The bill aims to enhance the care and support for infants born exposed to harmful substances by establishing pediatric transitional care facilities in Washington State. It recognizes the unique medical and nonmedical needs of these infants, particularly those suffering from neonatal abstinence syndrome, and emphasizes the importance of promoting bonding and attachment between substance-exposed infants and their parents. The legislation proposes a bundled funding model to support these facilities, which will provide both medical and nonmedical services, including caregiver education, family support, and discharge planning. The bill also mandates the development of a state plan amendment to allow facility-based payments to these centers, with a focus on reducing the systemic costs associated with prolonged hospital stays.

Key amendments to existing laws include the redefinition of pediatric transitional care services to encompass a broader range of support for substance-exposed infants and their families. The bill specifies that these facilities must provide comprehensive care, including medication management, specialized feeding, and wraparound services for parents. Additionally, it outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families in case management and collaboration with the facilities to ensure effective service delivery. The legislation also introduces new requirements for staffing, training, and supportive family rules to enhance the overall care environment for both infants and their caregivers.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 71.12.455, 71.12.680, 71.12.684, 71.12.686