Policy Wins
Our policy team was formed in 2021 to advance TeamChild’s policy agenda. And, our systemic advocacy work far predates this addition of staff. Some of our key systemic advocacy reforms over the years include the following:
90% diversion
Creating court systems that are responsive to the needs of young people (colloquies project)
Ending indefinite expulsion
Ending use of detention for non-criminal offenses
Building developmentally appropriate responses to juvenile sexual offenses
Nothing About Us Without Us
House Bill 1541 (2024)
The Nothing About Us Without Us Bill requires the State of Washington to have clear representation by people who have disabilities in any policy work that impacts those with disabilities. Task forces, work groups, and advisory committees tackling issues affecting underrepresented populations must include at least three individuals with direct lived experience on that issue. The bill promotes engagement with a wider range of individuals within these communities, ensuring diverse voices are heard. TeamChild’s Youth Action Board (YAB) found this bill very compelling, and we are glad they were able to help advocate for this bill.
Developmentally Appropriate Response to Youth SA Offenses
HB 1394 (2023)
This bill is a major milestone in enacting developmentally appropriate responses to youth sexual offending behavior. The changes this bill supports are guided by comprehensive research about what young people need in order to meaningfully rehabilitate from offending behavior and prevent future occurrences. This change ends registration for the majority of youth expanding treatment – creating circumstances that most effectively promote genuine rehabilitation, as treatment is key to low recidivism rates.
Shifting the Burden of Proof
Senate Bill 5883 (2024)
When families disagree with their school about what kind of support their students need, the matter is decided by an administrative hearing which can resemble a formal legal hearing. In past events, parents and family members had the burden of proving to the judge (presenting evidence and calling witnesses) that the school’s services were not appropriate. We successfully advocated for a law that shifts the burden of proof in these hearings to the school – removing burden from students and families who very often do not have resources to lead administrative hearings.
Supports for Youth Experiencing Homelessness
House Bill 1406 (2023)
Previously, youth had to receive consent from parents/caregivers to stay in youth shelters, often pushing them back into abusive/neglectful homes or other dangerous situations. This bill allows youth to stay in licensed overnight shelters for up to 90 days (about 3 months) if the shelter is unable to contact parents/guardians, or if the parents/guardians do not request youth for the youth to return home.
Legal Financial Obligations
House Bill 1169 (2023)
Legal financial obligations (LFOs) were greatly reduced through the passage of this legislation. Fees associated with juvenile court involvement create significant difficulty for young people who may already be living in poverty & prevent youth from vacating their records until LFOs are paid. The elimination of LFOs for juveniles is a significant achievement in advancing social justice for youth.