Debate flares over WA child welfare law after rise in deaths and injuries

Lawmakers in Washington are divided on whether to dial back a state law critics blame for a sudden spike in deaths and serious injuries among children enmeshed in the state’s child welfare system.

Through June, at least 92 of these children had died or nearly died, the state’s Office of the Family and Children’s Ombuds reported last month. The figures only capture cases the state Department of Children, Youth and Families is aware of, including those not tied to child abuse or neglect.

The initial sponsor of the 2021 law, known as the Keeping Families Together Act, stands by her measure, saying it’s not to blame for the jump.

“We are all in a state of crisis trying to figure it out,” said Rep. Lillian Ortiz-Self, D-Mukilteo. “The reality is that this is a community problem that we all now have to face.”

https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2025/08/25/debate-flares-over-wa-child-welfare-law-after-rise-in-deaths-and-injuries/