Right to a Family Advocate in Child Welfare Cases.
This Act requires states, as a condition of receiving federal child welfare funding, to facilitate access to family advocates for parents, foster parents, and legal guardians in any child welfare case. The advocate will have the authority to represent the family's interests, enhancing their ability to navigate the child welfare system. States must inform citizens about this right and available resources, though they are not required to pay for the advocate's services.
Key points
Establishes the right for parents, foster parents, and legal guardians to seek and receive the services of a family advocate in child welfare interactions.
States must inform individuals of their right to be represented by a family advocate and provide information on local resources to obtain representation.
The state is not obligated to pay or provide for the services of the family advocate; costs may fall to the family.
Requires states to report to Congress on the effect of honoring this right on the provision of child welfare services.
Expired
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