The bill seeks to enhance support for unaccompanied homeless youth in Washington State by amending various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). It redefines key terms, replacing "street youth" with "unaccompanied homeless youth," and establishes HOPE centers to provide temporary residential placement and services. The bill outlines the responsibilities of crisis residential centers and HOPE centers, including case management requirements aimed at facilitating the return of youth to a legally authorized residence. Additionally, it introduces new notification requirements for unauthorized leaves and mandates data collection to measure service outcomes, ultimately aiming to improve resources and support for homeless youth.

Further provisions in the bill include the establishment of a grant program to connect homeless students and their families with stable housing, emphasizing collaboration between housing and education partners. It also mandates the development of community support teams to assist youth in crisis, focusing on family reunification and long-term housing stability. The bill amends laws related to the independent youth housing program, requiring collaboration between the Department of Children, Youth, and Families and the Department of Social Services, and includes annual data reporting on youth aging out of the dependency system. Additionally, it clarifies definitions and operational guidelines for various agencies, emphasizing the importance of case management and support services to promote youth independence and self-sufficiency. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 43.185C.280, 43.185C.285, 43.185C.315, 43.185C.320, 43.185C.340, 43.330.702, 43.330.710, 43.63A.305, 43.330.726