Latest / Spokane News Today | 2 Min | The Daily News Now!
Child Welfare Crisis Deepens in WA | Spokane News
Washington state saw a shocking spike in child deaths and near-fatal injuries tied to the child welfare system in 2025, with 35 children dying and 49 suffering critical harm—mostly from accidental drug overdoses while under parental care. Though overdose deaths statewide have since declined, officials warn the data underscores urgent gaps in protection, especially for infants. While the ombuds’ office reported 84 incidents—up from 2024’s 82 but still below 2023’s totals—lawmakers are pushing for bold reforms, including revising outdated laws that hindered timely interventions. Despite no new…
The skinny
The skinny isn't ready yet — notes appear once the transcript is processed.