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Sirita’s Law and Raphael
Gomez Act signed into law today
At-risk children will be
safer, and the state Department of Social and Health Services will be
held more accountable as a result of two bills sponsored by
Rep. Bill Hinkle
which were signed by the governor today. Hinkle, R-Cle Elum, said
House Bills 1333 and
1334 are measures which were inspired by the tragic stories of
Sirita Sotelo and Raphael Gomez – two young children murdered in abusive
homes.
The new laws will bring more accountability to the Department of Social
and Health Services (DSHS), allow its employees to work more closely
with better trained law enforcement, and help ensure abused and
neglected children are placed in safe homes.
“Sadly, there are situations in which children must be removed from
their homes and placed in foster care. It is important this transition
is justified and secure for children. And if children are returned to
their parents, we must make sure they are returning to a safe
environment,” said Hinkle.
“House Bills 1333 and 1334 will hold DSHS more accountable by requiring
background checks of caregivers, and involving law enforcement in more
comprehensive ways.”
Sirita Sotelo was a young girl placed in foster care. She was
transitioned to live with her father and stepmother. Sirita died of
blunt force trauma to her head and midsection while in their care. She
was just four years old.
House Bill 1333, Sirita’s Law, would require DSHS to conduct background
checks and determine services needed for caregivers prior to placing
children in their homes. The measure would also require annual training
of law enforcement on child abuse and neglect, and encourage new
collaboration with DSHS.
Raphael Gomez was a young boy also placed in foster care. He was
returned to live with his mother. Raphael died of blunt force trauma to
his head while in her care. He was just two years old.
House Bill 1334, the Raphael Gomez Act, would require DSHS to submit
documentation to the courts whenever it makes a recommendation or
assertion in a dependency or termination of parental rights case.
“No child should suffer the way Raphael and Sirita suffered during their
short lives. I believe we have a responsibility to create the safest,
most secure environment possible for all children,” said Hinkle. “I
think we’ve made great strides today.”
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For more information, contact:
John
Handy, Assistant Director: (360) 786-5758
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