The bill amends RCW 70.05.170 to modernize the child fatality review process in Washington State, reflecting a shift in terminology from "child mortality" to "child fatality." It raises the age limit for reviews from under eighteen to under nineteen years of age, emphasizing the legislature's commitment to identifying and addressing preventable causes of child fatalities. The bill also aims to enhance legal protections for families, local health department officials, and healthcare professionals involved in these reviews, ensuring that sensitive information remains confidential while allowing for the retention of identifiable data for trend analysis and quality improvement.

Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for local health departments to conduct child fatality reviews, including the collection of medical records and other relevant data from various entities. It establishes that information gathered during these reviews is not subject to public disclosure or legal proceedings, thereby encouraging open and honest participation in the review process. The legislation also mandates that the Department of Health assist local health departments in collecting and analyzing review reports, while allowing for the publication of statistical data that does not identify individual cases. Overall, the bill seeks to improve child safety and health outcomes through a more effective and supportive review process.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70.05.170
Substitute Bill: 70.05.170
Bill as Passed Legislature: 70.05.170
Session Law: 70.05.170