This bill introduces a new section to chapter 74.13 RCW, focusing on child welfare cases involving children under the age of four, particularly in communities with high rates of child fatalities and near fatalities linked to parental use of high-potency synthetic opioids. By January 1, 2027, the Department of Children, Youth, and Families is required to develop a referral pathway to community services for affected families, allowing services to commence during investigations and remain available for six months regardless of the case status. The bill emphasizes prioritizing resources for these vulnerable children while also permitting referrals for older children or cases without substance use as a risk factor. The community-based referral process must include various supportive services, such as family resource centers and public health nurses.

Additionally, the bill mandates the department to implement a process to enhance connections between families and noncontracted community-based services by the same deadline. This process aims to facilitate transitions to community providers, ensuring child safety and increasing family participation in services. The department is also tasked with consulting community service providers and tribes in developing this referral process. Parents or guardians will be informed that participation in these services is voluntary, and a report detailing the developed processes and their impacts must be submitted to the legislature by November 1, 2027. The bill clarifies that it does not override existing provisions of the Washington state Indian child welfare act or the federal Indian child welfare act.