Consideration of a Differential Response in Washington State's Child Protective System

The Children’s Administration was asked to review and provide information to the Legislature concerning the implementation of a differential (also called alternative) response to child protective service - CPS investigations in Washington State. The purpose of this interim report is to: Provide an overview of how differential response systems are implemented in other states. Describe what we have learned from outcome reviews of other states’ differential response systems. List policy issues that will require further stakeholder discussion. Identify issues specific to Washington. Describe pros and cons of implementing a differential response system in Washington at this time and discuss next steps.