By KENNEDY GRIFFIN
(Boston, MA) An Act Establishing Foster Parents’ Bill of Rights made it through the House early January 4th and onto Governor Maura Healey’s desk. The legislation was filed in Senate by Senator Jo Comerford and in the House by Representative Tricia Farley-Bouvier.
The bill expands and codifies foster family rights such as appropriate communication between the Department of Children and Families (DCF), courts, and other parties involved in the child’s welfare; freedom from all forms of discrimination; parenting standards focused on child safety and routine; enabling participation in events and experiences; and training and resources.
The lead sponsor of the legislation in Senate, Jo Comerford, said, “I am thrilled that the House and Senate passed the Foster Parents Bill of Rights legislation. Foster parents are true unsung heroes, providing unmatched dedication, commitment, compassion and love to those who need it the most. This bill creates a framework so that foster parents will be honored with dignity, respect, privacy and consideration in caring for children in their care so they can provide the best care in loving homes. As a foster parent myself, I filed this bill to put strengthen our vital foster care system. I am thankful to the Children’s League and other supporters for their work to get this bill passed.”
Representative Farley-Bouvier said, “I am delighted that we were able to send the Foster Parents bill of rights to the governor’s desk at the end of the 192nd session. My partners, Senator Jo Comerford (D-Northampton) and Representative Paul Donato (D-Medford), and myself have worked tirelessly on this critical and commonsense legislation that will support our foster parents across Massachusetts. Our foster parents deserve so much for all they do in opening their hearts and their homes to our most vulnerable children.”