The following definitions apply to relatives and suitable persons placements:

"Department" means the Washington state department of children, youth, and families.

"Relatives" means the same as defined in RCW 13.36.020(5), described in RCW  74.15.020(2), or caregivers of Indian children or youth who are defined by tribal code or custom as relatives or extended family.

"Suitable persons" means nonrelatives with whom the child or youth, or the child's or youth's family, has a preexisting relationship; who has completed all required criminal history background checks and otherwise appears to be suitable and competent to provide care for the child or youth, and with whom they have been placed pursuant to RCW 13.34.130.