This bill seeks to update terminology and procedures within the Revised Code of Washington to align with recent changes in the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). It introduces a kinship care legal aid coordinator role at the Office of Civil Legal Aid, responsible for consulting with various entities to develop legal aid initiatives for kinship caregivers and producing a biennial report on related activities. The bill also transfers certain public defense responsibilities to the Office of Public Defense, allowing access to necessary records without consent, and modifies competency evaluation provisions to connect individuals with developmental disabilities to community-based services. Additionally, it establishes new procedures for DSHS regarding eligibility determinations for support services and emphasizes the importance of timely transitions from jail to services.

Moreover, the bill amends laws related to child welfare, requiring permanency plans for children removed from home within 60 days and ensuring that sibling relationships are maintained. It establishes a framework for the governor to report on a rapid care team for children in crisis and expands the dementia action collaborative's responsibilities. The bill also creates an advisory committee on permanent supportive housing, modifies the role of the Office of the Developmental Disabilities Ombuds, and introduces a school-to-work program for students with disabilities. It enhances the rights of residents in long-term care facilities, ensuring protection against retaliation for voicing grievances, and establishes penalties for violations. Overall, the bill aims to improve support and services for vulnerable populations, streamline legal processes, and enhance accountability within the DSHS framework.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 2.53.055, 2.70.901, 10.77.400, 10.77.675, 13.34.136, 43.06.535, 43.20A.885, 43.41.275, 43.330.425, 43.382.005, 43.382.010, 70.128.040, 70.128.300, 71.09.099, 71A.10.020, 71A.10.100, 71A.16.020, 71A.16.050, 71A.18.060, 71A.26.010, 71A.26.030, 71A.28.030, 74.13.341, 74.04.060, 74.09.520, 74.09.4951, 74.29.090, 74.39A.009, 74.39A.060