State team would investigate safety reports involving children in custody

The Children, Youth and Families Department would use a dedicated team to investigate referred reports involving children's safety. The team would cover programs and facilities where the department places children in its custody, including temporary placements, regardless of licensing, funding, or department ties. Reports of these incidents could not use the department's alternative response process instead of investigation. The team would collaborate with local police as needed and coordinate with tribal authorities for investigations in Indian country. The coordinator would assign reports immediately. Units would start within 24 hours of assignment and finish within 60 days unless the coordinator gives the Office of Child Advocate written reasons for an extension.

Placement facilities and their employees would cooperate with investigators and could not obstruct investigations or retaliate against people who help. These duties would cover programs and facilities where the department places children in its custody and their employees. Investigators would receive immediate access to children, staff, buildings, and relevant records only to the extent state and federal law allow. The department could restrict further placements during an investigation unless it determines that continued placements pose no risk to child safety. Investigators would take or recommend immediate protective action when a child faces immediate danger. At the end of an investigation, investigators would require fixes or monitoring when appropriate to ensure compliance with licensing or contract rules.

Investigators would document findings, report them to the Office of Child Advocate, and notify affected people. Notices would go to the child and their parent, guardian, or custodian; facility leaders; accused people named in the report; and police if criminal activity is suspected. A finding that an allegation is supported would require evidence showing it is more likely true than not. Accused people would receive written allegations and an explanation of the process at first contact. Anyone newly accused during the investigation would have an opportunity to respond. Notices would give findings without investigation materials. Accused people named in the report would receive notice of their right to request an agency review. After investigation, supported findings would also go to the heads of the Children, Youth and Families Department and Health Care Authority and enter the abuse and neglect data system.

The proposal would set aside $250,000 from the state's general fund for the Children, Youth and Families Department to carry out its requirements. The money would support the department's work under this proposal. Money left unspent at the end of fiscal year 2027 would return to the state's general fund. The money would be available for spending in fiscal year 2027. The proposed deadline for adopting rules is September 30, 2026.