The bill amends RCW 13.34.030 to include a new definition for "imminent physical harm" in the context of child welfare. This definition specifies that imminent physical harm refers to a substantial risk of serious harm to a child's safety or well-being, which can arise from various conditions such as physical abuse, emotional harm or neglect, exposure to unsafe environments, and caregiver impairment due to substance use. The bill outlines specific examples of situations that could lead to this risk, including failure to provide necessary supervision or medical care, and the presence of illicit substances in the child's environment.

In addition to the new definition, the bill reenacts and amends existing definitions related to child welfare, ensuring clarity and consistency in the language used throughout the chapter. The inclusion of the definition for imminent physical harm aims to enhance the understanding and identification of situations that may endanger a child's welfare, thereby improving the response and intervention strategies of child welfare services.