To be eligible for placement in a responsible living skills program, the minor must be dependent under chapter 13.34 RCW and must have lived in a HOPE center or in a secure crisis residential center. However, if the minor's caseworker determines that placement in a responsible living skills program would be the most appropriate placement given the minor's current circumstances, prior residence in a HOPE center or secure crisis residential center before placement in a responsible living program is not required. Responsible living skills [skill] centers are intended as a placement alternative for dependent youth that the department chooses for the youth because no other services or alternative placements have been successful. Responsible living skills [skill] centers are not for dependent youth whose permanency plan includes return to home or family reunification.

Findings—Intent—Severability—1999 c 267: See notes following RCW 43.20A.790.