The proposed bill aims to codify the rights of children and youth in foster care in Washington State, establishing a new section in chapter 74.13 RCW. It emphasizes the importance of a statutory declaration of rights to enhance the health, well-being, and safety of these young individuals. The bill outlines a comprehensive list of rights for youth in out-of-home care, including the right to be treated equally, priority placement with relatives, access to education, legal representation, and the ability to consent to their adoption or guardianship if they are over 14. Additionally, it ensures that youth have access to their personal belongings, confidentiality regarding their case files, and necessary documentation when transitioning out of foster care.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the Department of Children, Youth, and Families to create and distribute a pamphlet by September 1, 2025, detailing the rights of youth in foster care and the department's responsibilities. This pamphlet must be concise, provide references to available resources, and include emergency contact information for caseworkers. It is required to be made available to all foster youth during key transitions, such as entering care or moving placements, and will also be published on the department's website to ensure accessibility.