Welcome to Policy Watch 2005

WEEK 11

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 Eleven - THE SCENE

With just four weeks remaining in the Session, and the announcement of Governor Gregoire’s proposed budget this week, it is as though the Capitol campus has suddenly become a more high-pressure, high-stakes place. With the budget in writing - available to elected officials, staff, and public alike - its publication ends all the “will she/won’t she” speculation. Will she… recommend any revenue increases? (she does) Reduce the size of state government? (she does) Curtail any programs? (she does). Whether you wish to read just the highlights, or want to get into the details for specific agencies, go to: http://www.ofm.wa.gov/budget/ to find as much or as little as meets your needs.

With this part of the process underway: the halls are once again full of people; Committee action on bills sent over from the “opposite house” is in full swing; and lobbyists of all stripes – paid, underpaid, and volunteer – are hauling notebooks full of budget details as they roam the halls.

(See the new section on BUDGET for basic information on the Governor’s budget.)

THE PROCESS

Opposite House Committee Action Continues

The atmosphere in these final weeks can vary widely from Committee to Committee, as these 3 brief examples will attest. But contrary to the assumption that politics and policy-making is all about money, in all of these examples, personal experience and the voice of the voters was key.

In some Committees – those with long lists of bills to hear, amend, and vote on – the schedules are packed and tensions sometimes arise over something as minor as a witness who talks too long (thus denying another constituent an opportunity to speak). At a Committee meeting with a long list of bills to hear, one witness was sharply reminded that the Committee not only had copies of his statement, they’d heard it once before and he needed to leave time for others. He quickly summarized his comments.

1. Citizen role acknowledged. Over in the Housing Committee in the House, the atmosphere was very relaxed. When the last bill sent over from the Senate had already been heard and voted on (SB 5767 - to address the housing needs of homeless people), the Chair made a brief statement. First he graciously thanked the Committee staff, and the members of his Committee for their work – making a special point of thanking the Republican members for their spirit of bi-partisan cooperation. That sentiment was then returned by one of the Republican members who thanked the Chair for his openness to other points of view, and especially for his “willingness to hand over the gavel on occasion.” Then the Chair turned to the citizens present in the room, and thanked “the stakeholders.” To this group he said: “We need your help and assistance; we couldn’t do our job without you; we need to hear what you want, and what you think.”

2. A parent speaks. In yet another Public Hearing this week, legislators heard a dramatic first-hand account of why some parents want a change in the law concerning who can administer a shot of epinephrine to a child (SB 5708). Some children have severe allergic reactions to drugs, insect stings, even foods. In some cases they go into convulsions, become unconscious, and even die, but Epinephrine is used very successfully to treat this anaphylactic shock. Since 1999, emergency medical technicians (EMTs) in our state have been authorized to carry epinephrine and administer it to adults. However EMT’s may not give the shots to a child – unless a parent has consented either verbally or in writing. But as one young mother explained, there’s the rub.

“My son's life was saved by the fact that an EMT administered epinephrine - he was very near death when they arrived and would not have lasted the additional few minutes for paramedics to arrive. He had been at my mom's house when he had his anaphylactic reaction (she fed him eggs for the first time and we had no clue that he had any allergy at all). She called us, and then called 911. We beat the EMT's to her house by about 30 seconds, so we (as the parents) were able to give consent for treatment with epinephrine. …but we only just beat the EMT's there. If we'd hit traffic or had any delay, we would not have arrived in time to give consent and the EMT's would have legally had to sit by and watch our baby die while they waited for the paramedics to arrive.” That one mother’s testimony was powerful, but it helped that she had more than just her own experience to use in making her case. She also brought along a recently published journal article showing that EMT's do a very good job at diagnosing anaphylaxis and deciding when to give epinephrine (the article’s author had also given her a strong letter to give to the committee), plus a dozen letters from other food allergy parents urging support for the bill. (It probably also did not hurt that one Committee member is a physician, someone able to reassure other members about the possible risks involved.)

3. The role of Legislators’ own experience. Finally, one Committee heard an impassioned plea from one of its members as they prepared for a vote on House Bill 1515 – the Anti-Discrimination Act of 2005, which would give the state’s Human Rights Commission authority over claims of discrimination based on sexual orientation, just as it already has over discrimination based on race, gender, religion, and other factors. Just as the Chair was about to call for a vote on the bill, Senator Rosa Franklin asked for a few minutes to speak.

“As we have for nearly 30 years debated this issue,” she began, “…I have given it a lot of thought, …thoughts have gone back through my mind over and over. I go back to Sacco and Venzetti and how they were denied their rights because of their political beliefs… I go back to the Salem witch hunts, and how those women were denied their rights because they were seen as different… I go back to World War II and all those who were denied their rights because they were Jews… I go back to so many who for one reason or another, some quality they had, were denied their rights. As a democratic country we speak of taking human rights to other countries, but why not to those in our own backyard? I respect the opponents’ opinion. That’s what this country is all about: free expression. But this bill is about basic human rights. It says if these citizens abide by the rules, contribute to the community, they should have the same rights as any other citizens. That’s what this is about; with this bill we say that it isn’t enough for Tacoma or Seattle to recognize people’s rights – this bill is about protecting the rights of everyone, wherever they live. And…” she paused, “I am a Christian.” The bill passed out of the Committee, 6-4.

What happens next?

Committees are moving quickly through the bills that are sent to them. Just as happened in the “house of origin,” those bills involving costs are passed along to one of the fiscal Committees; those with little or no cost go straight to the Rules Committee, and from there – time permitting – out to the floor. The end of next week – April 1 – marks another “Cut-off :” Policy Committees need to have finished their work on “opposite house” bills. Mere days later, at the end of April 4, those with cost implications must be voted out by an “opposite house” fiscal Committee (Appropriations or Finance in the House; Ways & Means in the Senate) and be headed to the Rules Committee… and the Floor. The 2005 Session has just four weeks to go.

PRACTICAL TIP: If there is a service or activity you care about that is likely to be affected by the budget, be sure to let your Senator and Representatives know. The Senate and House versions of the budget are still being revised, and final decisions are still a few weeks away.

DON’T FORGET: It only takes one version of a bill to pass. If there were both House and Senate bills, and one is dead – focus on the one that is still alive. That’s your vehicle. If a bill you care about is still alive, the Governor, your Senator, and both your Representatives can be reached in one brief message, left with an operator at the Toll-Free Hot-Line: 1-800-562-6000.

SNAPSHOTS.

** Report from one of the many Town Hall Meetings hosted by legislators last Saturday. A NAMI (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) member reports: “I raised the issue of budget cuts for mental health. I didn't get a good answer, however many in the audience expressed support of this issue. Sometimes just saying something gets people thinking, talking, supporting; and my legislators listened.... Another fellow expressed the view that needed programs and services are being cut and so do not be afraid to raise taxes. He was the only speaker to receive a round of applause.”

** Report from another Town Hall Meeting. “About 100 people showed up. I realized that at first, most of those who spoke up or asked questions were people at the extremes, so a few of us started speaking up. Suddenly, it seemed really important that some our legislators hear from more than just the angry people on the fringes.”

** A legislator rushing from one Committee to another with no time in between was observed to have one candy bar half-eaten, and two more sticking out of his pocket. Explanation: for busy legislators with no time between meetings, candy bars = lunch.

** More Olympia Jargon: This time of year it is common to see an “E” in front of a bill number. That stands for “Engrossed,” which just means the bill includes all the amendments agreed to in its House of Origin.

** Gender Watch: Among the Committees in our state’s House of Representatives, 13 of the “lead” staff are female, 7 are male. Of the professional staff overall, 29 are female, 24 are male.

PART III - SOME ISSUES

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

Aging/Long-Term Care
Budget
Children
Child Welfare
Disabilities
Health Care
Housing/Homelessness
Hunger and Nutrition
Income Supports/Welfare
Juveniles/Youth
Mental Health
Revenues/Tax Policy
Rights/Opportunities
Sexual Abuse/Domestic Violence
Substance Abuse
Miscellaneous

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

REMINDER:

House Bill numbers begin with 1 or 2;

Senate Bill numbers begin with 5 or 6.

Thus a bill identified as SB 6264 is the 1,264th Senate Bill introduced in the session; HB 1058 would be the 58th bill introduced in the House. More recent bills have higher numbers.

AGING/LONG-TERM CARE

HB 1041 – REVISING THE NURSING FACILITY MEDICAID PAYMENT SYSTEM.

This bill appears DEAD. See note for HB 1571/ SB 5569.

HB 1078 – TRANSFERRING THE HOME CARE QUALITY AUTHORITY TO THE DEPT. OF SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES.

This bill appears DEAD.

HB 1773/ SB 5758 – INCREASING THE PERSONAL NEEDS ALLOWANCE FOR NURSING FACILITY RESIDENTS.

Elderly and disabled persons getting publicly-financed care contribute towards the cost of their care, but a small portion of their income is set aside for personal needs. This “personal needs allowance” is just $41.62 per month (for clothing, personal maintenance, incidentals), $11.62 of it in the form of a state supplement. The amount has not been changed since 1988, when the federal portion of the allowance was raised from $25 to $30. This bill would increase the personal needs allowance to $58.84 per month.

Both the House and Senate bills appear DEAD – but the issue may be dealt with as a Budget Proviso.

Prescription Drugs

These prescription drug bills are all still moving - in some cases after being amended yet again.

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

This bill attempts to deal with the increase in prescription drug purchases from Canada, and the desire to ensure the safety of drugs purchased this way. The bill thus authorizes the state board of pharmacy to regulate nonresident Canadian pharmacies, directs the board to develop a reciprocal licensing agreement with Health Canada or an applicable Canadian province. If the board is unable to develop such an agreement, it will develop a process to license nonresident pharmacies through on-site inspection and certification.

In Week Eleven, this bill (with amendments; it is now Second Substitute House Bill) got a Public Hearing and Executive Session in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Committee.

Next it goes to the Senate Ways & Means Committee.

HB 1194 – REGARDING RE-IMPORTATION OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS.

This bill would authorize agencies that administer state-purchased health care programs to purchase prescription drugs from Canadian sources, provided they are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It would also require the state Health Care Authority to develop a website to inform people on opportunities to purchase prescription drugs from Canadian pharmacies.

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing and Executive Session in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Committee. Next it goes to the Senate Ways & Means Committee.

SHB 1219/ SB 5471 – AUTHORIZING A PRESCRIPTION DRUG PURCHASING CONSORTIUM

This bill would require the state Health Care Authority to adopt policies necessary for establishing a prescription drug purchasing consortium. The state-purchased health care programs would then (in most cases) purchase prescription drugs through the consortium for those prescription drugs that are purchased directly by the state, and those that are purchased through reimbursement of pharmacies.

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

In Week Eleven, the Senate bill was voted DO PASS by the House Health Care Committee. On Monday, 3/28 at 3:30 pm, it will get a Public Hearing in the House Approp-riations Cttee. House Hearing Room A, O’Brien Building. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

2ndSHB 1316/ SB 5470 – ALLOWING THE IMPORTATION OF CERTAIN PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FROM CANADIAN WHOLESALERS

This bill is similar to HB 1168, but is concerned with the purchase of prescription drugs from approved Canadian wholesalers. It asks that by 9/1/05, the state Pharmacy Board - in consultation with the Department of Health and the Health Care Authority- submit a waiver request to the federal Food and Drug Administration to authorize the state of Washington to license Canadian prescription drug wholesalers, thereby providing retail pharmacies licensed in Washington the opportunity to purchase prescription drugs from approved Canadian wholesalers and pass those savings on to consumers. It also asks that by 12/1/05, the state Pharmacy Board -in consultation with the Department of Health and the Health Care Authority-give a detailed implementation plan to the Governor and appropriate Committees of the Legislature to use to implement each component of the waiver under this act. (See also SB 6020.)

In Week Eleven , the Senate bill was voted DO PASS by the House Health Care Committee. On Monday, 3/28 at 3:30 pm, it will get a Public Hearing in the House Appropriations Committee. House Hearing Room A, O’Brien Building.

In Week Eleven, the House bill (with amendments; it is now Second Substitute House Bill) got a Public Hearing in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Committee. Eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

HB 1677/ SB 5558 – ESTABLISHING A PRESCRIPTION DRUG ASSISTANCE FOUNDATION

Some pharmaceutical manufacturers have developed prescription drug assistance programs to provide free or low cost drugs to those unable to afford them, but applicants are often required to apply multiple times during a year, and wait while the application is processed. These factors can present significant barriers to the use of these programs by those who need them. In some states, non-profit organizations have been created to streamline and reduce variations in these assistance programs. This bill would require the Health Care Authority to establish a nonprofit foundation in Washington, to assist uninsured individuals obtain free or low cost prescription drugs if their income is below 300 percent of the federal poverty level. A five-member board of directors will be appointed by the Governor. An amendment bans the use of state general fund money for the on-going operation of the foundation.

The House bill appears DEAD.

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

2SHB 1220/ SB 5442 – ESTABLISHING A JOINT LEGISLATIVE AND EXECUTIVE TASK FORCE ON LONG-TERM CARE FINANCING & 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.

In Week Eleven, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Cttee. Eligible for Executive Session.

In Week Eleven, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the House Health Care Committee. Eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

HB 1569/ SB 5698 – REGARDING QUALITY ASSURANCE IN BOARDING HOMES< NURSING HOMES, HOSPITALS, PEER REIEW ORGANIZATIONS, AND QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PLANS.

This bill would promote sharing of quality assurance information between boarding homes, nursing homes, coordinated quality improvement plans, peer review organizations, and hospitals to promote safe patient care and ensure consistency of care across organizations and practices.

In Week Eleven, the House bill got a Public Hearing and Executive Session in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Committee. It is now in the Senate Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

The Senate bill appears DEAD.

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.

Both bills appear DEAD, but the issue may be considered “necessary for the budget.”

SB 5277 – REQUIRING PLANS THAT PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR PROSTHESES TO PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR HEARING AIDS.

This bill appears DEAD.

Budget Item:

Advocates for aged and disabled senior citizens are seeking $14.4 million over the next two years for a variety services to the frail elderly (e.g., to increase Adult Day Health payments, expand the Dementia Care Boarding Home pilot, increase support for the Long Term Care Ombudsman, increase the Personal Needs Allowance for people in nursing facilities, increase the Respite Care and Senior Citizens Services Act Programs) and to maintain the Personal Care Program.

The Governor’s Budget does not include any of these items, and would cut $12 million from the Personal Care Services program (and forego an additional $12 million in federal matching funds), causing 1,800 to lose services. On the plus side, it would fund a study of long-term care financing, and provide for small (1.5%, 2%) increases in boarding/adult family home rates.

The Governor’s Budget would also save $26.7 million through a Nursing Home Rate Reduction. (Not spending state dollars for this purpose also foregoes matching federal funds.)
This item limits growth in the statewide average nursing home daily rate by setting the rate at $145.15 for both fiscal years of the 2005-07 Biennium. Current statewide averages are below this level. Rates paid to nursing home facilities will not be reduced as long as the statewide average remains below the legislated level set by this item.

BUDGET

The Governor’s Proposed Biennial (Two Year) Budget - 2005-2007

In getting ready to vote on the state’s operating budget for the next two years, legislators will have three versions to draw from. The Governor’s came out early in Week Eleven; the Senate version is expected to be out on March 28; and the House version is expected a few days later. (This report only touches on items affecting health, human services, and overall revenues; it does not include budget items related to public safety, natural resources, economic development, etc.)

The broad outline is that we have a two-year budget totaling almost $26 billion, with a $1.5-1.6 billion deficit. By law, the legislature is required to produce a balanced budget – which means they have to find ways to either raise more revenues, or cut current activities, or agree on some combination of the two. This week we learned how Governor Gregoire would do it.

The Governor would realize $1.4 billion in: program cuts, staff reductions, and funding shifts. She would raise $203 million in new revenues.

Among the changes proposed by the Governor to deal with the deficit: Cigarette taxes would be raised by .20/pack to generate $73 million; $129 million would be raised by partially restoring the recently-eliminated state estate tax; $66 million would be saved by eliminating 1,000 state jobs; $36 million would be saved through sentencing reforms; $82 million would come from cuts in health and human services; $524 million comes from changes/deferrals in payments to the state pension system; $100 million would become available by shifting funds from a “working capitol fund.” Some of these proposed changes are one-time changes, not available again in the future.

Among items regarded as good news by human services advocates, the Governor’s budget:

Includes some additional funding for higher education (6,600 enrollment slots and basic adult education, plus modest expansions of campuses and financial aid).
Includes additional money for K-12 education: $138 million to help reduce classroom size, $139 million to increase teacher salaries, $92 million for special education and high school students.
Restores $80 million in lost federal funding for mental health services.
Adds $8.6 million for health care, including increased Medicaid enrollment, adding 26,000 children to Medicaid, restoring coverage for 16,700 children of immigrants, and maintaining enrollment for poor adults in the Basic Health Plan.
Provides $33 million for a small cost-of-living increase for those providing 24-hour care to vulnerable people (e.g., some foster care, residential care, crisis intervention).
Adds $17.4 million in increased funding for alcohol and drug abuse treatment.

Among items regarded by human services advocates as bad news, the budget:

Saves $18 million by cutting 3,700 elderly and disabled individuals from modest grants ($339/month) under General Assistance for the Unemployable (GAU).
Saves $21 million by making it more difficult for about 2,000 elderly and disabled people to qualify for in-home care.
Fails to address the childcare, support services, and training for people in the WorkFirst program which are threatened due to a $65 million welfare funding shortage.
Fails to increase child care subsidy rates (currently among the lowest in the nation, paying just 26% of actual costs).
Saves $7.2 million by eliminating the Readiness-To-Learn program for at-risk children.

(Additional specifics may be found at the end of each section of POLICY WATCH.)

As might be imagined from even these few examples, the Governor’s budget has given rise to both praise and criticism. From the perspective of the health and human services community, it is a mixed proposition: including funding for many things they support – though not always to the extent desired – and raising some additional revenues to avoid some of the deepest cuts. At the same time the revenues raised are modest, and thus a number of services important to very vulnerable people remain marked for cuts.

Federal Budget Plays An Important Role

At the same time that our attention is turned to the State Budget, our U.S. Senators and Representatives are trying to agree on Budget Resolutions affecting the Federal Budget. The process in Washington, DC is different in a number of respects, but nearly one-third of our state’s total budget comes from federal sources. For example, the dollars our state allocates to Medicaid for children or personal care for frail seniors are matched by federal dollars; programs like Head Start, some Housing subsidies, and Food Stamps are almost entirely funded by federal dollars; federal dollars help finance our schools, our hospitals, prisons, farms, and transportation systems. Medical research – an important activity in Washington – is heavily dependent on federal grants. Large “block grants” like CDBG (for Community Development), SSBG (for Social Services), or CCDBG (for Child Care and Development) bring vitally important federal funds into city and county governments all across our state.

So it is worth noting that on March 17 the U.S. House and the U.S. Senate each voted for their own versions of the federal budget. Working from the President’s list of $214 billion in proposed non-defense cuts, they include cuts of roughly $1.3 billion in grants-in-aid to the state of Washington over the next five years. Even without these proposed cuts we face serious deficits in our state; with reductions on the scale being considered, many vital functions could grind to a halt.

The two versions differ. E.g., the House would cut $20 billion from Medicaid nationwide; the Senate rejected that, but voted to cut $64 billion from the Medicare Hospital Insurance fund (to give an additional tax break to households with average net worth over $1 million). Both would take substantial sums from health and human services. Among the activities slated for cuts if the current plans survive are HIV/AIDS treatment, medical research, veterans’ health care, child care, WIC, Head Start, Food Stamps, subsidized housing, and much, much more.

Practical Tip:

Our U.S. Senators and Representatives are back home in Washington for a “Spring District Work Period” that lasts until they reconvene on April 4. Many of our 9 U.S. Representatives and 2 U.S. Senators are holding “Town Hall Meetings” or office visits, to hear from the voters during this time. Anyone can attend, and anyone can raise questions about the proposed budget plans – program expenditures, tax expenditures (i.e., tax breaks), new costs or revenues -- anything.

CHILDREN

Work Session:

On Wednesday 3/30 at 8:00 am, the House Children & Family Services Committee will have a Work Session on Parents Representation Program in House Hearing Room D, in the O’Brien Building.

HB 1052/ SB 5047 – PREVENTION QUALITY CONTROL COUNCIL

Both the House and Senate bills appear DEAD.

HB 1097/S 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 3/28 at 3:30 pm, the House Bill will be part of a Work Session in theSenate Transportation Committee that will consider all the bills that would create new license plates, in Senate Hearing Room 1, in the Cherberg Building. This bill must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

The Senate bill is now in the House Transportation Committee and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SHB 1178- ENSURING THE RIGHTS OF PARENTS TO MONITOR THE COMMUNICATIONS AND CONVERSATIONS OF THEIR MINOR CHILDREN

This bill appears to be DEAD.

HB 1278 - REGARDING THE INVESTIGATION OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT

This bill appears to be DEAD.

SHB 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 Wednesday 3/30 at 3:30 pm, this bill will get a Public hearing in the Senate Water, Energy & Environment Committee. Senate Hearing Room 4, in the Cherberg Building. This bill must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SHB 2029/ SB 5903 – REQUIRING THE DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF PUBLIC DEFENSE TO OVERSEE AND MONITOR LEGAL REPRESENTATION OF PARENTS IN DEPENDENCY AND TERMINATION PROCEEDING

This bill means to enhance the quality of legal representation in dependency and termination hearings. Attorneys, and agencies providing representation shall comply with the following: 1) Meet caseload requirements for dependency and termination cases, in accordance with standards published by the Office of Public Defense; 2) Implement enhanced defense attorney practice standards published by the Office of Public Defense, including reasonable case preparation and the delivery of adequate client advice; and 3) Use investigative and expert services.

The House bill appears to be DEAD.

The Senate bill is now in the House Judiciary Committee, and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

HB 2039 – CHANGING PROVISIONS RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES FOR CHILDREN.

This bill appears DEAD.

HB 2068 – CREATING OPPORTUNITY FOR CHILDREN TO TESTIFY IN DISSOLUTION PROCEEDINGS

This bill appears DEAD.

S HB 2181/ 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.

The House Bill appears to be DEAD.

On Monday 3/28 at 1:30 pm, the Senate bill will get a Public hearing in the House Children & Family Services Committee in Hearing Room D in the O’Brien Building. This bill must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SSB 5081 – AUTHORIZING MONITORING OF A CHILD’S TELEPHONE CONVERSATIONS BY PARENT OR GUARDIAN

This bill appears to be DEAD.

SSB 5125 - REDUCING HEAVY METALS IN CHILD USE AREA SOILS

This bill appears to be DEAD.

SSB 5188 - CREATING THE CHILDREN’S ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND PROTECTION ADVISORY COUNCIL

This bill appears to be DEAD.

SB 5189 - REDUCING CHILDHOOD LEAD EXPOSURE

This bill appears to be DEAD.

SB 5269 - MAINTAINING THE RESIDENTIAL PARENTING PROGRAM AT THE WOMEN’S CORRECTIONAL CENTER

This bill appears to be DEAD.

SSB 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 Ten, this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Children & Family Services Committee. It is eligible for Executive Session but must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SSB 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 Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Criminal Justice & Correc-tions Cttee. It is now eligible for Executive Session, and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SB 5350 – SHARED PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

This bill appears DEAD.

SSB 5600 – ENCOURAGING EMPLOYERS TO BE INFANT FRIENDLY

This bill appears to be DEAD.

SSB 5633 – REVISING PROVISIONS RELATING RETENTION OF INFORMATION CONCERNING UNFOUNDED ALLEGATIONS OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT

This appears to be DEAD.

ESSB 5872 – CREATING A DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY & CHILDREN

The original bill would have created a new government agency consisting of the current Children’s Administration and the Juvenile Rehabilitation Administration. That was rejected. Instead, a Substitute bill was passed which creates a seven-member task force to study the structure for a potential new department of family and children's services. The Study findings and recommendations are to be reported to the legislature by December, 2005.

On Monday 3/28 at 1:30 pm, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Children & Family Services Committee. House Hearing Room D, in the O’Brien Building. It must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SSB 5873 – REVISING THE DUTIES OF THE FAMILY AND CHILDREN’S OMBUDSMAN.

This bill appears to be DEAD.

SB 5875 – CLARIFYING THE INTERESTS OF PARENTS AND ALLEGED FATHERS UNDER THE JUVENILE COURT ACT .

This bill appears to be DEAD.

SB 5944 – REGARDING GRANDPARENT VISITATION

This bill appears DEAD .

SB 5996 - PROVIDING A PROCEDURE FOR COURT-ORDERED CONTACT WITH A CHILD FOR NON-PARENTS

This bill appears DEAD.

CHILD WELFARE

SHB 1190/ E2SSB 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.

The House bill appears to be DEAD.

On Monday 3/28 at 1:30 pm, the Senate bill will get an Executive Session in the House Children & Family Services Committee in House Hearing Room D, in the O’Brien Building.

SHB 1280 - EXTENDING THE KINSHIP CARE OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE

This bill extends the Kinship Care Oversight Committee and its duties.

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Correc-tions Committee. It is now eligible for Executive Session and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SHB 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.

Hearing Rescheduled: On Monday 3/28 at 10:00 am, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee, in Senate Hearing Room 1, in the Cherberg Building. It must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

HB 1391 – ESTABLISHING A WORK GROUP TO STUDY SERVICES AND PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN

This bill appears to be DEAD.

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.

The House bill is now in the Senate Judiciary Committee.

In Week Ten, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the House Juvenile Justice & Family Law Committee. This bill is eligible for Executive Session; at least one of the bills must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

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 Eleven, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Cttee. It is now eligible for Executive Session, and must be acted on by 4/1.

In Week Ten, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the House Children & Family Services Cttee. It is now eligible for Executive Session and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SHB 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 (see bill description), 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.)

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Correc-tions Cttee. It is now eligible for Executive Session and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SHB 1482 – REVISING PROVISIONS ON CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT

. This bill appears DEAD.

SHB 1663 – CREATING THE PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION INVESTMENT COUNCIL

This bill appears DEAD.

2SHB 2030/ SSB 6008 – REVISING PROVISIONS RELATING TO GUARDIANSHIP OF DEPENDENT CHILDREN

This bill creates a Juvenile Guardianship Legal Option for dependent children. The current dependency guardianship option would be eliminated.

On Monday 3/28 at 10:00 am, the House bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Service & Corrections Committee. Senate Hearing Room 1 in the Cherberg Building. This bill must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

T he Senate bill appears to be DEAD.

HB 2119 – PRIVATIZING CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT

This bill appears DEAD.

SHB 2156 – RE DEPENDENCY AND TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

This bill would limit the time a parent may be given to correct his or her parental deficiencies and that a parent must not be given repeated opportunities at the expense of the safety and stability of the child.

This bill is now in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. The bill must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SSB5308 – AN ACT RELATING TO MANDATORY REPORTING OF CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT

This bill requires that persons, in their supervisory capacity with a profit or non-profit organization, believe that a child has been abused or neglected by someone over whom they have supervisory authority, shall report the incident to the proper law enforcement agency. The bill was amended to read that supervisors are not required to report child abuse if they receive the information as the result of a privileged communication as defined in RCW5.60.060. The current list of mandatory reporters is not limited by the reference to supervisors.

On Monday 3/28 at 1:30 pm, this bill will get an Executive Session in the House Children & Family Services Committee, in House Hearing Room D, in the O’ Brien Building.

SSB 5666 – 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 Ten, this bill got a Public hearing in the House Children & Family Services Committee. This bill is eligible for Executive Session and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SB 5880 – REGISTERING PRIVATE YOUTH COACHES

This bill appears DEAD.

SSB 5922 – CHANGING PROCEDURES FOR INVESTIGATION OF CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT

This bill provides that the training of child protective workers shall include, but is not limited to, the worker's legal duties to protect the rights of a child, and the child's family member, throughout the child and family member's period of involvement with the Department. The curriculum used for the training shall specifically include instruction on the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, and parents' legal rights.

On Monday 3/28 at 1:30 pm, the bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Children & Family Services Committee. Hearing Room D in the O’Brien Building. It must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SB 6007 - INCREASING CHILD SAFETY BY REQUIRING TRANSITION SERVICES IN CHILD PLACEMENT MATTERS.

This bill appears DEAD.

SCR 8404 – SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REVIEW TRAINING OF THE CHILDREN’S ADMINISTRATION CASEWORKERS

This Concurrent Resolution establishes a committee to review all aspects of the current Children’s Administration caseworker training academy curriculum on child abuse and neglect, as well as caseworker supervisor training. The committee is also directed to review best practices for caseworker and supervisor training as identified by the Council on Accreditation. The committee would be staffed by the Washington Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect. It would consist of Children’s Administration employees, WA Federation of State Employees, WA Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, Department of Health, the Office of the Family and Children’s Ombudsman, Office of the Attorney General, Office of Public Defense, Prosecutors, Superior Court Judges, and four members of the legislature. Input would be sought from experts in child abuse and neglect, as needed, to develop recommendations. A final report would be submitted to the legislature by September 30, 2006.

This Resolution was referred to the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee but has not been scheduled for a hearing. Resolutions do not have the force of law and are not subject to the cut-off dates

Budget Issues:

Children’s advocates are seeking $24 million in funding for a variety of child welfare reforms. The Governor’s Budget: Provides $13 million f or several components of “Kids Come First”- e.g.,CPS/CWS model and Parent Aides.

The Governor’s Budget does not include funds for Education Coordinators, Relative Search Specialists, or Post Adoption/Guardianship Resource Centers ($5 million), all related to the Braam Court Decision settlement.

Advocates are also seeking funding for a variety of small initiatives, none of which are included in the Governor’s Budget. Among them are: $25,000 for a Postpartum Depression Public Awareness Campaign; $300,000 for a Kinship Care Navigator Program; and $650,000) f or Children’s Advocacy Centers.

DISABILITIES

HB 1040 – REGARDING THE OPERATION OF HABILITATION CENTERS.

This bill appears DEAD.

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.

Both the House and Senate bills appear DEAD but supporters are trying to find a way to keep the issue alive.

HB 1122 – PROVIDING FOR TRAINING TEACHERS FOR THE DEAF.

This bill appears DEAD.

HB 1328 / SB 5192– ESTABLISHING THE COMPOSITION AND JURISDICTION OF CITY AND COUNTY DISABILITY BOARDS.

The House bill was voted DO PASS in the Senate Committee on Ways & Means.

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

The Senate bill appears DEAD.

HB 1416/ SB 6052 – EXPANDING THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CASELOAD FORECAST COUNCIL

Both bills appear DEAD.

HB 1519–RE 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. This bill appears DEAD.

2SSHB1791 - is a bill with a similar purpose, though limited only to proceeds from leasing. In Week Eleven, this bill was amended and voted DO PASS in the Senate Ways & Means Committee. It now includes the option of selling property, specifies that trust funds are to be used for employment/day and family support for the un-served, and removesYakima Valley School. It is now in the Senate Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

SB 5702 - is a similar, though not identical, Senate bill. In Week Eleven itgot aPublic Hearing in the House Capital Budget Committee. It is now eligible for Executive Session, and needs action by 4/1 to survive.

All three 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.

HB 1587/ SB 5680 – RE 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 Eleven, the House bill was voted DO PASS in the Senate Ways & Means Committee. It is now in the Senate Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

In Week Eleven, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the House Capital Budget Committee. It is now eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

HB 2126 – PROVIDING ACCOMMODATION TO DEPENDENT PERSONS WHO ARE CRIME VICTIMS AND WITNESSES

This bill stems from the fact that vulnerable adults are more likely to be victims of crime, but when they are abused, neglected or exploited it is often difficult to prosecute the perpetrator. Prosecutors face multiple barriers because victims of crimes who have disabilities or are elderly are often unavailable to testify at trial; the abusers often are caregivers, service providers and/or family members on whom the victim depends for survival; and for other reasons. This bill would give prosecutors additional tools with which to prosecute these crimes, including the right to request a video-taped deposition if it is likely that the victim will be unavailable to testify at the trial, and various supports and accommodations for victims of crimes who have disabilities.

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Judiciary Committee. It is now eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

HB 2181/ 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.

The House bill appears DEAD.

On Tuesday, 3/28 at 1:30 pm, the Senate bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Children & Family Services Committee. House Hearing Room D, O’Brien Building. Also TVW.

Needs executive action by 4/1 to survive.

HB 2190– FOR COMMISSION TO STUDY CARE OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

The bill would establish a commission in the Governor's Office to review the need for, and

existing capacity of, residential services for individuals with developmental disabilities

This bill appears DEAD, but supporters are trying to keep the issue alive.

SSB 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 Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Education Committee. It is now eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

Budget items:

The Governor’s budget includes several increases sought by the disability community. Among them are: an increase for the Learning Assistance Program – important to children in special education programs; $2.4 million to expand employment opportunities for students with disabilities graduating from high school, $300,000 to serve 150 (of the 8,600) children age 12 and older on the Family Support Opportunities Wait List; $1.4 million to help children at risk of institutionalization; $4 million for persons being discharged/diverted from state facilities).

Advocates were relieved to see no cut in the “Ticket to Work” for workers with disabilities.

Meanwhile, other activities would be cut under the Governor’s proposal: in-home care, and Medicaid Personal Care. This latter item alone will affect 1,600 adults receiving Medicaid Personal Care, COPES and nursing home services. (See also Aging & Long-Term Care.) Changes in COPES will cause 200 children and adults with developmental disabilities to lose services, for a savings of $560,000.

HEALTH CARE

HB 1109 – MODIFYING DESIGNATED SMOKING AREA REQUIREMENTS

This bill appears DEAD.

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

Both the House and Senate bills appear DEAD.

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.

The Senate bill appears DEAD.

In Week Eleven, the House bill got a vote of DO PASS in the Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care. It is now in the Senate Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

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

This bill appears DEAD.

Prescription Drugs

These prescription drug bills are all still moving - in some cases after being amended yet again.

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

In Week Eleven, this bill (with amendments; it is now Second Substitute House Bill) got a Public Hearing and Executive Session in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Committee.

Next it goes to the Senate Ways & Means Committee.

HB 1194 – REGARDING RE-IMPORTATION OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS.

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing and Executive Session in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Committee. Next it goes to the Senate Ways & Means Committee.

SHB 1219/ SB 5471 – AUTHORIZING A PRESCRIPTION DRUG PURCHASING CONSORTIUM

In Week Eleven, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Committee. Eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

In Week Eleven, the Senate bill was voted DO PASS by the House Health Care Committee. On Monday, 3/28 at 3:30 pm, it will get a Public Hearing in the House Appropriations Committee. House Hearing Room A, O’Brien Building.

2ndSHB 1316/ SB 5470 – ALLOWING THE IMPORTATION OF CERTAIN PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FROM CANADIAN WHOLESALERS

HB 1677/ SB 5558 – ESTABLISHING A PRESCRIPTION DRUG ASSISTANCE FOUNDATION

The House bill appears DEAD.

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

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

Both the House and Senate bills appear DEAD.

SHB 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. Several Floor Amendments were adopted.

The Senate bill appears DEAD.

In Week Ten, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Cttee on Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education. Eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

HB 1371/ SB 5368 – MODIFYING NURSE MANDATORY OVERTIME PROHIBITION

Both the House and Senate bills appear DEAD.

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

This House bill appears DEAD .

SHB 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.

On Tuesday, 3/29 at 1:30 pm, the House bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Cttee on Water, Energy and the Environment. Senate Hearing Room 4, Cherberg Building. AlsoTVW. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

T he Senate bill appears DEAD .

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.

The House bill appears DEAD – but it may reappear as a budget proviso .

On Tuesday, 3/29 at 8:00 pm (note the hour), the Senate bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Health Care Committee. House Hearing Room A, O’Brien Building. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

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. As amended in the Policy Committee, it would restore many of the cuts to children’s health care made by the legislature in recent years, though somewhat scaled back from the bill originally introduced. Two key features of the Substitute House Bill: it would prohibit implementation of Medicaid premiums, and it would re-establish the Children’s Health Program. Funding will be key (e.g., to pay for the care of immigrant children and legal resident children here less than five years).

In the House Appropriations Committee the bill was stripped of all but the “intent” clause. Supporters hope to restore some of what was lost in Appropriations.

It did not get a vote on the House Floor but it remains alive the in House Rules Committee, to be revived as a bill "necessary to implement the budget" after the cut-off deadlines. Some elements require statutory authority, and supporters will pursue this issue during the budget process. Elements of the bill are included in the Governor’s budget.

HB 1486 – REQUIRING APPLICANTS FOR STATE PURCHASED HEALTH BENEFITS OR UNCOMPENSATED HOSPITAL CARE TO IDENTIFY EMPLOYERS

This bill would help the state determine the employers of Medicaid and BHP recipients.

In Week Eleven , this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Committee on Health and Long-Term Care. Eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

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 Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Cttee on Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education. Eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

HB 1512/ SB 5390 – CONCERNING IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF CARE IN

STATE-PURCHASED HEALTH PROGRAMS.

This bill hopes to reward improvements in health outcomes for individuals with chronic diseases, increased use of preventive health services, particularly for children, and reductions in medical errors; and increase, the use of information technology that contributes to improved health outcomes, better coordination of care, and decreased medical errors.

On Monday, 3/28 at 1:30 pm, the House bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Cttee. Senate Hearing Room 4, Cherberg Building.

In Week Eleven, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the House Health Care Cttee. It is now eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

SHB 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.

On Wednesday, 3/30 at 8:00 am, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Committee. Senate Hearing Room 4, Cherberg Building. Also on TVW.

Needs executive action by 4/1 to survive.

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

This bill appears DEAD.

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

Both the House and Senate bills appear DEAD.

HB 1714/ SB 5592 – PROHIBITING SMOKING IN PUBLIC PLACES

Both the House and Senate bills appear DEAD. (see also HB 2038 and SB 5909.)

HB 1904/ SSB 5841 – PROVIDING FOR THE PREVENTION, DIAGNOSIS, and TREATMENT OF ASTHMA.

This bill stems from the fact that asthma is the most common long-term disease of children. (The Washington asthma prevalence rate is among the highest, with an estimated 450,000 adults and 150,000 children affected.) A 2004 federal law directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to give preference in grant-making to states that require public elementary and secondary schools to allow students to self-administer medication to treat asthma or anaphylaxis.
This bill would make Washington eligible for such grants. It would require a uniform policy for all school districts regarding the training of school staff about children with asthma, adoption of policies regarding asthma rescue procedures and prevention policies. Plus, all elementary and secondary schools must authorize any student to self-administer medication to treat his or her asthma or anaphylaxis where appropriate. Other sections require better coordination and the collection of data regarding prevalence. (See also SB 5708 – regarding EMT/s and Epinephrine.)

The House bill appears DEAD .

On Tuesday, 3/29 at 8:00 pm (note the hour), the Senate bill will get a Public Hearing in the House Health Care Cttee. House Hearing Room A, O’Brien Building. Needs action by 4/1.

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. (See also SB 5909.)

This bill passed the Full Senate by a vote of 38-9. It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

SSB 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.

This bill remains in the House Judiciary Committee. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

SB 5068 – PROVIDING HEALTH INFORMATION FOR YOUTH

This bill appears DEAD.

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

This bill appears DEAD.

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

This bill appears DEAD.

SB 5189 – REDUCING CHILDHOOD LEAD EXPOSURE.

This bill appears DEAD.

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.

This bill did not get Floor Action before the cut-off, but supporters are trying to keep the issue alive in the budget process.

SB 5909– REVISING REGULATION OF INDOOR SMOKING FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROTECTING MINORS AND PUBLIC HEALTH

This bill appears DEAD.

HB 2038 – ENACTING A COMPLETE STATEWIDE SMOKING BAN IN PUBLIC PLACES

This bill appears DEAD.

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

This bill appears DEAD.

HB 2133/ SB 5888 – ADDRESSING ACCESS TO INDIVIDUAL HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE

Both the House and Senate bills appear DEAD.

Budget Items:

Under the Governor’s Budget, $29 million would be available to increase the Hospital Vendor Rates paid to Washington state hospitals for inpatient and outpatient care, on 1/1/06 and 1/1/07, with proportionally higher increases going to the hospitals with the lowest cost of care.

The Governor also includes much of the funding needed to provide child health coverage (much like HB 1441) – funds for 12-month continuous eligibility, a delay in premiums, and a partial restoration of immigrant children’s health coverage.

Health care advocates were pleased to see no reduction in Community Health Center grants, Adult Dental Care, or the Basic Health Plan.

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 Eleven the House bill got a Public Hearing and was voted DO PASS in Executive Session in the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Housing and Consumer Protection. Needs executive action by 4/1 to survive.

The Senate bill appears DEAD.

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 Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing/Executive Session in the Senate Committee on Government Operations, and was referred to the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection, without any recommendation. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

HB 1583/ SSB 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.

The House bill appears DEAD.

In Week Eleven , the Senate bill was taken up in Executive Session and voted DO Pass by the House Committee on Housing.

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

This bill appears DEAD.

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

This bill appears DEAD.

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.

In Week Eleven, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection. Eligible for Executive Session. Needs executive action by 4/1 to survive.

The Senate bill appears DEAD.

HB 1810 – ENDING HOMELESSNESS IN THE STATE OF WASHINGTON

This bill appears DEAD.

HB 2013 – PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATION BASED ON SOURCE OF INCOME

This bill appears DEAD.

HB 2026 – ESTABLISHING THE WASHINGTON RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.

This bill appears DEAD.

2ndSHB 2163 – ESTABLISHING A HOMELESS HOUSING PROGRAM

Among its provisions, this bill includes legislative intent language that homelessness in Washington is to be ended by 2015; and it also carries new revenues to be devoted to this purpose (through increases in the recording fee). Concerns were raised during testimony and the bill is being re-written to address them; that may not be possible in the time remaining.

On Wednesday, 3/30 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. Also on TVW. Needs executive action by 4/1 to survive.

SSB 5183 – PROVIDING TAX RELIEF TO PROMOTE AFFORDABLE HOUSING.

This bill appears DEAD.

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.

In Week Eleven, this bill was taken up in Executive Session and voted DO PASS by the House Committee on Housing.

SSB 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).

In Week Eleven, this bill was taken up in Executive Session and voted DO PASS by the House Committee on Housing.

SB 6044 – PROVIDING HOUSING ASSISTANCE FOR LOW-INCOME PERSONS

This bill appears DEAD.

Budget Item

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. This bill is not subject to the regular cut-offs.

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

The House bill is in the House Capital Budget Cttee. Both need action by 4/1 to survive.

The Governor’s Budget does not provide for any increase in the Housing Trust Fund.

NOTE: There was 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, and all 11 members of the state’s delegation to the U.S. Congress, to recognize and address the growing epidemic of homelessness, and take action. 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 Joint Memorials appear DEAD.

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, to maintain current program levels and give small farmers access to income.

Both bills appear DEAD, but supporters hope to keep the issue alive as a Budget Proviso.

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.)

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Cttee on Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education. Eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

Budget Item:

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

Anti-hunger supporters are seeking two additional items: $1.9 million to restore the reimbursement rate for free and reduced price school meals from 11 to 15 cents/meal, and $1.15 million for the Senior and WIC Farmer’s Market Nutrition Programs. Neither were included in the Governor’s Budget.

INCOME SUPPORTS/WELFARE

SHB 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.

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Cttee on Early Learning, K-12, & Higher Education. Eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

SHB 1173/SSB 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. 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.

A substitute Senate bill was adopted in Executive Session, which differs from the original bill in several ways. Beginning dates have been changed; “domestic partner” has been removed from the definition of family member; an employee could not take family leave for his/her own medical issues; and "serious health condition" would include a period of incapacity or treatment of more then five days. Also, the benefit would be optional for employers with fewer than 50 employees. But covered workers would be entitled to five weeks of partial compensation to care for new babies, adopted or foster children, and seriously ill family members. They would be paid out of a family leave insurance trust fund financed by a premium of two cents/hour worked.

The House bill appears DEAD.

In Week Eleven, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the House Commerce & Labor Committee. Eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

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 Eleven, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Committee on Government Operations. Eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

The Senate bill appears DEAD.

SHB 1190/ SSB 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. The Senate bill was amended again on the floor; it no longer restricts access with a life-long ban for anyone with two drug-related felony convictions since 1996.

The House bill appears DEAD.

On Monday, 3/28 at 1:30 pm, the Senate bill will get an Executive Session in the House Cttee on Children & Family Services. House Hearing Room D, O’Brien Building. On TVW.

Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

SHB 1408/ SSB 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 Eleven, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Cttee on International Trade & Economic Development. Eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

The Senate bill appears DEAD.

HB 1570 – CREATING THE WASHINGTON VOLUNTARY ACCOUNTS PROGRAM

This bill appears DEAD.

HB 1550/ SSB 5759 – SUPPORTING STATE ACHIEVERS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Both the House and Senate bills appear DEAD.

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

Both the House and Senate bills appear DEAD.

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.

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

The Senate bill appears DEAD.

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

This bill did not make the cut-off; it appears DEAD.

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

This bill did not make the cut-off; it appears DEAD.

SHB 1251/ SSB 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. Senate-passed amendments clarify what must be disclosed to consumers, and increase penalties for any failures.

The bill would pre-empt a stiffer Seattle RAL ordinance, but offer new protection to low-income people outside of Seattle. Supporters believe the most significant part of the substitute bill is the addition of consumer protection act remedies – to allow the Attorney General to help enforce the law, and allow consumers to sue to enforce the law (with triple damages and attorney's fees).

The House bill remains in the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

In Week Eleven, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the House Cttee on Financial Institutions & Insurance. Eligible for Executive Session. Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

SHB 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. The Senate bill’s only amendment was a technical correction.

The House bill is now in the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection.

In Week Eleven, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing and was voted DO PASS in the House Committee on Financial Institutions & Insurance. It is now in the House Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

SB 5796 – REGULATING REFUND ANTICIPATION LOANS

This bill appears DEAD.

SSB 5850 – CLARIFYING DEFINITION OF “SICK LEAVE” FOR FAMILY LEAVE

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Commerce & Labor Committee. This bill is now eligible for Executive Session, and needs action by 4/1 to survive.

Budget Items:

Advocates for low-income adults who are temporarily unable to work due to mental or physical disability, are seeking to protect funding for the GAU (General Assistance – Unemployable) program in the budget. Eligible recipients get $339 a month to pay for shelter/housing, food,

and other basic needs. Without GAU, many will become homeless or more disabled.

The Governor’s Budget would cut $18 million from the program, by ending eligibility based on vocational factors (i.e., ability to get paid work).

Advocates for recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) note that $100 million is needed to fill an existing shortfall and provide for badly-needed child care subsidies.

The Governor’s Budget only adds $35 million (that includes a $20 million reduction in “Job Search” – which advocates agree should be shifted to other uses).

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

Work Session:

On Friday 4/1 at 8:00 am, in the House Juvenile Justice & Family Law Committee there will be a Work Session on the Juvenile Rehabilitation Administration Master Plan, in House Hearing Room E, in the O’Brien Building.

2SHB 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.

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing and an Executive Session in the Senate Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education. It was voted DO PASS. It is now likely to be referred to the Senate Ways & Means 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 Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Correc-tions Cttee. It is now eligible for Executive Session, and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SHB 1079/ SSB 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.

In Week Eleven, the House bill got a Public Hearing and Executive Session in the Senate Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education Committee. It was voted DO PASS; it is now in Senate Rules Committee, waiting to be scheduled for Floor Action.

In Week Eleven, the Senate bill got a Public Hearing in the House Higher Education Committee. It is now eligible for an Executive Session and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

HB 1082 – MENTAL HEALTH FOR MINORS

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

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing and 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 scheduled for Floor Action.

EHB 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 understanding and capabilities, differ from those of mature adults. It is right 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, but continue to apply all other adult sentencing provisions to juveniles tried as adults.

On Tuesday 3/29 at 10:00 am, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee, in Senate Hearing Room 1, in the Cherberg Building. It must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

ESHB 1252 – PROVIDING FOR FAMILY AND CONSUMER EDUCATION

This bill directs the Superintendent of Public Instruction (SPI) to develop a model family preservation education program curriculum. It also directs school districts to adopt a family preservation education program curriculum and to offer a one-credit family preservation course to high school students.

On Thursday 3/24 at 3:30 pm, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education Committee. Senate Hearing Room 1, Cherberg Bldg. It must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

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.

On Monday 3/28, at 10:00 am, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Senate Hearing Room 1, in the Cherberg Building. It must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

ESHB 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.

The Senate bill appears to be DEAD.

In Week Ten, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education Committee. This bill is now eligible for Executive Session and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

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. Upon request, retailers would be required to provide consumers with information on the rating system.

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Correc-tions Cttee. It is now eligible for an Executive Session and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SHB 1408/ SSB 5469 – CREATING AN INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT ACCOUNT (IDA) PROGAM

In Week Eleven, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate International Trade & Economic Development Committee. It is now eligible for an Executive Session and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

The Senate bill appears DEAD.

2SHB 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.

On Monday 3/28 at 10:00 am, the House bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee, in Senate Hearing Room 1 in the Cherberg Building. It must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

The Senate bill appears DEAD.

SHB 1531 - LIMITING THE WAIVER OF COUNSEL IN JUVENILE PROCEEDINGS

This bill appears to be DEAD.

SHB 1644 – PERTAINING TO WAIVER OF RIGHTS BY A JUVENILE

This bill appears to be DEAD.

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

This bill appears to be DEAD.

SHB 1661/SSB 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 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.

The Senate bill appears to be DEAD.

In Week Eleven, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Cttee. It is now eligible for Executive Session; it must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

2SSHB 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 directs the superintendent to establish school and school district goals addressing high school graduation rates and dropout reduction goals for students in grades 7-12. It includes requirements to show progress under the federal “No Child Left Behind Act of 2001.”

In Week Eleven, this bill got an Executive Session in the Senate Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education Cttee it was amended and voted DO PASS. It is now in Senate Rules Cttee.

HB 1727 – CHANGING DROPOUT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

This bill appears DEAD.

HB 2002 – AUTHORIZING LIMITED CONTINUING FOSTER CARE AND SUPPORT SERVICES UP TO AGE TWENTY-ONE

This bill appears DEAD.

SHB 2061 – REQUIRING DISPOSITION TO BE HELD IN JUVENILE COURT IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES WHEN A CASE IS AUTOMATICALLY TRANSFERRED TO ADULT COURT

This bill extends Juvenile Court Jurisdiction to include the cases of juveniles found not guilty in adult criminal court, or if convicted in adult court of a lesser crime, and it gives the Juvenile Court exclusive jurisdiction over the case.

In Week Eleven, the House bill got a Public Hearing the Senate Human Services & Cor-rections Cttee. It is now eligible for an Executive Session and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

HB 2064 – CLARIFYING PROVISIONS RELATING TO AUTOMATIC TRANSFER OF JURISDICTION FROM JUVENILE COURT

This bill is a technical clarification related to the date of the offence.

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Correc-tions Committee. It is now eligible for Executive Session and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SHB 2073 – REVISING JUVENILE SENTENCING

This bill declares that a juvenile is ineligible for a mental health disposition when adjudicated of several serious Class A felonies - including those that include use of deadly weapons.

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. It is now eligible for an Executive Session and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

HB 2090 – ESTABLISHING STERILIZATION AND AGE REQUIREMENTS FOR BODY PIERCING AND BODY

This bill appears to be DEAD.

HB 2139 – REQUIRING PARENTAL CONSENT FOR STUDENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN SEX EDUCATION.

This bill appears DEAD.

HB 2153 – PROVISIONS PERTAINING TO AT-RISK YOUTH PROCEEDINGS

This bill appears DEAD.

HB 2178 - REGARDING VIOLENT VIDEO AND COMPUTER GAMES.

This bill appears to be DEAD..

SB 5116 – SKATE PARKS

This bill appears DEAD.

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.

On Wednesday 3/30 at 1:30 pm, this bill will have an Executive Session in the House Committee on State Government & Accountability. House Hearing Room D, in the O’Brien Building. It must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SSB 5257 - RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH TEATMENT FOR MINORS

This bill appears to be DEAD.

SSB 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 Eleven, this bill got both a Public Hearing and an Executive Session in the House Juvenile Justice & Family Law Committee. It will likely go to House Rules Committee.

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

This bill appears to be DEAD.

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

This bill appears DEAD.

SSB 5502 - REVISING JUVENILE SENTENCING ALTERNATIVES

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 Eleven, this bill got both a Public Hearing and an Executive Session in the House Juvenile Justice & Family Law Committee. It will likely go to House Rules Committee.

SB 5557 – CONCERNING MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT FOR MINORS

This bill appears DEAD.

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 Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing in the House Children & Family Services Committee. It is now eligible for an Executive Session and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

SB 5738 – PROHIBITING BODY PIERCING ON PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF 18

This bill appears DEAD.

SB 5848 – PROVISIONS RELATING TO MISSING AND RUNAWAY CHILDREN

This bill appears to be DEAD.

SB 5913 – REGULATING TATTOOING AND BODY PIERCING

This bill appears to be DEAD.

SSB 5995 – RECOGNIZING A PARENT’S PREFERENCE IN THE PLACEMENT OF A CHILD IN SHELTER CARE

This bill appears to be DEAD.

SB 6024 - PROVIDING PROTECTIONS FOR JUVENILES IN THE CUSTODY OF LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS

This bill appears to be DEAD.

Budget Issues:

The Governor’s Budget eliminates funding for the Secure Crisis Residential Centers (SCRCs).

MENTAL HEALTH

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

Both the House and Senate bills appear DEAD.

SHB 1058 – MENTAL HEALTH FOR MINORS

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Correc-tions Cttee. It is now eligible for Executive Session, and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

HB 1082 – MENTAL HEALTH FOR MINORS

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

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Public Hearing and an Executive Session in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. It was voted DO PASS, and is now in the Senate Rules Committee, to be scheduled for Floor Action.

HB 1154/ SB 5450 – MENTAL HEALTH PARITY

This bill r equires 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 phases in 1/1/06 – 7/1/10.

This bill has been signed into law.

SHB 1290 – MODIFYING COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES PROVISIONS.

This bill concerns funding for the Regional Support Networks.

On Tuesday, 3/29 at 10:00 am, this bill will get a Public Hearing in the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee. Senate Hearing Room 1, Cherberg Building. Also on TVW. Needs executive action by 4/1 to survive.

2SSB 5763 – ENACTING THE OMNIBUS TREATMENT OF MENTAL AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE DISORDERS ACT OF 2005

This bill has 913 (yes, 913!) provisions which 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). The bill is organized in nine parts covering six areas. The Senate Bill Report (available at the www.leg.wa.gov website, by typing in the bill number and then clicking on Senate Bill Report) provides a very useful summary. This bill has been much amended. Despite including a potential revenue source, it also has a $60 million Fiscal Note – cost - which may be holding it up.

In Week Eleven, this bill got a Joint Public Hearing before both the House Health Care and the House Children & Family Services Committees. Eligible for Executive Session.

Needs action by 4/1 to survive.

Budget Item:

Mental health advocates sought $82 million to replace lost federal mental healthfunding. Without these funds they believe there will be an increase in people living on the streets, and filling jails, emergency rooms and psychiatric hospitals. Local governments cannot operate housing and treatment facilities, or provide mental health crisis services without funding.

The Governor’s Budget would provide $80 million for this purpose.

REVENUES/TAX POLICY

NOTE: the cut-off date for bills in the Fiscal Committees (Appropriations, Ways & Means, and Finance) is Monday, April 4, not 4/1.

HB 1069 – REQUIRING PERFORMANCE AUDITS FOR TAX PREFERENCES

This bill recognizes that tax preferences are enacted to meet objectives in the public interes

Welcome to Policy Watch 2005

WEEK 11

PART III - SOME ISSUES

AGING/LONG-TERM CARE

BUDGET

CHILDREN

SSB 5600 – ENCOURAGING EMPLOYERS TO BE INFANT FRIENDLY

CHILD WELFARE

SHB 1482 – REVISING PROVISIONS ON CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT

DISABILITIES

HEALTH CARE

HOUSING/HOMELESSNESS

HUNGER AND NUTRITION

INCOME SUPPORTS/WELFARE

JUVENILES/YOUTH

Work Session:

See also INCOME SUPPORTS: individuals eligible for IDA’s include Foster Youth.

In Week Eleven, the House bill got a Public Hearing in the Senate International Trade & Economic Development Committee. It is now eligible for an Executive Session and must be acted on by 4/1 to survive.

2SHB 1483 /SB 5567 – CREATING AN “INVESTING IN YOUTH” PROGRAM

2SSHB 1708 – REGARDING DROPOUT PREVENTION

SB 5116 – SKATE PARKS

SSB 5502 - REVISING JUVENILE SENTENCING ALTERNATIVES

MENTAL HEALTH

SHB 1058 – MENTAL HEALTH FOR MINORS

HB 1082 – MENTAL HEALTH FOR MINORS

REVENUES/TAX POLICY