our work
Current Issues
2022 Lead Legislative Agenda
Black and Indigenous youth, and other youth of color (BIPOC youth) are overrepresented in foster care, among those experiencing homelessness, and in our juvenile justice system due to historic and current systemic racism. We are actively committed to eliminating these disparities. We are also focused on addressing the impacts that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on young people. As always, our legislative agenda is guided and inspired by youth with lived experience.
Justice for Justice (HB 2034)
Financial Capability for Youth in Foster Care (SB 5824)
Extend Foster Care
Solution: Budget proviso to continue monthly financial assistance for youth who age out of Extended Foster Care through the biennium.
Champion: Senator Wilson
2022 Support Agenda
Consent to Care (SB 5883)
medical care.
Champions: Sen. Trudeau
Expand Independent Youth Housing Program (SB 5566)
Ensure housing stability for former foster youth by expanding eligibility for the Independent Youth Housing Program to include young adults 18-24 with any history of foster care, including those in Extended Foster Care.
Lead: Office of Homeless Youth
Champion: Sen. Kuderer
Supporting Stable Transitions from Care (HB 1905)
Promote exits from systems of care into safe and stable housing for youth and young adults, including flexible funding for those exiting in-patient treatment, foster care, and juvenile justice as well as creating a rapid response team.
Lead: WA Coalition for Homeless Youth Advocacy
Champion: Rep. Senn
Guaranteed Basic Income (HB 2009)
Lead: Statewide Poverty Action Network
Champion: Rep. Berry
Independent Living Lifeline (HB 1883)
Establish an Independent Living Lifeline for youth at risk and who have aged out can call for assistance.
Lead: NorthStar Advocates
Champion: Rep. Chopp
Compensate lived expertise on state advisory boards (SB 5793)
Ensure people with lived experience receive compensation for their expertise on state boards and advisory groups.
Lead: Attorney General's Office
Champion: Sen. Wilson
Budget Increases
Add $1.2 million to budget to expand availability of on-site behavioral health services in homeless youth shelters.
Add $450,000 to budget to strengthen the Homeless Student Stability Program.
Budget Champion: Rep. Callan