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Bill to increase inspections and youth bill of rights for facilities advances with DO PASS
Summary
H 723, to strengthen quality of care for youth in facilities through new sections, a youth bill of rights and annual unannounced inspections including resident and staff interviews, passed the committee on a DO PASS voice vote after testimony from former residents.
Rep. Marco Erickson presented H 723, a proposal to improve quality of care for youth in residential facilities by adding four sections that include a youth bill of rights and annual unannounced inspections with interviews of residents and staff. Erickson said the changes provide transparency for youth and parents; he noted that including an ombudsman would add cost and could be considered later.
Brittany Shipley testified in support, saying residents require extensive support and high levels of care and that this legislation would safeguard families and youth. Jessica Hayes, testifying in support, recounted personal experiences of alleged negative and abusive treatment, limited academic classes and restricted contact with the outside world. "No child should need treatment because of the treatment they received," the record reports.
Rep. Redman moved to send H 723 to the floor with a DO PASS recommendation; the motion carried by voice vote. Rep. Erickson will sponsor the bill on the floor.
