Current foster parent screening requires checks against crime databases and child abuse registries. Beginning in June, foster parent screening will also include checks to see if previous licenses have been revoked or if children have been removed from their care and the reasons for removal.
Governor Cuomo signed the measure and sponsors couldn’t be happier. According to ABC New York, even though the state is responsible for the safe care of foster children, “there continues to be instances where children are abused or even killed by foster parents.”
The Office of Children and Family Services report that incidences of abuse and neglect of children in foster care has dropped from 2% in 2009 to 1.2% in 2012. Still, with 27 deaths between 2008-2009, the numbers are too high.
The full story may be read at the Legislative Gazette.
