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Bill

HB 1405

Preserving public benefit payments to people in the care of the department of children, youth, and families.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Emily Alvarado and 20 co-sponsors

Bill preserves public benefit payments for youth in state foster care rather than allowing DCYF to claim or redirect these funds, enabling financial independence.

Referred to Human Services, Youth, & Early Learning.
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Bill Summary · HB 1405

Legislative bill overview

HB 1405 addresses how public benefit payments (such as Social Security, survivor benefits, or other federal assistance) are handled for youth and young adults in the custody of Washington's Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). The bill aims to preserve these benefits for individuals rather than allowing them to be redirected or used by the state during their time in care.

Why is this important

Youth in state custody often receive public benefits they're entitled to, but current practice may allow the state to claim or redirect these funds. Preserving access to these benefits gives vulnerable young people financial resources for basic needs, transition planning, and independence when they age out of foster care—a critical period when many face housing instability and poverty. This directly impacts economic security during the vulnerable transition to adulthood.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: Whether the state should absorb costs of care if youth retain their own benefit income, or if there's a mechanism for cost-sharing
  • Scope of benefits: Clarity on which public benefits are protected (SSI, SSDI, survivor benefits, etc.) and whether all apply equally
  • Implementation complexity: How DCYF monitors, manages, and accounts for youth-controlled funds while maintaining fiduciary responsibility for minors in state care

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

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