Washington § 26.44.170 - Alleged child abuse or neglect — Use of alcohol or controlled substances as contributing factor — Evaluation.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 26.44.170 — Alleged child abuse or neglect — Use of alcohol or controlled substances as contributing factor — Evaluation., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 26.44.170. Alleged child abuse or neglect — Use of alcohol or controlled substances as contributing factor — Evaluation.

(1) When, as a result of a report of alleged child abuse or neglect, an investigation is made that includes an in-person contact with the person who is alleged to have committed the abuse or neglect, there shall be a determination of whether it is probable that the use of alcohol or controlled substances is a contributing factor to the alleged abuse or neglect.
(2) The department shall provide appropriate training for persons who conduct the investigations under subsection (1) of this section. The training shall include methods of identifying indicators of abuse of alcohol or controlled substances.
(3) If a determination is made under subsection (1) of this section that there is probable cause to believe abuse of alcohol or controlled substances has contributed to the child abuse or neglect, the department shall, within available funds, cause a comprehensive chemical dependency evaluation to be made of the person or persons so identified. The evaluation shall be conducted by a physician or persons certified under rules adopted by the department to make such evaluation. The department shall perform the duties assigned under this section within existing personnel resources.
[ 1997 c 386 s 48.]

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 26.44.170

What does Revised Code of Washington § 26.44.170 cover?

Section 26.44.170 ("Alleged child abuse or neglect — Use of alcohol or controlled substances as contributing factor — Evaluation.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

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A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 26.44.170" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

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