Rep. Joshua Penner: You can’t shut it down without a plan | Committee speech in opposition to House Bill 1472
In this clear, sincere testimony before the House Early Learning and Human Services Committee, Rep. Joshua Penner, R-Orting, urges a no vote on House Bill 1472, which proposes closing Rainier School and Yakima Valley School—two of Washington’s remaining Residential Habilitation Centers (RHCs)—within just two years.
Penner stated: “Two years is lightning speed in government terms… This bill assumes a plan will appear out of thin air. That’s a recipe for disaster.”
He emphasizes that this isn’t about resisting change—he supports community-based solutions like State-Operated Living Alternatives (SOLAs). However, he argues that those systems are not yet equipped to support individuals with the highest needs. Closing RHCs without first building and legislating a clear plan risks lives and abandons vulnerable individuals and families.
“This bill in its current form is not possible. That’s why I’m urgently requesting a no vote.”
