Senator Gallivan Announces New Law to Better Protect Children in Foster Care

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma) announces legislation that closes crucial gaps in the communication between and among agencies responsible for the safety of children in foster care has been signed into law. The bill (S4172) was sponsored by Senator Gallivan and requires the notification of agencies placing foster children when there are reports of suspected abuse or maltreatment at homes where children have been placed.  This would prevent the unwitting placement of additional children in situations that risk subjecting them to abuse or maltreatment.

“The state has a responsibility to ensure the safety and welfare of all of New York’s children, especially those in foster care,” Gallivan said.  “By sharing critical information about suspected abuse or maltreatment, we can better protect these vulnerable children and avoid putting additional youth at risk.”

The measure requires that the authorized agency and any social services district charged with the care, custody or guardianship of a child receive a copy of a report of a child’s suspected abuse or maltreatment where the authorized agency is not the social services district in which the home is located.

The State Senate and Assembly passed the legislation earlier this year.  Governor Cuomo signed the bill into law on September 12, 2017.

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