Key Bill Affecting Parental Rights Passes

Senate Bill 5599 would clarify in statute that licensed shelters or homeless youth programs in the state would not be required to report runaway youth if a compelling reason exists, or if those youth are seeking gender-affirming or reproductive care.

Additionally, host homes would not have to have parental permission if a runaway youth is seeking gender-affirming or reproductive care. The bill passed the House Wednesday by a 57-39 vote, and if signed by the governor, the bill would go into effect 90 days after the session adjourns. Its passage angered opponents, who see it as an affront to parents’ rights. Rep. Jim Walsh, R-Aberdeen, issued the following statement:

“Since the vote on SB 5599, I’ve been contacted by thousands of concerned Washingtonians about this attack on parents’ rights and families,” Walsh said. “Sponsors and supporters of this bill have overstepped the constitution and case law in promoting this policy, which would allow state bureaucrats to hide minor children from custodial parents and legal guardians. This bill is wrong — legally, ethically and morally. … “This is not the first policy approved this session that turns the power and machinery of state government against families. Lawmakers promoting these changes put wedges between children and their parents, grandparents and the people who love them.” (Excerpt from: The Olympian.)