Griffo, Rozic Announce Law to Increase Protections for Children in Foster Homes

Bill Improves the Screening Process for Prospective Foster Parents

UTICA – Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D,WF-Queens) and Senator Joseph Griffo (R-Rome) announced that legislation (A8474/S6875) they drafted to protect foster children from being placed in unsuitable homes has been signed into law by Governor Cuomo. The new law creates a formal system for an agency to review and evaluate an applicant’s history if the applicant were to apply to another agency to take in foster children.

“The vast majority of foster parents open their homes and their hearts to provide structure and care to children in need of secure placements,” said Senator Griffo. “While they’ve shown tremendous commitment to these kids, the State should match those efforts by sharing the pertinent history of foster parent applicants. This coordination could help avert tragic consequences if an unsuitable foster parent slips through the cracks. We’re pleased that the Governor echoed our concerns.”

“There should not be any loopholes in the law that could potentially put a child at risk by placing him or her in an unsafe home,” said Assemblywoman Rozic. “I thank Senator Griffo for his advocacy and commend Governor Cuomo for approving a measure that requires agencies to work together to ensure the safety and well-being of our children.”

Agencies will be required to consult with the Office of Children and Family Services on whether a foster parent’s application has been certified or revoked, or if a child was removed from the home. In such instances where a child was removed, the agency would be responsible for determining whether or not the foster parent should be re-certified and the home re-opened.

Rozic and Griffo will work with local and state agencies to ensure successful implementation of the law before it becomes effective in June 2015.