The bill amends RCW 74.15.311 to enhance the licensing requirements and operational flexibility for resource and assessment centers in Washington State. It establishes that these centers must demonstrate a local community need and be primarily staffed by trained volunteers. The previous requirement that centers not be financially dependent on state reimbursement has been removed. Additionally, the bill allows the Department to adopt rules that provide flexibility in staffing, hours of operation, and the ability to operate in residential areas.

Furthermore, the bill expands the age range of children that resource and assessment centers can care for, allowing them to provide services for children up to 17 years old at the center's discretion. It also permits these centers to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and to care for children for up to three business days, or seven with department approval. The centers are now explicitly authorized to provide emergency initial care for children entering foster care and to address placement disruptions for children who have not been removed from their foster homes due to behavioral or safety concerns.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 74.15.311
Engrossed Bill: 74.15.311