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Dear Child Placing Agency Partners,
As part of an effort to support kinship caregivers in obtaining foster care licensure for kin children placed in their homes, the Washington State Legislature passed Senate Bill (SSB) 5151. The bill led to the amendment of RCW 74.15.125 and the creation of WAC 110-148-1326.
On Aug. 25, 2022, this WAC went into effect, and DCYF's Licensing Division began issuing Child- Specific (kinship) licenses to relatives or suitable persons. This license allows caregivers to provide foster care services to a specified child and that child's siblings or relatives in DCYF's care and authority.
Please note:
- Each CPA will make their own determination whether to provide a Kinship License or not.
- Regional Licensing can only provide information on Kinship License but cannot advise a CPA one way or another.
Effective July 23, 2023, Child-Specific (Kinship) licenses have been extended to children in tribal custody.
As part of the child-specific license process, additional exceptions to Foster Family Home WACs (110-148) were approved for kinship caregivers to remove barriers that may prevent or discourage caregivers from getting licensed. DCYF will continue to assess and find ways to address ongoing barriers.
Resources
If you have any questions, contact your Regional Licensor or any LD Regional Licensing staff.
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