State Laws And Let Grow Updates in Washington
Let Grow is making a lasting impact across the entire United States. With the help of greater childhood awareness, volunteers and faithful donations, it is our goal to bring Let Grow programs to thousands of schools and neighborhoods across the country. Take a look at what’s happening in Washington and how you can help.
State Laws And Policies
Criminal Law:
Washington State’s criminal code is quite limited in its authorization of prosecutions insofar as it requires a showing of imminent and substantial risk of substantial bodily harm to a child or dependent person by withholding any of the basic necessities of life. This statute does not target children being left alone without adult supervision, but it also does not clearly prevent such prosecutions. RCW 9A.08.010, Washington motor vehicle law provides that it is unlawful for any person, while operating or in charge of a vehicle, to park or willfully allow such vehicle to stand upon a public highway or in a public place with its motor running, leaving a minor child or children under the age of sixteen years unattended in the vehicle. RCW 16. This “kid in car” law seems limited to truly dangerous and unlawful leaving of children in cars.
Juvenile Court | Child Protective Services | Neglect Law:
RCW 26.44.020 defines “negligent treatment” as an act or omission that evidences a serious disregard of consequences of such magnitude as to constitute a clear and present danger to the child’s health, welfare, and safety. While this is a better (narrower) neglect law than many states have, it does not specifically afford protections for independent activities.
Disclaimer:
This webpage is not a legal document, and Let Grow does not take responsibility for the content. Be mindful that some localities have rules and guidelines even when the state does not. When in doubt, consult your local authorities to confirm the laws where you live. What’s more, laws change, as do judicial interpretations of them, and this webpage may not be updated immediately.
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Nationwide State Laws And Policies
Learn More About Laws And Policies In Other States
Right now, most states’ neglect laws are incredibly open-ended. They say things like, “Parent must provide proper supervision.” We agree! But people have different ideas of what that entails. Select a state below to learn more about their laws, policies and how Let Grow is helping.