This bill authorizes the Washington State Institute for Public Policy to evaluate the outcomes related to assessment practices used by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). The legislature has noted a decline in the statewide dependency filing rate since 2016, alongside an increase in critical incidents involving children. To address these concerns, the bill mandates an assessment of the screening tools and risk assessment processes employed by DCYF, particularly focusing on their impact on dependency initiation, out-of-home placements, and the associated risks of child fatalities and near fatalities, especially in families with histories of substance abuse.

The bill establishes a new section in chapter 13.34 RCW, outlining the responsibilities of the Washington State Institute for Public Policy. It requires the institute to assess the effectiveness of DCYF's screening and risk assessment tools and report preliminary findings by December 1, 2026, with a comprehensive report due by September 1, 2027. Additionally, the DCYF and the Washington State Family and Children's Ombuds are required to cooperate with the institute to ensure access to necessary data and resources for the evaluation.