Click Here to Read Voices for Children’s Full Testimony on LB 296
This afternoon, Voices for Children Policy Associate Julia Tse testified in favor of LB 296, which would require the Department of Health and Human Services to provide notification after the removal of a child and update the definition of “sibling” to comply with the definition in the federal foster care program.
When children cannot safely remain in their own homes, an effective response must consider both the needs and the strengths of each family on an individual basis. Voices for Children in Nebraska supports LB 296, which would require the Department of Health and Human Services to notify all parents with legal custody of a sibling of the child who has been removed from their home.
When possible and appropriate, notifying more trusted adults upon removal can ensure that our system can swiftly identify individuals who are best situated to support and care for a child. Maintaining sibling ties can be crucial to a child’s support system, especially during the emotional turmoil of a removal.
Click Here to Read Voices for Children’s Full Testimony on LB 296
Comment(1)-
Carol Gilbert says
February 25, 2015 at 9:45 pmCan we move toward connecting children at risk with their extended family BEFORE they’re removed from homes? These folks could be brought into the loop when parents are struggling. They can provide support to avoid crisis, and then if children are removed they can help provide continuity.