Committee. House Hearing Room D, in the O’Brien Building.

SHB 1190/ SB 5213 - SUPPORTING LONG TERM SUCCESS OF FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN BY REMOVING BARRIERS TO TEMPORARY ASSISTANCEFOR NEEDY FAMILIES AND THE WORKFIRST PROGRAM
This bill would allow the State to opt out of some of the federal restrictions to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Under these provisions, individuals who would have been ineligible to receive TANF benefits (through WorkFirst) because of a drug related felony conviction, or lack of drug assessment or treatment, would now be eligible for benefits.
In Week Two, the Senate bill was heard in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.
In Week Five, this bill got an Executive Session in the House Children & Family Services Committee. It was amended and voted DO PASS. It is now in the House Appropriations Committee.

SHB 1280 - EXTENDING THE KINSHIP CARE OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
This bill extends the Kinship Care Oversight Committee and its duties.
In Week Five, this bill got an Executive Session in the House Children & Family Services Committee. It was amended and voted DO PASS. It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.
HB 1281 - EXPANDING THOSE WHO CAN GIVE CONSENT FOR MEDICAL CARE FOR MINORS
This bill adds to the list of persons who may give informed consent to medical care for minors, and provides immunity to health care providers and facilities when they rely on a person claiming to be responsible for the care of a minor. This bill intends to assist children in the care of kin, and to help kinship caregivers access appropriate medical care for a child in their care.
On Monday 2/14 at 1:30 pm, this bill will have an Executive Session in the House Children & Family Services Committee. House Hearing Room D in the O’Brien Building. (This was rescheduled from last week.)
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HB 1391 – ESTABLISHING A WORK GROUP TO STUDY SERVICES AND PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN
This bill directs the Department of Social and Health Services to establish a work group to study the regulation of services and programs for children provided by licensed child care providers and programs provided by local governments across the state.
In Week Four this bill got a Public Hearing in House Children & Family Services Cttee.

HB 1403/ SB 5053 – AUTHORIZING SERVICE BY PUBLICATION IN ACTIONS TO ESTABLISH OR MODIFY PARENTING PLANS FOR LEGAL SEPARATION OR INVALIDITY OF MARRIAGE, AND FOR NON-PARENTAL CUSTODY
This bill concerns the publication of actions to modify or establish parenting plans in cases of legal separation, invalidity of a marriage, and for non-parental custody cases.
In Week Four, the Senate bill got an Executive Session in the Senate Judiciary Committee. It was given a recommendation of DO PASS without amendments.
In Week Five, the House bill got an Executive Session in the House Juvenile Justice & Family Law Committee. It was given a recommendation of DO PASS without amendments.

SHB 1426/ SB 5407 - ESTABLISHING AN INTERAGENCY PLAN FOR CHILDREN OF INCARCERATED PARENTS
This bill creates an interagency plan to coordinate and expand existing services for these families to improve the well-being of children of incarcerated parents, over both the short and long term.
In Week Five, the House bill got an Executive Session in the House Children & Family Services Committee. It was amended and voted DO PASS.
In Week Three, the Senate bill got both a Public Hearing and had an Executive Session in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. It was voted DO PASS and is now in the Senate Rules Committee waiting to be brought to the Senate Floor for a vote.

HB 1467 – REQUIRING MANDATORY REPORTING OF ABUSE OR NEGLECT OF A CHILD WHEN DISCOVERED BY A PERSON CONNECTED WITH SPECIFIED NON-PROFIT ENTITIES.
This bill is very similar to SB 5308, however it only includes a person who is an employee, contractor, or volunteer of a nonprofit. (SB 5308 includes both for-profits and non-profits.)
On Monday 2/14 at 1:30 pm, this bill is scheduled for Possible Executive Session in the House Children & Families Committee. House Hearing Room D in the O’Brien Building.
HB 1482 – REVISING PROVISIONS ON CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT
This bill modifies the statutory definitions of abuse or neglect, and negligent treatment or maltreatment; it modifies language around the Department of Social and Health Services’ duty to investigate reports of child abuse and neglect. Additionally, if (following an investigation) the child’s parents, guardian, or legal custodians volunteer to address the concerns raised by the investigation, e.g., through participation in needed services and treatment, the Department may agree to let the child remain in the home. If the parents refuse to accept - or fail to obtain - appropriate treatment or services, the Department may initiate a dependency proceeding.
On Monday 2/14 at 1:30 pm, this bill will get an Executive Hearing in the House Children & Families Committee. House Hearing Room D in the O’Brien Building.

HB 1663 – CREATING THE PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION INVESTMENT COUNCIL
This bill creates a council to direct and support the following: (1) The investment of state resources in evidence-based prevention and intervention programs in the state; and (2) ongoing research and evaluation of sound, theory-based prevention and intervention programs - with the goal of expanding the number and type of available evidence-based programs.
In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Children & Family Services Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

SB 5666 – REGARDING INFORMATION SHARING IN CHILD DEPENDENCY CASES
In order to aid in the prevention of tragic deaths of children in the child welfare system, those responsible for making placement decision in cases of child abuse or neglect should have the relevant evidence available to them to aid them in making placement decisions that will best protect the safety and welfare of the child.
In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

 

DISABILITIES

HB 1040 – REGARDING THE OPERATION OF HABILITATION CENTERS.
This bill proposes the closure of Fircrest, a state-run institution for people with
developmental disabilities.
Referred to the House Committee on Children & Family Services. No hearing scheduled.

HB 1107/SB 5141 – PROVIDING FOR EARLY INTERVENTION SERVICES FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES.
This bill would require school districts to provide for early intervention services to all eligible children with disabilities from birth to three years of age, and establish a birth-to-three task force to make recommendations to the Governor and Superintendent of Public Instruction for policies, procedures, and regulations for a statewide comprehensive system for all eligible children.
In Week Four, the House bill went to Executive Session, and was voted Do Pass by the House Cttee on Children & Family Services. It is now in the House Appropriations Committee.
In Week Four, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Cttee on Early Learning, K-12, and Higher Education. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1122 – PROVIDING FOR TRAINING TEACHERS FOR THE DEAF.
This bill would provide an incentive for institutions of higher education to develop curricula, design education and training programs, and use innovative service delivery models for teachers of the deaf and hard of hearing.
On Monday, 2/14 at 3:30 pm, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Committee on Appropriations. House Hearing Room A, O’Brien Building.

HB 1328 – ESTABLISHING THE COMPOSITION AND JURISDICTION OF CITY AND COUNTY DISABILITY BOARDS.
In Week Five, this bill was voted DO PASS by the House Appropriations Committee.
It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 1416 – EXPANDING THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CASELOAD FORECAST COUNCIL
Unlike other services within the Department of Social & Health Services, developmental disability programs are not included in the state's caseload forecast. This affects the ability to plan for changes and trends in caseload growth and understates the unmet need for services that are preventative, community-based and cost efficient.
Referred to the House Committee on Appropriations. No hearing scheduled yet.

HB 1519 – CREATING A DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES COMMUNITY TRUST ACCOUNT
This bill directs that proceeds from the sale or leasing of excess Residential Habilitation Center (RHC) property at Rainier, Yakima and Lakeland Village. This bill is NOT related to Fircrest, and does not have any impact on current RHC operations, or the clients at any of the state's five institutions for people with developmental disabilities. (Note: there is a second House bill – HB 1791 - with a similar purpose, though it is limited only to proceeds from leasing; it too is being considered. And there is a similar, though not identical, Senate bill – SB 5702.) All of the bills have the same goal – to maximize unused property at three of the state’s institutions and use the proceeds to benefit people in their homes and communities.
In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing before the House Capital Budget Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1587 – REGARDING CAPITAL FACILITIES AT THE RAINIER SCHOOL.
This bill would remove Washington State University’s control over the Rainier property and leave it under the ownership of the Department of Social and Health Services.
In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing before the House Capital Budget Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

SB 5311 – CREATING AN AUTISM TASK FORCE
This bill would establish the Caring for Washington Children with Autism Task Force to study and make recommendations to the legislature regarding the growing incidence of autism and ways to improve the delivery and coordination of autism services in the state.
Referred to the Senate Health & Long Term Care Committee.

SB 5349 – CREATING A DYSLEXIA READING INSTRUCTION PILOT PROGRAM
This bill is concerned with early identification and treatment (including proper diagnosis, appropriate instruction, etc) as the key to helping dyslexics succeed in school and life. It requires (but only if funds are available) the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee - JLARC, to conduct a study on the effectiveness of the identification of students with dyslexia and the effectiveness of the educational services received by students with dyslexia.
In Week Three, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Committee on Early Learning, K-12, and Higher Education. Eligible for Executive Session.

HEALTH CARE

HB 1109 – MODIFYING DESIGNATED SMOKING AREA REQUIREMENTS

This bill provides that persons under eighteen are not allowed in the designated smoking area of a bar, tavern, bowling alley, or restaurant, and that employers be required to disclose to a prospective employee that all or a part of the place where the employee would work is a designated smoking area.

Referred to the House Health Care Committee. No hearing scheduled yet.

HB 1123/SSB 5029 – REQUIRING SAFE DRINKING WATER IN SCHOOLS.

This bill would require standards for safe drinking water, and for the testing of school water supplies. A report would be made to the legislature biennially, beginning 12/1/07, with any recommendations for legislation that would improve compliance with, or facilitate the enforcement or achievement of, school safe drinking water standards and enforcement.

In Week Five the Senate bill was amended in Executive Session. A Substitute Senate bill was voted DO PASS by the Senate Committee on Water, Energy and Environment. It is now in the Senate Ways & Means Committee.

In Week Five, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the House Health Care Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1137/ SB 5248 – MODIFYING THE SCOPE OF CARE PROVIDED BY PHYSICAL THERAPISTS

This bill intends that only individuals who meet prescribed standards of competence and conduct should be allowed to engage in the practice of physical therapy.

In Week Three, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care. Eligible for Executive Session.

In Week Five, the House bill was voted DO PASS by the House Cttee on Health Care. It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 1166 – INCLUDING ACCESS TO FAMILY PLANNING SERVICES IN GROWTH MANAGEMENT PLANNING

Referred to the House Committee on Local Government. No hearing scheduled yet.

Prescription Drugs

In Week Five , there was an Executive Session before the House Appropriations Committee, on bills dealing with the purchase of Prescription drugs. All four were voted DO PASS and sent to the House Rules Committee, to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 1168 – AUTHORIZING THE STATE BOARD OF PHARMACY TO REGULATE NONRESIDENT CANADIAN PHARMACIES.

HB 1194 – REGARDING REIMPORTATION OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS.

HB 1219 – AUTHORIZING A PRESCRIPTION DRUG PURCHASING CONSORTIUM

HB 1316 – ALLOWING THE IMPORT OF CERTAIN PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FROM CANADIAN WHOLESALERS

HB 1221/ SB 5472 – EXPANDING HEALTH BENEFIT OPTIONS FOR EMPLOYERS

This bill would allow private employers with at least two employees to provide health care coverage for themselves, their employees, and their dependents through the Health Care Authority. Private employer groups could also be included in the single community-rated risk pool comprised of state employees.

In Week Three, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the House Health Care Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

On Thursday, 2/17 at 3:30 pm the Senate bill will get a Public Hearing before the Senate Committee on Health & Long Term Care. Senate Hearing Room 4, Cherberg Building.

HB 1282/ SB 5306 – REGARDING SEXUAL HEALTH EDUCATION

This bill intends that young people be equipped with the comprehensive, medically accurate, age-appropriate information that they need to protect themselves from unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV infection. It would require every school district that offers sexual health education to incorporate the January 2005 guidelines for sexual health information and disease prevention of the department of health and the office of the superintendent of public instruction. Such education must emphasize abstinence, but exclusively; in addition to abstinence, sexual health education must teach medically accurate information about the effectiveness of contraceptives and other family planning options.

In Week Three, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care. Eligible for Possible Executive Session.

In Week Five, the House bill was voted DO PASS by the House Cttee on Health Care.

HB 1371 – MODIFYING THE NURSE MANDATORY OVERTIME PROHIBITION

This bill would increase the types of health care facilities that are subject to the prohibition from requiring nurses to perform overtime work, and limiting the exceptions from the prohibition related to prescheduled on-call time and the completion of patient care procedures. Among the “facilities” to be added are those owned and operated by the Department of Corrections, or by a governing unit in a correctional institution that provides health care services to inmates, among other round-the-clock facilities. Thus it is expected to affect nurses working in such public facilities as county jails.

In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing before the House Commerce & Labor Committee. House Hearing Room C, O’Brien Building.

HB 1388 – LIMITING THE USE OF HIGH HAZARD PESTICIDES ON SCHOOL FACILITIES.

The issue of pesticide use in schools is especially important to children with asthma, allergies, or sensitivities to the chemicals being used.

In Week Three , this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Economic Development, Agriculture & Trade Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1397/ SB 5397 - CHANGING VEHICLE EMISSION STANDARD PROVISIONSS

Popularly described as a transportation-related bill to bring California emission standards to Washington, the bill acknowledges upfront that motor vehicles contribute more than half of all air pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions, they are also responsible for eighty percent of air toxics emissions, and thus harm public health, the environment, and the economy. This bill is also being watched by groups concerned with asthma and other respiratory conditions.

In Week Five , the Senate bill got a Public Hearing before the Senate Cttee on Transportation. Eligible for Executive Session.

On Thursday, 2/17 at 3:30 pm, the House bill will get a Public Hearing before the House Committees on Transportation. House Hearing Room B, O’Brien Building.

HB 1427/ SB 5898 – ORDERING A PUBLIC INFORMATION CAMPAIGN ON POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION.

The bill stems from concern that postpartum depression is a serious condition affecting women of all ages, economic status, and racial and ethnic backgrounds, which can be treated with medication and counseling. If untreated, postpartum depression can lead to further depression, self-destructive behavior, or even suicide, as well as child abuse, neglect, or death of the infant or other siblings. The bill would provide for a council to conduct a proactive, public information and communication outreach campaign concerning the significance, signs, and treatment of postpartum depression. It may include production and distribution of a brochure and communication by electronic media, telephone hotlines, and parenting education events.

In Week Four , this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Health Care Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

The Senate bill was introduced in Week Five, and referred to the Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care.

HB 1441 – PROVIDING ACCESS TO HEALTH INSURANCE FOR CHILDREN.

This bill is prompted by the fact that since 2003, over 62,000 children have lost health coverage they had under Medicaid in Washington state. A recent Governor’s Executive Order will help, but legislation is still needed. Supporters of the bill are working with Committee members for amendments to improve the coverage provided, e.g., to immigrant children.

In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Health Care Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1494 – IMPROVING DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE TO SCHOOL CHILDREN

This bill intends to deal with the shortage of school nurses with appropriate expertise in Washington schools. Beginning with the 2006-07 school year, it would require that each class I school district maintain a ratio of at least one school nurse for every two thousand full-time equivalent students. Beginning in the 2008-09 school year, each class I school district shall maintain a ratio of at least one school nurse for every one thousand five hundred full-time equivalent students.

In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Health Care Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1516 – INCREASING ACCESS TO HEALTH SERVICES FOR CHILDREN THROUGH THE “KIDS GET CARE” SERVICE DELIVERY MODEL

This bill is based on a model currently being used in three counties to provide integrated preventive medical, oral, and developmental health services to young children. It reduces the need for hospitalization, caries treatment, and developmental interventions, and expands the use of evidence-based preventive measures in community health centers and private medical practices treating low-income children. Funds provided for in the bill would be used to develop and implement best practices in preventive health care for children statewide.

In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Health Care Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1656 – DEFINING ABSTINENCE EDUCATION AND COMPREHENSIVE SEX EDUCATION FOR K-12 STUDENTS.

This bill finds that entities promoting or teaching abstinence education must verify compliance required by federal law. School districts and their community committee members are free to determine the type and content of sex education programs used in their district. The stated intent is to help parents clearly identify the type of education being taught, assist community committee members in selecting the best materials to comply with school district policy, and support teachers in complying with their school district policy.

Referred to the House Committee on Health Care. No hearing scheduled yet.

HB 1702/ SB 5637 – CREATING THE ‘HEALTH CARE RESPONSIBILITY ACT’ TO EXPAND ACCESS TO HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE

This bill would require employers of 50 or more to take responsibility for providing basic, affordable health insurance to their employees. Employers would have a choice: they can purchase basic coverage for employees who work more than 86 hours/month, or pay a fee to help expand public insurance programs for the uninsured. Employers would not be required to cover dependents, and employees are expected to pay a portion of their monthly premiums.

On Thursday, 2/17 at 8:00 am, the House bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Committee on Health Care. House Hearing Room A, O’Brien Building.

On Thursday, 2/17 at 3:30 pm, the Senate bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Cttee on Health & Long-Term Care. Senate Hearing Room 4, Cherberg Building. Also on TVW.

SB 5048 – PROHIBITING TOBACCO PRODUCT SAMPLING

This bill finds that tobacco samples contribute to children's access to tobacco products by providing a no-cost initiation that encourages minors to experiment with nicotine at early ages. Tobacco samples are distributed along with other promotional items that contain tobacco brand logos, increasing the appeal of the tobacco products as well as the chances that children will obtain them. This bill would protect minors from the influence of tobacco sampling by eliminating the distribution of samples in Washington.

This bill passed the Full Senate by a vote of 38-9. It was then sent over to the House.

On Thursday, 2/17 at 8:00 am, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Committee on Health Care. House Hearing Room A, O’Brien Building.

SB 5065 – REQUIRING NOTICE OF POTENTIAL INJURIES RESULTING FROM HEALTH CARE

This bill provides that hospitals shall have policies in place to assure that information about unanticipated outcomes is provided to patients, their families, or any surrogate decision makers.

In Week Three, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Committee. Eligible for Possible Executive Session.

SB 5068 – PROVIDING HEALTH INFORMATION FOR YOUTH

This bill would enhance the health development of young people in Washington state by taking opportunities to provide them with information needed to help reduce rates of teen pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and HIV infection. It directs the Department of Health to work in consultation with the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to develop guidelines for health information and disease prevention instruction under this act.

Referred to the Senate Health and Long Term Care Committee. No Hearing scheduled yet.

SB 5114 – PROHIBITING SMOKING WITHIN THIRTY-FIVE FEET OF PUBLIC PLACES

This bill does as its title implies.

Referred to the Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care. No Hearing scheduled yet.

SB 5149 – REQUIRES DISCLOSURE OF GIFTS BY PHARMACEUTICAL MANUFACTURERS TO PERSONS WHO PRESCRIBE PRESCRIPTION DRUGS.

In Week Four, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care. Eligible for Executive Session.

SB 5189 – REDUCING CHILDHOOD LEAD EXPOSURE.

This bill directs the department of health to implement a public health education program aimed at reducing childhood exposure to lead in residential settings, continue efforts to identify areas where lead exposure poses a threat to children and families, and provide information, education, and training to areas of concern. It also directs the department to seek federal funding for lead eradication - especially for older housing stock, including lead-based paint.

In Week Three, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care. Eligible for Possible Executive Session.

SB 5451 – MODIFYING EXCISE TAXATION OF COSMETIC MEDICAL SERVICES

This bill would add elective cosmetic surgery and related services to the list of items eligible for taxation. “Cosmetic medical services" means any medical procedure performed on an adult that is directed at improving a person’s appearance and which does not meaningfully promote the proper function of the body or prevent or treat illness or disease. The tax collected under this change would then be deposited into the health services account, and used to pay for children's health care services.

In Week Four, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

SB 5722 – CONCERNING SMALL EMPLOYERS AND THE BASIC HEALTH PLAN.

This bill concerns small employers wishing to offer group coverage on behalf of themselves and their employees, spouses, and dependent children who reside in an area served by the plan. Coverage would not be conditioned on the small group enrollees meeting the eligibility requirements for subsidized enrollees, or be required to report total household income of their employees as a condition of receiving group coverage. Premiums due from small employers participating in the plan would be equal to the cost charged by the managed health care system to the state for the plan plus the administrative cost of providing the plan.

On Thursday, 2/17 at 3:30 pm, this bill will get a Public Hearing before the Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care. Senate Hearing Room 4, Cherberg Building.

HOUSING/HOMELESSNESS

HB 1074/SSB 5108 – INCREASING THE ADMINISTRATIVE CAP ON THE HOUSING ASSISTANCE PROGRAM AND THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROGRAM

This bill would increase the cap to 5% of annual available funds.

In Week Three, the House bill got a Public Hearing before the House Committee on Housing. Eligible for Possible Executive Session.

The Senate bill was amended in the Community Trade & Economic Development Cttee and voted DO PASS. The Substitute bill is now in the Senate Committee on Ways & Means.

HB 1235 – REQUIRING CONSULTATION BETWEEN COUNTIES, CITIES, AND TOWNS BEFORE SITING HOMELESS CAMPS.

The bill would require that before one jurisdiction can agree to the siting of a homeless encampment that is even partially within a city or town, shares a common boundary with a city or town, or is within one thousand feet of a city or town boundary, they must consult with the those cities or towns at least fifteen days prior. During the Public Hearing witnesses expressed a need to clarify the meaning of the word “consult.” The bill was not amended before being voted out of Committee, but it appears that “consult” just means “notify” and cannot be used to delay.

In Week Five this bill was voted DO PASS by the House Committee on Housing.

HB 1583/ SB 5577 – MAKING AVAILABLE RELOCATION ASSISTANCE PAYMENTS TO TENANTS

This bill would establish a process by which displaced tenants would receive funds for relocation from landlords who fail to provide safe and sanitary housing after due notice of building code or health code violations. It would also provide enforcement mechanisms to cities, towns, counties, or municipal corporations - including the ability to advance relocation funds to tenants who are displaced as a result of a landlord's failure to remedy building code or health code violations, and later to collect these relocation funds, along with interest and penalties, from landlords.

On Tuesday, 2/15 or Thursday, 2/17 at 10:00 am , the House bill is scheduled for Executive Session in the House Cttee on Housing. House Hearing Room D, O’Brien Building.

In Week Five , the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection.  Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1585 – AUTHORIZING STANDARDS FOR HOUSING FOR PERSONS WHO ARE TEMPORARILY HOMELESS.

This bill stems from concern that homeless persons are vulnerable to exploitation as low-wage laborers. In 1995, the legislature recognized that the circumstances of another group of exploited low-wage laborers - migrant agricultural workers - necessitated the creation of standards for temporary worker housing to prevent those workers from being forced into unsafe and unsanitary housing. This bill is an effort to do the same for homeless workers. It would establish a clear and concise set of regulations for temporary housing and encampments for homeless persons, substantially equivalent to those provided for temporary worker housing.

On Tuesday, 2/15 or Thursday, 2/17 at 10:00 am , the House bill is scheduled for Executive Session in the House Cttee on Housing. House Hearing Room D, O’Brien Building.

HB 1629 – REVISING DISTRIBUTION OF FUNDS FOR OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE OF VERY LOW-INCOME HOUSING PROJECTS

This bill was sought by housing advocates to help housing in areas of limited resources.

On Tuesday, 2/15 or Thursday, 2/17 at 10:00 am , the House bill is scheduled for Executive Session in the House Cttee on Housing. House Hearing Room D, O’Brien Building.

HB 1640/ SB 5660 – PROVIDING A DISPUTE MECHANISM FOR MANUFATURED/MOBILE HOME LANDLORD AND TENANT DISPUTES

This bill recognizes that taking legal action against a park owner for violations of the manufactured/mobile home landlord-tenant act can be a costly and lengthy process, and many people cannot afford to go into court to protect their rights. Park owners would also benefit from a process that resolves disputes quickly and efficiently. The bill would provide a mechanism for state authorities to quickly locate owners of manufactured housing communities, and authorize the Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development to register mobile home parks or manufactured housing communities, conduct investigations, issue citations, issue cease and desist orders, and impose fines for violations of the Act.

On Tuesday 2/15 at 8:00 am, the House bill will get a Public Hearing before the House Committee on Housing. House Hearing Room D, O’Brien Building.

In Week Five, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing before the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1810 – ENDING HOMELESSNESS IN THE STATE OF WASHINGTON

This bill stems from the fact that there is no statewide coordinated approach to ending home-lessness, no way to calculate the total number of homeless in the state, or to track the housing status of homeless individuals. The bill sets a goal of ending homelessness within 10 years, with a strategic plan updated plan annually based upon annual homeless census figures and progress to date. A Homeless Housing Program will be funded by a $10 surcharge for each document recorded by the county auditor, and used for local programs providing a full range of housing.

On Tuesday 2/15 at 8:00 am, this bill is scheduled for Executive Session in the House Committee on Housing. House Hearing Room D, O’Brien Building.

SSB 5183 – PROVIDING TAX RELIEF TO PROMOTE AFFORDABLE HOUSING.

This bill provides a variety of tax credits to apply to donations, materials, and property involved in the development of affordable housing.

In Week Four, a Substitute (amended) bill was voted DO PASS by the Senate Cttee on Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection. It is now in the Senate Committee on Ways & Means.

SB 5713 – ASSISTING TENANTS IN MULTIPLE-UNIT HOUSING PROPOSED FOR REHABILITATION.

This bill is an effort to protect tenants from being forced out of housing with no opportunity to find housing of comparable size, quality, and price and a reasonable opportunity to relocate.

On Wednesday, 2/16 at 3:30 pm, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection. Senate Hearing Room 2, Cherberg Building.

SB 5767 – DEVELOPING PLANS TO ADDRESS THE HOUSING NEEDS OF HOMELESS PERSONS.

This bill is similar to, but not identical to, HB 1810. It would ask each county to create a task force to develop a ten-year plan for short- and long-term housing for homeless persons. Membership on the task force would be broad, and would establish guidelines, as needed, for a broad range of housing (e.g., emergency shelters, short-term housing, temporary encampments, supportive housing, and long-term housing).

On Wednesday, 2/16 at 3:30 pm, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection. Senate Hearing Room 2, Cherberg Building.

HB 1057/ SB 5051 – CAPITAL BUDGET, Housing Trust Fund

This fund is the state’s largest public funding source for the creation of affordable homes for low income families and individuals. Since its inception it has developed, preserved, or rehabilitated over 25,000 housing units, and leveraged over $1.5 billion in public and private funds. Low income housing advocates are seeking an increase in the Housing Trust Fund to $100 million for the biennium. It is currently set at $80 million.

The House bill was referred to the House Capital Budget Committee.

The Senate bill was referred to the Senate Ways & Means Committee.

NOTE: There is a House Joint Memorial (HJM 4009), calling on President Bush and the U.S. Congress to maintain Section 8 housing, and a House Joint Memorial (HJM 4013) calling on the Governor, all Counties in the state, and all 11 members of the state’s delegation to the U.S. Congress, to recognize and address the growing epidemic of homelessness, promote a statewide effort to count and track homeless individuals and children, and publicly highlight and support successful homeless housing programs in the state. Joint Memorials do not have the force of law, but are an effort to send a strong message from the body, to other governmental entities. Both are scheduled for Public Hearings on Thursday, 2/17 in the House Committee on Housing.

HUNGER AND NUTRITION

HB 1593/ SSB 5597 – FUNDING FARMERS MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAMS

The farmers market nutrition programs serve many good purposes. They: promote health, alleviate hunger, prevent obesity, and encourage the purchase of locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables – and thus support small farmers and rural economies. Low income women with children and low-income and homebound seniors alike benefit, through farmers markets, congregate meals sites, and senior housing. This bill would provide $1,150,000 to support these programs.

The House bill was referred to the House Committee on Economic Development, Agriculture & Trade. No hearing scheduled yet.

In Week Five, the Senate bill was amended and voted DO PASS by the Agriculture & Rural Economic Development Cttee. It is now in the Senate Committee on Ways & Means.

HB 1771 – REQUIRING SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAMS IN CERTAIN SCHOOLS

This bill would require that school districts implement a school breakfast program in each school where more than 40% of students eligible for the school lunch program qualify for free or reduced-price meals by the school year 2005-06. This would ensure that breakfast is available in schools with large concentrations of low-income children. (Fewer than 30 schools are affected.)

On Wednesday, 2/16 at 8:00 am, this bill will get a Public Hearing before the House Education Committee. House Hearing Room B, O’Brien Building.

Budget Item: Emergency Food.

Food banks and other emergency food providers will be seeking additional funds for emergency food purchase, transportation, and education.

INCOME SUPPORTS/WELFARE

HB 1100 - CREATING A STATE FINANCIAL AID ACCOUNT

This bill intends to assure that funds available for financial aid are readily available to eligible students and not delayed by transfers from one account to another. The financial aid programs in the account are: the State Need Grant, State Work Study, Washington Scholars, Washington Award for Vocational Excellence, and the Educational Opportunity Grant.

On Monday, 2/14 at 3:30 pm, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Committee on Appropriations. House Hearing Room A, O’Brien Building.

On Wednesday, 2/16 at 3:30 pm, this bill is scheduled for Possible Executive Session in the House Committee on Appropriations. House Hearing Room A, O’Brien Building.

HB1173/SB 5069 - ESTABLISHING FAMILY LEAVE INSURANCE

This bill would establish a program of limited income support for a limited period to allow parents to bond with a newborn or newly placed child, and workers to care for seriously ill family members or recover from their own serious health condition. Such a program would reduce reliance on state income support programs by increasing an individual's ability to provide care-giving services for family members while still maintaining an employment relationship.

In Week Four, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the House Committee on Commerce & Labor. Eligible for Executive Session.

In Week Four, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Cttee on Labor, Commerce, Research & Development. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1189/ SB 5393 – PROVIDING RELIEF FOR INDIGENT VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES

The bill would require counties to establish veterans' assistance programs to help qualifying local indigent veterans and their families, and a veterans’ advisory board to give advice on the needs, resources, and available programs – including help with burial funds.

In Week Five, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the House Committee on Local Government. Eligible for Executive Session.

On Tuesday, 2/15 at 10:00 am, the Senate bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Cttee on Government Operations & Elections. Senate Hearing Rom 2, Cherberg Bldg. On TVW.

SHB 1190/ SB 5213 - SUPPORTING LONG TERM SUCCESS OF FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN BY REMOVING BARRIERS TO TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES (TANF) AND THE WORKFIRST PROGRAM

This bill would allow the State to join fourteen other states and opt out of one of the federal restrictions to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Under this change, individuals who would have been ineligible to receive TANF benefits (through WorkFirst) because of a drug-related felony conviction, or lack of drug assessment or treatment, would now be eligible to receive these benefits. No other felony conviction (rape, murder, assault) results in the loss of eligibility for TANF, and the disqualification particularly harms the children of former felons and victims of domestic violence.

In Week Three, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections.

In Week Five the House bill was amended in Executive Session and the Substitute bill was voted DO PASS by the House Economic Development, Agriculture & Trade Cttee. It is now in the House Appropriations Committee.

SHB 1408/ SB 5469 – CREATING AN INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT ACCOUNT PROGAM

This bill is also known as the Saving Earning and Enabling Dreams (SEED) Act. The bill would provide for an IDA program within DCTED - the Department of Community Trade & Economic Development. Individual Development Accounts are savings accounts that encourage people with lower incomes to save, invest, and build assets. Eligible individuals include low-income individuals (someone whose household income is equal or less than either: 80 percent of the median family income, adjusted for household size; or 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.) and foster youth (someone 15 years of age or older who is a dependent of the Department of Social and Health Services -DSHS; or is at least 15 years of age, but not more than 23 years of age, who was a dependent DSHS for 24 months after age13.)

Community agencies partner with banks and financial institutions to create accounts and give account-holders financial training. Each dollar saved by account-holders is matched by the state. The account can be tapped for limited purposes, e.g., to buy a home, finance a higher education, start a small business, and for certain emergencies. Washington currently has a limited IDA program for people eligible for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) that is funded through the welfare budget. That funding expires in June 2005 and the program will end unless the legislature takes action.

In Week Five there was talk a possible substitute that would substantially change the bill and make it less useful, and less available, to low-income people. Among other things, it would removed “Foster Youth” from the list of those eligible for an IDA.

In Week Four, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the House Committee on Economic Development, Agriculture & Trade. Eligible for Executive Session.

In Week Four, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Cttee on International Trade & Economic Development. (An expected Executive Session did not take place.)

HB 1570 – CREATING THE WASHINGTON VOLUNTARY ACCOUNTS PROGRAM

This bill stems from concern that many workers do not have access to an employment-based retirement plan. Workers who are unable to build up pensions and savings risk living on low incomes in their old age and are more likely to become dependent on state services. The bill would create a Washington Voluntary Accounts program to provide a simple and inexpensive way for workers to save for retirement and employers to offer an employee benefit.

In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Appropriations Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1550/ SB 5759 – SUPPORTING THE STATE ACHIEVERS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

This bill would broaden higher education opportunities by: providing for mentoring to ensure academic support is available to students while in high school; encouraging college enrollment, and assisting once enrolled; reducing financial barriers to college for talented, low-income students; and, leveraging private funding for higher education financial assistance.

On Friday, 2/18 at 8:00 am, the Senate bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Cttee on Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Ed.  Senate Hearing Room 1, Cherberg Building.

On Tuesday 2/15 at 6:00 pm, this billis scheduled for Executive Session in the House Education Committee. House Hearing Room B, O’Brien Building.

HB 1589/ SB 5578 – INCREASING THE AMOUNT OF VOCATIONAL EDUCATION THAT QUALIFIES AS A WORK ACTIVITY UNDER WORKFIRST.

This bill simply changes from 12 to 24 months, the amount of vocational education time permitted to WorkFirst participants - to increase employability and long-term economic stability.

In Week Four, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections.

On Monday, 2/14 at 1:30 pm, the House bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Cttee on Children & Family Services. House Hearing Room D, O’Brien Building. Also on TVW.

HB 1636/ SB 5684 – ADOPTING A WAGE LADDER FOR CHILD CARE WORKERS

This bill would increase wages to child care workers by establishing a child care career and wage ladder that provides increased wages for child care workers based on their work experience, level of responsibility, and education. Within available funds, this career and wage ladder is expected to mirror the successful child care career and wage ladder pilot project operated by the state between 2000 and 2003. Among the demonstrated successes: lower turnover among child care workers in the pilot project – a factor known to improve child development and learning.

The Senate bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Labor, Commerce, R & D.

In Week Five, the House bill got a Public Hearing before the House Committee on Children & Family Services. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1833 – PROVIDING INCENTIVES FOR IMPROVED JOB TRAINING AND PLACEMENT SERVICES

This bill would require the integration of job training and placement services provided through the WorkFirst program, and those provided through the federal Workforce Investment Act – two programs important to low-income adults.

On Monday, 2/14 at 1:30 pm, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Committee on Children & Family Services. House Hearing Room D, O’Brien Building. Also on TVW.

HB 1867 – RESTRICTING THE USE OF FUNDS FOR THE WASHINGTON WORKFIRST PROGRAM

This bill would eliminate the “welfare box” controlled by the Governor, and reassert the Legislature’s role with respect to funds provided for the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant and state Maintenance of Effort (MOE) funding. These funds would be subject to appropriation, as well as any conditions contained in the biennial or supplemental operating budget.

On Monday, 2/14 at 1:30 pm, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Committee on Children & Family Services. House Hearing Room D, O’Brien Building. Also on TVW.

HB 1251/ SB 5692 – REGULATING TAX REFUND ANTICIPATION LOANS

This bill would establish state-wide regulation of Refund Anticipation Laws, similar to the standards used by some commercial tax-preparers. Because it retroactively and prospectively pre-empts any local government actions on tax refund anticipation loans, it would effectively negate a stronger local law passed by Seattle. This issue is of particular concern to those working with low-income people who may be persuaded (without full understanding) to agree to a very high-interest “loan” in order to get their federal tax refund a little faster.

In Week Five, the House bill got a Public Hearing before the House Committee on Financial Institutions & Insurance. Eligible for Executive Session.

On Tuesday, 2/15 at 3:30 pm, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection. Senate Hearing Room 2, Cherberg Building.

HB 1419/ SB 5266 – RESERVING STATE AUTHORITY TO REGULATE CUSTOMER FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS.

This bill would enforce uniformity in financial transactions across the state, and forbid the regulation of financial transactions by cities, towns and other local government entities.

(Thus, like HB 1215/ SB 5692 – above, this bill would negate the City of Seattle’s tighter local law.) This issue is of particular concern to those working with low-income people who may be persuaded (without full understanding) to agree to a very high-interest “loan” in order to get their federal tax refund a little faster.

In Week Five, the House bill was voted DO PASS by the House Committee on Financial Institutions & Insurance. It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

In Week Three, the Senate bill was voted DO PASS by the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection. It is now in the Senate Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

SB 5796 – REGULATING REFUND ANTICIPATION LOANS

Unlike the two previous bills, this bill is modeled after a much stronger California law. It would increase protections for consumers, impose more stringent requirements on commercial tax preparers, and would include enforcement mechanisms (e.g., a requirement that tax preparers must act in the best interest of tax filers, much like the legal relationship lawyers have to

their clients).

On Tuesday, 2/15 at 3:30 pm, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Cttee on Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection. Senate Hearing Room 2, Cherberg Bldg.

Budget Item:

Advocates for low-income adults are seeking $3 million to fund the Gaining Independence Act. Passed by the legislature in 2003, the act was never funded in the budget. This would help parents who qualify for financial aid pay meet child care costs while they are in school, providing up to 3,000 grants of at least $1,000 each.

JUVENILES/YOUTH

SHB 1050 – FOSTER CARE SCHOLARSHIP

This bill would create an endowed scholarship for eligible foster care students to attend an institution of higher learning in Washington State. The bill matches state dollars from the Higher Education Board with private cash donations.

On Monday 2/14 at 3:30 pm, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Appropriations Committee; in House Hearing Room A, in the O’Brien Building.

SHB 1058 – MENTAL HEALTH FOR MINORS

This bill authorizes an evaluation and treatment facility to admit for evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment any minor under thirteen years of age for whom application is made by the minor’s parent or guardian. The consent of the minor under the age of thirteen is not required. It also clarifies the parent role in placement of a minor and shortens timelines for decisions about the medical necessity of treatment. It adds limited liability protection to facilities and professionals who act in good faith in accordance with the law.

In Week Four, this bill was amended, and the Substitute House Bill was voted DO PASS in an Executive Session in the House Juvenile Justice and Family Law Committee.

It is now in the House Rules Committee waiting to be brought to the House Floor.

HB 1079/SB 5084 - FOSTER YOUTH EDUCATION

This bill was requested by former Governor Locke. It would establish a Foster Youth Post-secondary Education and Training Coordination Committee.

On Thursday 2/17 at 8:00 am, the House bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Higher Education Committee; in House hearing Room C, in the O’Brien Building.

The Senate bill was originally referred to the Senate Labor, Commerce, Research & Development Cttee. It was re-referred to the Senate Early learning, K-12, Higher Ed Committee.

HB 1082 – MENTAL HEALTH FOR MINORS

This bill is a technical clean-up of the numbering and ordering of current Regulations (RCW’s) pertaining to mental health for minors.

In Week Four this bill was voted DO PASS in an Executive Session in the House Juvenile Justice and Family Law Committee.

It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be brought to the House Floor.

HB 1187 - ELIMINATING MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCES FOR YOUTHFUL OFFENDERS TRIED AS ADULTS

This bill finds that emerging research on brain development indicates that adolescent brains and thus adolescent intellectual and emotional capabilities differ significantly from those of mature adults. It is appropriate to take these differences into consideration when sentencing juveniles tried as adults. The bill intends to eliminate the application of mandatory minimum sentences for juveniles tried as adults, and to continue to apply all other adult sentencing provisions to juveniles tried as adults.

In Week Five, this bill got an Executive Session in the House Juvenile Justice & Family Law Committee where it was voted DO PASS. It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 1279 - REVISING PROVISIONS RELATING TO PUBLIC ACCESS TO CHILDREN IN NEED OF SERVICES AND AT-RISK YOUTH HEARINGS

This bill changes the law to allow courts to conduct these hearings in any venue available to the parents, and allows public access unless the judge finds it detrimental to the child’s interests.

In Week Five, this bill got an Executive Session in the House Juvenile Justice & Family Law Committee, where it was voted DO PASS. It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 1282/ SB 5306 - REGARDING SEXUAL HEALTH EDUCATION

This bill requires every school district that offers sexual health education to incorporate the January, ‘05 guidelines for sexual health information and disease prevention of the Department of Health and the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. They must emphasize abstinence, as required by law, except abstinence may not be taught to the exclusion of other methods of preventing teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV infection. In addition to abstinence, sexual health education must teach medically accurate information about the effectiveness of contraceptives and other family planning options.

In Week Two, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Health & Long term Care Committee. Eligible for possible Executive Session.

In Week Five, this bill got both a Public Hearing and an Executive Session in the House Health Care Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

SHB 1366 – VIDEO GAMING RATING SYSTEMS

This bill would require persons and retail establishments that sell video games to post signs with nationally-recognized rating systems, and upon request to provide consumers with information on the rating system.

In Week Five, this bill got an Executive Session in the House Juvenile Justice & Family Law Committee, where it was amended. The Substitute House Bill was voted DO PASS. It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 1408/ SB 5469 – CREATING AN INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT ACCOUNT (IDA) PROGAM

See also INCOME SUPPORTS: individuals eligible for IDA’s include Foster Youth. A rumored amendment would remove Foster Youth from those eligible for IDA’s.

HB 1483 /SB 5567 – CREATING AN “INVESTING IN YOUTH” PROGRAM

This bill’s intent is to create incentives for local government investments in cost-effective intervention services that reduce crime by reimbursing local governments with a portion of the cost savings that accrue to the state as the result of local investments in such services. Based on an existing model, it would create a pilot program limited initially to three sites with at least one in a large population center, and one in a relatively small population center.

In Week Five, the House bill got an Executive Session in the House Juvenile Justice & Family Law Committee. It was amended and voted DO PASS. It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

In Week Four the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1531 - LIMITING THE WAIVER OF COUNSEL IN JUVENILE PROCEEDINGS

This bill provides that in any proceeding in which a child has the right to the assistance of counsel, neither the child nor the parent, guardian, or custodian may waive the child’s right to counsel - unless the court has considered the evidence of the child’s school performance and any testing which the school may have conducted. It further declares that the continuance of a hearing due to these conditions may not be a basis for detaining the child.

On Wednesday 2/16 at 1:30 pm, this bill will get an Executive Session in the House Juvenile Justice & Family law Committee. House Hearing Room E in the O’Brien Building.

HB 1644 – CHANGING THE LAW PERTAINING TO WAIVER OF RIGHTS BY A JUVENILE

This bill requires that a minor must be sixteen years of age or older in order to waive their rights without consultation with a parent, guardian, custodian, or the advice of an attorney.

On Wednesday 2/16 at 1:30 pm, this bill will get an Executive Session in the House Juvenile Justice & Family law Committee. House Hearing Room E in the O’Brien Building.

HB 1660 – EXPANDING THE DEFINITION OF “AT RISK YOUTH”

This bill makes the following addition to the definition of at risk youth, a juvenile “who has a substance abuse or mental health problem and there are no pending criminal charges related to the substance abuse or mental health problem.” (Underlined words added.)

On Wednesday 2/16 at 1:39, this bill will get an Executive Session in the House Juvenile Justice & Family law Committee. In House Hearing Room E, in the O’Brien Building.

HB 1661/SB 5500 – SPECIFYING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSFER OF JUVENILE PROCEEDINGS

This bill provides that if the court orders a transfer of venue the case and the copies of all legal and social documents pertaining thereto shall be transferred to the county in which the juvenile resides, without regard to whether or not his or her custodial parent resides there for supervision and enforcement of the disposition order.

In Week Five, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

On Tuesday 2/16 at 10:00 am, the House bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Juvenile Justice & Family Law Committee. House Hearing Room E, in the O’Brien Building.

HB 1708 – REGARDING DROPOUT PREVENTION

This bill requires the Superintendent of Public Instruction to review and evaluate promising programs for dropout prevention. The bill requires a report to be made to the legislature by December 1, 2005 on the two most promising programs. It also directs the superintendent to establish school and school district goals addressing high school graduation rates and dropout reduction goals for students in grades seven through twelve. It includes requirements to show progress under the federal “No Child Left Behind Act of 2001.”

On Monday 2/14 at 1:30 pm, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Education Committee. House Hearing Room B, in the O’Brien Building.

HB 1727 – CHANGING DROPOUT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

This bill directs the Academic Achievement and Accountability Commission (A+ Commission) to adopt high school graduation rate and dropout reduction goals for grades seven through twelve. It expands the grade range for which school districts must report dropout data by including grades seven and eight with grades nine through twelve.

On Monday 2/14 at 1:30 pm, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Education Committee. House Hearing Room B, in the O’Brien Building.

SB 5116 – SKATE PARKS

This bill would require the wearing of helmets in skate parks.

In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Natural Resources, Ocean, & Recreation Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

SB 5254 - CREATING THE LEGISLATIVE YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL

This bill creates a Legislative Youth Advisory Council to examine issues of importance to youth, including education, employment, strategies to increase youth participation in state and municipal government, safe environments for youth, substance abuse, emotional and physical health, foster care, poverty, homelessness, and youth access to services on a statewide and municipal basis. The council shall advise on youth issues from budget expenditures to policy matters. It will hold meetings and seminars and report annually to the legislature on its activities.

In Week Four, this bill got a Public Hearing and an Executive Session in the Senate Government Operations & Elections Committee. It was voted DO PASS.

It is now in the Senate Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

SB 5257- REVISING PROVISIONS RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH TEATMENT FOR MINORS

When a parent brings his or her minor child to an evaluation and treatment facility to determine whether the child has a mental disorder and is in need of treatment, the treatment provider may not refuse to treat the minor based solely on the minor's lack of consent. A minor who is admitted to treatment under the parent-initiated treatment provisions may not sue the facility or treatment provider based solely on the minor's lack of consent.

In Week Three, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

SB 5288 - SPECIFYING HOW CUSTODIAL INTERROGATIONS OF JUVENILES MAY BE CONDUCTED

This bill requires that when a law enforcement officer takes a juvenile into custody, the officer must immediately make attempts to notify a parent, guardian, or custodian that the juvenile is in custody, where the juvenile is being held, and of his or her right to consult with the juvenile. No statement, admission, or confession (written or oral) of a juvenile under the age of 17 years given as the result of interrogation by law enforcement officials is admissible unless the parent, guardian, or custodian were present and all legal conditions were met. Provides that if a juvenile expresses fear or distress at the prospect of notifying the juvenile’s parent, guardian or custodian that leads an officer to believe there is a possibility of abuse or neglect, the juvenile may have another interested adult or an attorney present.

In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

SB 5460 - AUTHORIZING EDUCATORS TO REQUEST FAMILY RECONCILIATION SERVICES FOR STUDENTS

This bill allows certificated school employees who believe a student may be an at-risk youth or Child In Need of Services (CHIN) may request that the Department of Social and Health Services provide family reconciliation services to the family.

In Week Four, this bill got a Public Hearing in Senate Human Services & Corrections Cttee.

SB 5478 - DEFINING ABSTINENCE EDUCATION AND COMPREHENSIVE SEX EDUCATION FOR K-12 STUDENTS

This bill finds that school districts and their community committee members are free to determine the type and content of sex education programs used in their district, and that entities promoting or teaching abstinence education must verify compliance with requirements to teach abstinence education as required by federal law.

This bill was referred to the Senate Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education Cttee.

SB 5502 - REVISING JUVENILE SENTENCING ALTERNATIVES

This bill declares that certain juvenile offenders fourteen years of age or older convicted of an A+ offense; who attempted, conspired, or solicited others to commit a class A offence; or offences committed when armed with a deadly weapon, shall be ineligible for the mental health disposition option.

In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

SB 5557 – REVISING PROVISIONS CONCERNING MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT FOR MINORS

This bill clarifies state law to insure that an evaluation and treatment facility may admit for evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment any minor under thirteen years of age for whom application is made by the minor's parent or guardian. The consent of the minor under the age of thirteen is not required. (SB 5257 is concerned with minors over the age of thirteen years.)

This bill was referred to the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. No Hearing scheduled yet.

SB 5583 - REQUIRING TRAINING OF CHILDREN'S ADMINISTRATION EMPLOYEES CONCERNING OLDER CHILDREN WHO ARE VICTIMS OF ABUSE OR NEGLECT

This bill requires the Department of Social and Health Services to develop a curriculum to train the staff of the Children’s Administration on how to screen and respond to referrals to child protective services when those referrals may involve victims of abuse and neglect ages 11-18.

In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

SB 5738 – PROHIBITING ENGAGING IN BODY PIERCING ON PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF EIGHTEEN

This bill provides that every person who engages in body piercing on any minor under the age of eighteen, is guilty of a misdemeanor - unless a parent of, or a legal guardian of, the minor provides informed consent in writing, furnishes proof of identification, and is present when the piercing occurs.

This bill was referred to Senate Judiciary Committee.

SB 5848 – CHANGING PROVISIONS RELATING TO MISSING AND RUNAWAY CHILDREN

This bill establishes that if a law enforcement officer receives a report, or has reasonable cause to believe, that a child is missing from the parent’s home without consent, the officer shall make a good faith effort to locate the child.

On Thursday 2/17 at 8:00 am, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Senate Hearing Room 1, of the Cherberg Building

 

MENTAL HEALTH

HB 1005/ SB 5753 – CREATING A CONSUMER OR ADVOCATE-RUN MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE DELIVERY SYSTEM.

This bill recognizes the value in having persons with mental illness, their family members, and advocates involved in designing, implementing, and delivering mental health services (e.g., it reduces unnecessary hospitalizations and incarceration, promotes recovery and employment).

It would permit certain regional support network services to be consumer or advocate-run, such as: Consumer and/or advocate-operated businesses; Clubhouses (e.g., the Fountain House model); Crisis services; Advocacy and referral services; Self-help and peer counseling and support groups; and others. A New Century Consumer Coalition is working on this bill.

The Senate bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections.

In Week Three, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the House Health Care Committee.

SHB 1058 – MENTAL HEALTH FOR MINORS

This bill authorizes an evaluation and treatment facility to admit for evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment any minor under thirteen years of age for whom application is made by the minor’s parent or guardian. The consent of the minor under the age of thirteen is not required. It also clarifies the parent role in placement of a minor and shortens timelines for decisions about the medical necessity of treatment. It adds limited liability protection to facilities and professionals who act in good faith in accordance with the law.

In Week Four, this bill was amended, and the Substitute House Bill was voted DO PASS in an Executive Session in the House Juvenile Justice and Family Law Committee.

It is now in the House Rules Committee waiting to be brought to the House Floor.

HB 1082 – MENTAL HEALTH FOR MINORS

This bill is a technical clean-up of the numbering and ordering of current Regulations (RCW’s) pertaining to mental health for minors.

In Week Four this bill was voted DO PASS in an Executive Session in the House Juvenile Justice and Family Law Committee.

It is now on the House Floor, waiting to be brought to a vote.

HB 1154/ SB 5450 – MENTAL HEALTH PARITY

This bill would r equire that group health insurance plans provide the same amounts and terms of coverage for mental health services as they do for medical and surgical services. Exempt from this requirement are small businesses (i.e., those with fewer than 50 employees) – but insurers must offer optional mental health coverage to them. The bill would phase in 1/1/06 – 7/1/10.

The Senate bill was referred to the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Committee.

In Week Three the House bill passed the Full House by a vote of 67-25 (6 absent).

It is now in the Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care.

HB 1290 – MODIFYING COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES PROVISIONS.

This bill concerns funding for the Regional Support Networks.

In Week Five, this bill was voted on in Executive Session in the House Health Care Committee. The Committee’s action is not available at this writing.

SB 5763 – ENACTING THE OMNIBUS TREATMENT OF MENTAL AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE DISORDERS ACT OF 2005

This bill was just introduced in Week Four and immediately created excitement, simply because it includes so many issues that have been of concern to people in both the mental health and substance abuse communities.

Among its 913 (yes, 913!) provisions, it would: provide for assessments, to assure the right treatment and appropriate services in appropriate settings, and to better determine the actual need for services for co-occurring disorders; provide for a 2-year, 2-county pilot program (with statewide implementation to be dependent on results of a 2-year study of experience); establish chemical dependency intensive case management for high utilizing clients; expand chemical dependency treatment to 40% of identified need in 2006 and 60% in 2007 for both children and adults; expand the use of evidence-based and research-based practices and give providers the appropriate training; expand the competency restoration program at Western State Hospital – in part to speed up appropriate processing and relieve the overcrowding in local jails; expand mental health and drug courts and family therapeutic courts to reduce dependencies and criminal involvement; suspend (rather than terminate) Medicaid for those in jail or in state hospitals; create 2 new evaluation and treatment centers for short-term treatment of civilly committed clients … and much, much more. Counties would be permitted to levy a 1/10 th of 1% sales & use tax to provide for new or expanded mental health or chemical dependency treatment (not to be used to supplant existing resources).

In Week Five, this bill got a Public Hearing before the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

REVENUES

Work Session:

On Tuesday, 2/15 at 10:00 am, the House Finance Committee series will continue with a Work Session to consider: What can we do to improve the fairness of our tax system for household and business? (Note – the Week Five Joint Committee session held together with the House Committee on Economic Development, Agriculture & Trade, involved one-third of all House members.) Immediately following, those present will be invited to comment on the work session topic in a Public Hearing. House Hearing Room A, O’Brien Building. Also on TVW.

HB 1069 – REQUIRING PERFORMANCE AUDITS FOR TAX PREFERENCES

This bill recognizes that tax preferences are enacted to meet objectives in the public interest. However, some tax preferences may not be efficient or equitable tools for achieving public policy objectives. Given the changing nature of the economy and tax structures of other states, periodic performance audits of tax preferences are needed. The bill directs the Citizen Commission for Performance Measurement of Tax Preferences to develop a schedule for orderly review of tax preferences at least once every ten years.

In Week Five, this bill was PASSED by the House of Representatives (63-32).

It is now in the Senate Ways & Means Committee.

1094 – ESTABLISHING REPORTING REQUIREMENTS TO MONITOR THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TAX INCENTIVES

This bill would require beneficiaries of tax incentives to file annual survey information about business activities, claimed tax incentives, employment, wages, and employee benefits.

In Week Two this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Finance Committee.

1096 – REQUIRING A TAX EXPENDITURE REPORT AS PART OF THE BIENNIAL BUDGET DOCUMENTS.

There are currently more than 400 tax exemptions available in Washington, including various tax exemptions, exclusions, deductions, credits, deferrals, and preferential rates (also referred to as "tax preferences"). There is already a report every four years describing each exemption, its year of enactment, purpose, primary beneficiaries, and estimated fiscal impact. This bill requires a tax expenditures report as part of the Governor's biennial budget documents, listing all tax exemptions and categorizing each according to the program or function it supports. The Governor will then recommend whether each exemption should be allowed to terminate, continue, or continue with modification.

In Week Five this bill was voted DO PASS by the House Finance Committee.

It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

SHB 1299 – REPEALING OUTDATED AND UNUSED TAX PREFERENCES

This bill would update and simplify the tax laws by repealing those tax exemptions, deductions, credits and assorted preferences that are outdated, no longer providing relief, or otherwise useful.

In Week Five this bill was amended in Executive Session and the Substitute House Bill was voted DO PASS by the House Finance Committee. It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

NOTE: the budget deficit is now estimated to be $2.2 billion, or higher. In order to pass a balanced budget, the legislature has three choices. It can cut $2.2 billion from existing state activities and services. It can raise $2.2 billion in new revenues to cover the shortfall. It can agree to some combination of the two. Since the legislature cannot cut K-12 funding or long-term obligations, is resistant to the idea of cutting higher education or prisons, and has other on-going obligations, a high proportion of any cuts typically come from health and human services.

RIGHTS/OPPORTUNITIES

Work Session:

On Friday, 2/18 at 1:30 pm, there will be a Work Session before the House Committee on Higher Education, on Higher Education Access, Funding, Tuition and Financial Aid. House Hearing Room C, O’Brien Building.

HB 1080 – PROTECTING DEPENDENT PERSONS

This bill intends to improve protection of dependent persons by changing the crimes of criminal mistreatment, and, abandonment of a dependent person – by adding a new category of responsible persons. To the parent of a child, and a person with custody of a child or other dependent, this bill would add “a person who has assumed the responsibility to provide to a dependent person the basic necessities of life.” Like parents and other caretakers, they could be found guilty of the crime of “criminal mistreatment in the fourth degree.”

In Week Three, this bill got a Public Hearing before the House Criminal Justice & Corrections Committee. Still eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1426/ SSB 5407 – ESTABLISHING AN INTERAGENCY PLAN FOR CHILDREN OF INCARCERATED PARENTS.

This bill intends better support for children whose parents are incarcerated by encouraging the state agencies involved with their families to coordinate and expand existing services for these families. The Departments of Corrections and Social and Health Services are directed to establish an oversight committee to develop a comprehensive interagency plan for necessary services and supports for these children.

In Week Four, the Senate bill was sent by the Rules Committee to the Senate Floor for Second Reading (the point when a bill can be debated and amended by the full body).

In Week Five, the House bill was voted DO PASS by the House Committee on Children & Family Services. It is now in the House Rules Committee.

HB 1495/ SB 5655 – REQUIRING THAT WASHINGTON’S TRIBAL HISTORY BE TAUGHT IN THE COMMON SCHOOLS.

This bill would require that by 1/1/15 (earlier if a school district is adopting its social studies curriculum), a school district must include in its history and social studies curricula for each grade in which the district offers instruction on Washington state and United States history, the tribally and district-approved history and culture of a federally recognized Indian tribe whose reservation sits within the boundaries of the school district, or is within a one hundred mile radius of the school district. It also requires that the teachers must have completed appropriate certification or been approved by the tribe whose curriculum is being taught.

On Monday, 2/14 at 1:30 pm, the House bill is scheduled for Possible Executive Session in the House Education Committee. House Hearing Room B, O’Brien Building.

On Monday, 2/14 at 3:30 pm, the Senate bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Cttee on Early Learning, K-12 and Higher Education. Senate Hearing Room 1, Cherberg Building.

HB 1515 – EXPANDING THE JURISDICTION OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION.

Known as the Anderson-Murray Anti-Discrimination bill, this bill would add sexual orientation to the purview of the Human Rights Commission. Similar bills have been introduced for 28 yrs.

In Week Five, this bill went to the House Floor and was passed by a vote of 61-37.

It is now in the Senate (Committee had not determined at this writing).

HB 1542/ SB 5531 – PROVIDING INDIGENT DEFENSE SERVICES

This bill changes existing law in one important respect: where current law reads that effective legal representation “should” be provided for indigent persons, the revised law would say that legal representation “must” be provided -- consistent with the constitutional requirements of fairness, equal protection, and due process in all cases where the right to counsel attaches.

In Week Five, the House bill got a Public Hearing before the House Judiciary Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

In Week Five, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1586/ SB 5575 – PERMITTING A COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY TO MAINTAIN A DIVERSE STUDENT POPULATION BY CONSIDERING RACE, COLOR, ETHNICITY, OR NATIONAL ORIGIN IN THE ADMISSION AND TRANSFER PROCESS W/OUT USING QUOTAS, PREDETERMINED POINTS, OR SET ASIDES.

This bill intends to give universities and colleges some flexibility in considering race, color, ethnicity, or national origin as positive factors in admission and transfer policies, and to promote diversity by enrolling meaningful numbers of students from groups that would not otherwise be represented. As is clear from the long, detailed title of the bill, the bill’s sponsors want to make clear they do not intend this as a green light for any form of quota or set aside system based solely on racial status. It would effectively amend I-200 to reflect a 2003 U.S. Supreme Court decision, and more recent data.

In Week Five, the House bill got a Public Hearing before the House Committee on Higher Education. Eligible for Executive Session.

In Week Five, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing before the Senate Cttee on Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education. Eligible for Executive Session.

HB 1659 – CREATING THE JOINT SELECT COMMITTEE ON EQUITABLE OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL

This bill stems from research showing that low-income and minority students encounter fewer opportunities to learn, inadequate instruction and support, and lower expectations from their schools and teachers, and that schools are not sufficiently inclusive of all cultures represented in the state's public schools. To close the achievement gap will require a comprehensive approach including: learning environments intolerant of racism and exclusion; curricula and teaching practices that recognize differences in ethnicity, language, and culture; and teacher training and professional development programs. The bill would create a Joint Select Committee on Equitable Opportunity For All, required to report its findings and recommendations, including a timeline, by September 1, 2006,

On Tuesday, 2/15 at 6:00 pm, this bill is scheduled for Executive Session in the House Education Committee. House Hearing Room B, O’Brien Building.

HB 1733 – REQUIRING PAY EQUITY FOR COMMUNITY AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE PART-TIME FACULTY.

This bill reflects the fact that community and technical colleges enroll over 60% of post-secondary students across the state, and that part-time and adjunct faculty teach nearly half of the instructional workload. In 1996, the legislature directed the state board for community and technical colleges to conduct a “best practices” audit on compensation practices and working conditions for part-time faculty, and develop a ten-year plan to improve the salaries, benefits, working conditions, and ratios of part-time to full-time faculty. With the 10-year anniversary looming, this bill would revisit the issues involved. Sometimes referred to as the migrant workers of academia, these part-time faculty have long gotten lesser compensation. This bill recognizes that – and attempts to remedy some of it.

On Thursday, 2/17 at 8:00 am, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Higher Education Committee. House Hearing Room C, O’Brien Building.

SB 5127 – I MPROVING SERVICES TO VICTIMS OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING.

This bill would improve the coordination of services by various state agencies, in order to develop protocols for improved services to victims. This bill is prompted by the fact that battered immigrants are sometimes brought into this country by abusive spouses, through fraud or coercion, and find it difficult to navigate the system that might offer help. It would create a work group to develop protocols for delivery of services to victims of human trafficking, report to the legislature by 1/1/06, and establish an award to honor those who fight human trafficking or provide services to the victims

This bill was passed out of the Rules Committee. It is now on the Senate Floor.

SB 5452 – PROHIBITING GENETIC TESTING AS A CONDITION OF LIFE INSURANCE.

Washington State was one of the last states to enact legislation that would explicitly protect the genetic information of individuals from being used in a discriminatory manner. This is of special importance to communities with a higher propensity for a variety of cancer-linked genes (e.g., African Americans with Sickle Cell Anemia and Eastern European Jews with certain genes associated with breast cancer, ovarian cancer and Tay Sachs). This bill would protect against discrimination in the sale of Life Insurance.

In Week Four this bill got a Public Hearing before the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection. Eligible for Executive Session.

SEXUAL ABUSE/DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

HB 1147 – COMMUNITY PROTECTION ZONES

This bill provides that within two years each school district shall conduct at least one public hearing regarding the question of whether the district should adopt a written policy on notifying parents and guardians of students attending a school when the school receives a sex offender community notification. The district would make a good faith effort to provide at least fourteen days' advance notice of the meeting to local media, plus all parents and guardians. The bill also

declares that nothing in this shall be interpreted to impose a duty on behalf of the school district to adopt such a policy.

In Week Three, this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Committee on Criminal Justice & Corrections. Eligible for Executive Session.

SHB 1171 – LIMITING THE COURT’S DISCRETION CONCERNING DENIAL OF DISSOLUTION DECREES

This bill would provide that the Courts may not use a petitioner’s pregnancy as a basis for denial when considering a request for dissolution of a marriage.

In Week Five this bill was amended in Executive Session and the Substitute House bill was voted DO PASS by the House Juvenile Justice and Family Law Committee. (Next referral was not available at this writing.)

HB

1294/ SB 5434 – REVISING STANDARDS FOR ANTI-HARASSMENT PROTECTION ORDER HEARINGS.

In Week Five, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Eligible for Executive Session.

The House bill is now in the House Rules Cttee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

SHB 1314 – CREATING THE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PREVENTION ACCOUNT.

This bill would establish a Domestic Violence Prevention Account within the Department of Social and Health Services, from a $10 increase in marriage license filing fees, and a $20 increase in the filing fees associated with marriage dissolution, separations, and declarations of invalidity. The fund would be used for non-shelter based services.

In Week Five , this bill was amended in Executive Session in the House Juvenile Justice and Family Law Committee, and the Substitute House bill was voted DO PASS. (Next referral not available at this writing.)

SB 5126 – DEVELOPING POLICIES, PROCEDURES, AND MANDATORY TRAINING ON SEXUAL HARRASSMENT FOR ALL STATE EMPLOYEES.

In Week Five, this bill was voted DO PASS by the Senate Committee on Labor, Commerce, Research & Development. It is now in the Senate Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

SB 5148 – REPEALING THE CRIME OF “SLANDER OF A WOMAN”

Sponsors of this bill acknowledge that this is a rarely used, archaic bit of law; the purpose is to take such anachronisms off the books. It has attracted considerable press attention simply because it sounds so colorful.

The bill is now on the Senate Floor, waiting for Floor Action.

SSB 5183 – PROVIDING TAX RELIEF TO PROMOTE AFFORDABLE HOUSING

In Week Four this bill was amended and voted DO PASS by the Financial Institutions, Housing & Insurance Committee. (Also see under HOUSING).

This bill is now in the Senate Ways& Means Committee.

SB 5350 – SHARED PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

This bill creates a presumption that (with few exceptions) shared parenting is in a child’s best interest when a parenting plan is being developed as part of a divorce proceeding. Domestic violence advocates are concerned because domestic violence victims are often not represented in family law situations, and there may be issues of potential future abuse in a shared parenting arrangement that may not be taken into account. Similar bills have been offered in the past.

This bill is now in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. No hearing scheduled yet.

HB 1057/SB 5051 – CAPITAL BUDGET

Includes money for the Housing Trust Fund. Domestic Violence advocates are seeking to both increase the total funds available to $100 million, and secure a $1.5 million set-aside (within the total) for Domestic Violence shelters and transitional housing.

The House bill is in the House Capital Budget Committee.

The Senate bill is in the Senate Ways & Means Committee.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE/TREATMENT

HB 1200 – ESTABLISHING STANDARDIZED CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY ASSESSMENT PROTOCALS

This bill intends that standardized chemical dependency assessment protocols should be required in court-involved chemical dependency cases to ensure accurate assessments and treatment plans. Assessment protocols should require background information along with a drug screen urinalysis for all assessments with an initial finding of other than substance dependence; a standardized assessment summary should be required in al