April 16, 2007

OLYMPIA… In a 46-0 vote Monday, the state Senate agreed to concur with changes made by the House of Representatives to Senate Bill 5321, and the bill will now go to the governor’s desk to be signed into law.   

The bill, sponsored by Sen. Mike Carrell, R-Lakewood, would protect families accused of child abuse by requiring the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to make reasonable efforts to investigate the validity of the claim and resolve the case. 

“I’m pleased to see that foster children and foster families in our state will be getting some relief from unfounded allegations of child abuse and neglect,” Carrell said.  “Foster families in Washington will soon be given the same fair judgment our judicial system uses by determining either guilt or innocence.” 

Earlier this month, the House voted unanimously in favor of passing Carrell’s child welfare bill.  SB 5321 would direct DSHS to classify allegations in one of two categories: founded (meaning, based on available evidence, it is likely abuse or neglect did occur) and unfounded (meaning, based on evidence, it most likely DID NOT occur). 

Currently, DSHS classifies claims as founded, unfounded and inconclusive, leaving potential foster families in limbo with a smudge on their record, regardless of proven guilt or innocence.  Carrell’s bill also would direct DSHS to wipe any record of screened-out allegations after three years, and unfounded allegations after six years.

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Sen. Mike Carrell represents the 28^th Legislative District, which includes Lakewood, Steilacoom, University Place, DuPont, Fircrest, and parts of Tacoma, Fort Lewis, and McChord Air Force Base.

For more information contact Erich R. Ebel
at (360) 786-7395