A proposed bill in Washington state, characterized as a repeal of the state's Parents Bill of Rights, has ignited a debate over its provision allowing a 48-hour delay in informing parents about assaults on their children. While supporters argue that the bill is necessary to align with current law and ensure proper investigations, opponents express concern that it undermines parental rights and puts children at risk.
A new bill in Washington state, described as a repeal of the state's Parents Bill of Rights, includes a provision that allows information about assaults on children to be withheld from parents for up to 48 hours. State Sen. Claire Wilson, a Democrat representing Federal Way, told the Washington State Standard that the bill overall 'doesn't change any rights' and is a 'cleanup bill' that updates health privacy provisions to align with current law.
However, during a House Education Committee hearing this week, a lawmaker unsuccessfully attempted to remove the 48-hour rule and mandate immediate parental notification. Rep. Travis Couture, a Republican from Shelton, expressed concern that the bill would allow schools to delay informing parents about criminal actions involving their children or sexual misconduct by staff. He cited reports of two principals in the Vancouver, Wash., area allegedly 'hiding information' from parents regarding sexual misconduct against a teenager. Couture argued that parents have the right to know immediately if their children were victims of sexual abuse by school staff. He urged the committee to vote in favor of his amendment, emphasizing the importance of parental involvement in such sensitive situations.Despite Couture's concerns and plea, the amendment failed in a voice vote. Rep. Lillian Ortiz-Self, a Democrat from Mukilteo and a former school guidance counselor, defended the bill, stating that schools must follow the guidance of law enforcement and the Department of Children and Family Services in cases of alleged crimes. She emphasized the need to allow authorities the time and space to conduct thorough investigations without interference. Ortiz-Self argued that schools' role is to support both the child and the parents involved in the situation. Rep. Matt Marshall, a Republican from Roy, proposed an amendment requiring parental notification if they are accused of a crime and have more than a 'meet and greet' with a police officer. He asserted that parents have a constitutional right to legal protection and that children need to be aware of their rights when being questioned by law enforcement. Marshall criticized the committee Democrats for rejecting numerous Republican amendments, claiming it showed a disregard for parental rights and children's safety. He accused Democrats of prioritizing their 'woke agenda' over the well-being of children
Washington State Parents Bill Of Rights Child Assault Parental Notification Law Enforcement Republican Democrat Education Committee
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Amazon Sues Washington State Agency to Block Release of Documents to Bezos-Owned Washington PostAmazon is suing a Washington state agency to prevent the release of some company materials to The Washington Post, the newspaper owned by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. The lawsuit, filed in King County Superior Court, seeks to block the release of documents containing 'trade secrets' about Project Kuiper, Amazon's satellite internet initiative. The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries collected the files during investigations of a Project Kuiper facility. The Post requested the documents through a public records request. Amazon argues it's not seeking to prevent the disclosure of all documents but sensitive personal information and proprietary records.
Read more »
Amazon Sues Washington State Agency to Block Release of Documents to The Washington PostAmazon is suing a Washington state agency to prevent the release of some company materials to The Washington Post, the newspaper which is owned by Jeff Bezos. The lawsuit, filed this week, centers around documents collected by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries during four on-site investigations of an Amazon Project Kuiper facility last year. Amazon argues that the release of these documents, which the agency proposed sharing with The Post, should be blocked as they contain sensitive personal information, employee names, and proprietary technology details. The lawsuit highlights ongoing tension between Amazon and regulators regarding worker safety issues, following past disputes over citations and fines. A spokesperson for The Washington Post declined to comment.
Read more »
Jeff Bezos's Amazon Suing Washington State to Protect Trade Secrets from The Washington PostAmazon, owned by Jeff Bezos, is suing Washington state to prevent the release of information regarding an investigation into one of its facilities. The lawsuit, filed against the Department of Labor and Industries, seeks to shield trade secrets related to Kuiper, Amazon's private satellite network. The Washington Post, also owned by Bezos, had requested the information through a public records request.
Read more »
Washington State Gears Up for FIFA World Cup 2026 with Fan Zones Across the StateSeattle is set to host FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, while nine Washington cities will host fan zones, showcasing the state's best to a global audience. The fan zones promise to generate economic benefits and create lasting legacies for communities.
Read more »
Penn State Football: Former Penn State Receiver Omari Evans Transfers to WashingtonFormer Penn State receiver Omari Evans, who entered the NCAA Transfer Portal after the Orange Bowl, will play for the Washington Huskies in 2025.
Read more »
Washington State visits Oregon State after Rees' 22-point gameOregon State faces the Washington State Cougars after Kelsey Rees scored 22 points in Oregon State's 67-66 loss to the Pacific Tigers. Monday's meeting is the first this season for the two squads. Oregon State is 5-5 against the WCC, and Washington State is 7-4 against conference opponents.
Read more »