Rep. McClintock’s legislation that would improve the communication process with the DCYF, unanimously passes committee
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Rep. McClintock’s legislation that would improve the communication process with the DCYF, unanimously passes committee
A bill from Rep. Stephanie McClintock that would facilitate the communications process between the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) and caregivers has been approved.
The Human Services, Youth, and Early Learning Committee unanimously passed House Bill 1970 on Friday. The legislation would require the DCYF to establish a caregiver communication specialist position within its agency. The purpose of the newly created position would be to improve communication between the DCYF and those caring for children receiving child welfare services.
“We should do whatever we can to help the good people who are taking care of children receiving state welfare services,” said McClintock, R-Vancouver. “Being able to communicate with the DCYF should not be a struggle. The reality is both parties are trying to do what’s best for these kids. So, by improving the communication between them, ultimately, it’s going to help these children. And that’s what this is really about.”
The legislation would require the DCYF to submit a report describing how to implement an automated notification system that would provide notification – either by phone or electronically – to caregivers of children receiving child welfare services and providing recommendations regarding improving communications between the DCYF and caregivers.
The caregiver communication specialist position would be responsible for:
- Assisting caseworkers in promptly communicating with caregivers of children receiving child welfare services.
- Developing policies for sharing appropriate and timely information with such caregivers.
- Supporting coordination between existing caregiver engagement teams, constituent relations, communications specialists, and child welfare field offices.
“I know this is a real issue because I’ve witnessed it firsthand and have had many discussions with people in my district who deal with communication problems with the DCYF,” added McClintock. “That’s why this legislation makes sense. Having a person dedicated to resolving these issues and improving the DCYF communication process would make a big difference for everyone involved.”
The bill now waits for a vote on the House floor.
