Senate Protects Youth in the Custody of the State

CONCORD, NH – Senator Sharon Carson (R-Londonderry) and Senator Becky Whitley (D-Hopkinton), released the following statement today on the Committee of Conference report for SB 417-FN and HB 1573, relative to out-of-home placement for children:

“Children are often unable to advocate for themselves, which is why it is up to legislators to be their voice. These bills prioritize keeping children in an out-of-home placement with their siblings, grandparents, other family members, or fictive kin, and importantly, in their communities. They also create a certification team for certifying residential treatment facilities for kids that helps ensure our youth are safe and their well-being is prioritized. These bills also expand evidence courts may consider when determining whether it is in a child’s best interest to give a non-custodial parent custody of a child already in the state’s custody due to abuse of neglect. This bill strikes a balance between the rights and safety of the child and the rights of parents,” said Senator Carson.

“It is one of our highest duties as lawmakers to protect New Hampshire’s most vulnerable children, and we must act with extreme care and caution when placing a child in an out-of-home situation. I am truly grateful for the bipartisan work of everyone involved with SB 417, as I know we all had the best interests of children and families at the forefront of our hearts and minds. SB 417 will protect our most vulnerable children and make New Hampshire a safer place for Granite State kiddos to grow and thrive into the amazing people they are meant to be,” added Senator Whitley.