OLYMPIA, Washington — Deaths and serious injuries among children in Washington’s child welfare system are on track to reach record highs in 2025, despite recent signs of improvement. According to the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF), 15 children have died and 30 nearly died in the first nine months of the year, compared with 49 incidents in 2024 and 51 in 2023.
Officials say more than half of these cases are linked to opioids, particularly fentanyl. Many involved families previously flagged for drug use and unsafe conditions. Assistant Secretary Vickie Ybarra said incidents dropped from 22 in the first quarter to nine in the third, but warned 2025 could still be the state’s worst year.
The crisis has renewed debate over the 2021 Keeping Families Together Act, which made it harder to remove children from their homes. Critics, including Rep. Travis Couture (R-Allyn), argue the law leaves kids in danger, while Democrats such as Rep. Steve Bergquist (D-Renton) say it needs adjustments, not repeal.
DCYF is seeking $4 million in Gov. Bob Ferguson’s 2026 budget to expand addiction treatment and post-case family support, alongside 37 new staff positions aimed at improving oversight and safety within the child welfare system.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
