This bill mandates the closure of Yakima Valley School and Rainier School by June 30, 2027, and outlines the process for relocating current residents to alternative living arrangements. It emphasizes the importance of providing a balanced range of health, social, and supportive services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, promoting individual dignity and autonomy. The Department of Social and Health Services is tasked with ensuring that no new admissions occur at these facilities, except for short-term respite or crisis stabilization services. The bill also includes provisions for offering residents meaningful choices for alternative placements and developing individualized transition plans in collaboration with residents and their families.

Additionally, the bill amends several existing laws to reflect these changes, including the repeal of RCW 71A.20.180, which previously outlined the closure of Yakima Valley School. It also updates the definitions and management responsibilities related to residential habilitation centers, removing references to Rainier School and Yakima Valley School from the list of permanently established centers. The bill includes provisions for the continued operation of crisis stabilization and respite service beds at Yakima Valley School after its closure, contingent on the needs of the community and available funding. The act is set to take effect immediately, with specific sections becoming effective on June 30, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 71A.20.020, 28A.190.005, 72.01.050, 72.05.010
Substitute Bill: 71A.20.020, 28A.190.005, 72.01.050, 72.05.010
Second Substitute: 71A.20.020, 28A.190.005, 72.01.050, 72.05.010