Within available resources, the department shall provide a foster parent liaison position in each department region. The department shall contract with a private nonprofit organization to provide the foster parent liaison function. The foster parent liaison shall enhance the working relationship between department case workers and foster parents. The foster parent liaison shall provide expedited assistance for the unique needs and requirements posed by special needs foster children in out-of-home care. Any contract entered into under this section for a foster parent liaison shall include a requirement that the contractor substantially reduce the turnover rate of foster parents in the region by an agreed upon percentage. The department shall evaluate whether an organization that has a contract under this section has reduced the turnover rate by the agreed upon amount or more when determining whether to extend or renew a contract under this section.

[1997 c 272 § 2.]

NOTES:

     Effective date -- 1997 c 272: See note following RCW 74.13.031.