SPOKANE COUNTY, Wash. — The Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) will be able to legally investigate alleged child abuse or neglect at residential facilities starting in 2024.
According to DCYF, a new state bill gives the department legal authority to investigate allegations of child abuse or neglect at behavioral health facilities, host homes and residential private schools. The bill also states patients, students and families with loved ones at these residential facilities can report suspected abuse to DCYF.
In the past, DCYF said allegations of abuse or neglect at residential facilities would be investigated by law enforcement. However, Washington State Bill 5515 gives DCYF the power to investigate these types of allegations.
"The safety of children and youth is our agency’s number one priority and this change gives us another avenue to reach families who need support," said Ruben Reeves, the assistant secretary of licensing for DCYF.
DCYF said it will share information about these investigations with the state Department of Health
The bill also requires residential schools to be licensed by DCYF starting July 1, 2025, "so the findings of these CPS investigations could potentially impact their licensing standing."
To learn more about reporting suspected child abuse or neglect, click here. You can also report by calling 1 (866) 363-4276.
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