In 2021, the Washington State Legislature passed House Bill 1227 — the Keeping Families Together Act. The intent of the act was to safely reduce the number of children placed into foster care, reduce racial disproportionality in the child welfare system, and support relatives to take care of children when they must be placed out of home in order to protect their safety.
Since taking effect in July 2023, DCYF has been closely monitoring the implementation of HB 1227. Current data shows an overall 9.6% decrease in children entering foster care this July – November compared to the same time frame in 2022. Data and analysis of the new law's impact on child safety do not support claims that the bill has led to the 44% increase in child fatalities and near fatalities.
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