The Oakley Carlson Act is designed to strengthen the safety and welfare of children who have been removed from their parents due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. The bill emphasizes the necessity for clear standards regarding the reunification of children with their birth parents, particularly in light of the tragic case of Oakley Carlson. Key provisions include a requirement that a child cannot be returned home unless the court determines that the reasons for removal no longer exist, and that parents must demonstrate at least six months of sobriety if substance use disorder was a factor in the child's removal. Additionally, the bill mandates comprehensive background checks on all adults in the home and the identification of potential caregivers to ensure thorough safety assessments prior to reunification.

The legislation introduces significant amendments to existing child welfare laws, including stipulating that the six-month sobriety requirement does not count towards the time a child spends in out-of-home care when considering termination of parental rights. It also extends the casework supervision period from six months to five years for cases involving substance use disorders or crimes against children, ensuring continued support and monitoring. Furthermore, after a dependency case is dismissed, the bill requires ongoing engagement with mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect for one year, including weekly health and safety reports on the child, and the development of a standard reporting form to facilitate communication. These measures aim to enhance child protection and prioritize their best interests throughout the legal process.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 13.34.145