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Bill

SB 6267

Authorizing payment for parental caregivers of minor children with developmental disabilities.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by John Braun and 14 co-sponsors

SB 6267 creates state compensation for parents caring for children with developmental disabilities, aiming to support families and potentially reduce costs of institutional care.

Public hearing in the Senate Committee on Human Services at 10:30 AM.
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Bill Summary · SB 6267

Legislative bill overview

SB 6267 would establish a payment program for parents or guardians who provide care to minor children with developmental disabilities in Washington State. The bill creates a mechanism to compensate family caregivers for the labor-intensive work of caring for children with significant support needs, rather than requiring families to rely solely on institutional or professional care services.

Why is this important

Families caring for children with developmental disabilities face substantial financial and time burdens, often requiring one parent to leave the workforce. Compensating parental caregivers could reduce family financial strain, keep children in family settings rather than institutions, and potentially save the state money compared to residential or facility-based care. This addresses a gap where many states recognize family caregiving as valuable work deserving compensation.

Potential points of contention

  • Program costs and funding: How much will the state budget allocate, and how will this be funded without reducing other disability services or state programs?
  • Eligibility and income limits: What disability severity thresholds qualify, and will income/asset limits exclude working families who need support most?
  • Payment rates and equity: How will compensation rates be determined, and could lower payments disadvantage families with fewer resources to supplement income?
  • Implementation details: Will this replace existing services/subsidies, and how will it coordinate with federal Medicaid programs that already fund some caregiving support?

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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