Republicans question oversight, staffing and equipment in House Bill 1472 | House Appropriations Committee
During public testimony on House Bill 1472 in the House Appropriations Committee, Reps. Michael Keaton, R-Puyallup, Matt Marshall, R-Eatonville, Joshua Penner, R-Orting, and Travis Couture, R-Allyn, raised serious concerns about the lack of legislative oversight, staff retention and planning for specialized equipment in the proposed closure of residential habilitation centers.
Keaton questioned whether the bill includes any safeguards or oversight mechanisms to prevent negative outcomes like those seen in previous closures.
Marshall emphasized the importance of preserving specialized staff and their critical expertise.
Penner sought clarification on whether the bill guarantees continuity of care through staff retention.
Couture raised the issue of what would happen to essential equipment at facilities like Rainier and Yakima Valley Schools.
Watch the full exchange to hear their pointed questions and learn more about the scope—and limitations—of HB 1472.
