The bill aims to close the Yakima Valley School and Rainier School by June 30, 2027, and relocate current residents to alternative living arrangements. It emphasizes the need for 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 schools, except for short-term respite or crisis stabilization services. The bill outlines a comprehensive transition plan that prioritizes client choice, individual preferences, and 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 addressed the closure of Yakima Valley School. It also updates the definitions and management responsibilities related to residential habilitation centers, removing references to the Yakima Valley School and Rainier School from the list of permanently established centers. The bill includes provisions for the operation of crisis stabilization beds at the Yakima Valley School post-closure and mandates the development of individualized transition plans for affected residents. 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