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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Department to focus on children, families

OLYMPIA – The state government continued the process of reconfiguring several agencies that provide programs for children with the formal launch Monday of the Department of Children, Youth and Family Services.

Over the last two years, the state has combined the former Department of Early Learning with the Children’s Administration, which had been part of the Department of Social and Health Services.

“We shouldn’t be waiting until a child is harmed to step in,” Gov. Jay Inslee said at a ceremony in his office. Bringing together staff who work children and families will make the state much better able to find those who are struggling and need support, he said.

The Juvenile Justice Rehabilitation Administration will be moved into the department next July.