The House Early Learning & Human Services Committee convened at 8:00 AM on March 14, 2025, to discuss critical legislative matters, including a significant bill aimed at enhancing child protection measures.

The meeting began with a presentation from Senator Noelle Frame, who introduced a bill identical to House Bill 1211, previously reported out of the committee. Senator Frame emphasized that the legislation mandates clergy from all faiths to report any suspected child abuse or neglect, including sexual abuse, regardless of how the information is obtained. She clarified that the bill focuses solely on the aspect of mandated reporting and does not alter existing laws regarding the prosecution of offenders or protected communications.

Senator Frame highlighted the bipartisan support the bill received two years ago, when it passed the House with a vote of 75 to 20. She shared her personal connection to the issue, recounting her own experience with abuse and the importance of mandated reporting in her case. The senator stressed that the bill is rooted in the principle of protecting children and maintaining a separation between church and state, asserting that the state should not be complicit in any cover-up of abuse by religious organizations.

The senator pointed out that Washington is one of only five states without a mandated reporter law for clergy, underscoring the urgency of the bill. She noted that the legislation was inspired by investigative reports revealing abuse cover-ups within certain religious communities, particularly the Jehovah's Witnesses. Senator Frame concluded her remarks by urging the committee to support the bill, emphasizing its critical role in safeguarding children.

Following the discussion on the bill, the committee transitioned to a work session led by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families. Dr. Sarah Ville and Dr. Vicki Ybarra provided insights into the issue of disproportionality in child welfare, setting the stage for further discussions on improving child welfare services in the state.

The meeting underscored the committee's commitment to addressing child protection and welfare issues, with a focus on legislative action and collaboration with state agencies. The next steps will involve further deliberation on the proposed bill and continued discussions on child welfare initiatives.