The bill seeks to strengthen court oversight during child welfare shelter care hearings for children under five years old, addressing a rise in critical incidents of child maltreatment. It introduces a new section that empowers courts to impose safety conditions when children are placed with parents, guardians, or legal custodians, prioritizing the child's health, welfare, and safety. Key amendments include requirements for courts to notify parents of their rights, ensure representation for indigent parents, and allow waivers of shelter care hearings under certain conditions. Additionally, if a child is released to a parent or guardian, the court may impose minimal safety conditions that must be reviewed every 30 days, while also emphasizing culturally appropriate services and compliance with the federal Indian Child Welfare Act.

The bill also revises existing laws regarding foster care placements, mandating that courts order assessments of relatives or suitable individuals wishing to become licensed foster parents within 10 days of placement. If the assessment is positive, these individuals will receive foster care maintenance payments from the date of approval. The legislation outlines procedures for shelter care orders, including case conferences and visitation conditions, promoting early and frequent visitation to facilitate family reunification. It clarifies the fact-finding hearing process, ensuring parents' rights are protected, and specifies that participation in prevention services or safety planning does not imply an admission of abuse or neglect.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 13.34.065, 13.34.110
Substitute bill: 13.34.065, 13.34.110