This bill amends existing laws regarding the provision of employment and community inclusion services for clients of the home and community living administration in Washington State. A new section is added to chapter 71A.12 RCW, establishing that clients may begin receiving employment services at age 20. The bill specifies that the number of employment service hours provided will be based on the assistance needed to achieve employment outcomes, rather than the time spent in employment-related activities. Additionally, it mandates the development of rules by the department to implement these changes.

The bill also amends RCW 71A.12.290, changing the age for clients to transition from employment services to community inclusion programs from 21 to 20 years old. It replaces the term "access" with "inclusion" in relation to community programs, emphasizing the importance of integrating clients into their communities and supporting independent living. The department is tasked with informing clients and their representatives about available service options and developing rules to allow exceptions to the nine-month participation requirement before transitioning to community inclusion services. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 71A.12.290
Substitute bill: 71A.12.290