Law & Policy

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted to provide parents with free legal counsel at the outset of a child welfare investigation.  

Across the country, local child welfare agencies like many in Minnesota are the financial representatives for foster youth eligible for federal benefits — a practice that could violate federal law.

With substitute teachers in California in scarce supply and school officials worried about future staffing, one lawmaker is proposing solutions.

A bill approved by the Minnesota Legislature today would establish a new ombuds office — a watchdog agency to serve the interests of foster youth.

California is trying to make its cash assistance program more flexible for low-income parents. Advocates say a federal rule is hindering that.

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves signed a bill last week that will provide free college and technical school tuition for Mississippi foster youth through a scholarship fund.

The Texas Legislature is ramping up its oversight of the state’s child welfare agency amid ongoing revelations of children harmed in government care and repeated condemnations from the federal courts.

In New York, activist groups, residents and Gov. Kathy Hochul reacted last week to a video of Syracuse police detaining an 8-year-old boy.

In Texas, top politicians say gender-affirming care is abuse, compelling one therapist to protect her clients — and her family.