On July 22, the US House Committee on Ways and Means introduced child welfare legislation that could have a meaningful impact for counties: Protecting America’s Children by Strengthening Families Act (H.R. 9076).
H.R. 9076 reauthorizes and updates Title IV-B of the Social Security Act. If enacted this legislation could improve child welfare programs by increasing mandatory funding by $300 million over four years. H.R. 9076 supports caseworker recruitment and retention, technology improvements, and provides new flexibility to assist families experiencing poverty. H.R. 9076 addresses county priorities by including support for families affected by substance use disorders, improvements to legal proceedings, and allowances for virtual visits with foster youth over 18.
Similarly, in the 2024 legislative session, MACo supported HB 694 – Engaging Neighborhoods, Organizations, Unions, Governments, and Households (ENOUGH) Grant Program. The ENOUGH Act re-established the Governor’s Office for Children as well as the grant fund to advance place-based strategies for combating child poverty across Maryland. As previously reported on Conduit Street, local government agencies are essential partners in the effort to end child poverty statewide. Schools, local management boards, health departments, social service teams, and law enforcement agencies all play vital roles in addressing food, housing, and financial insecurity for residents, especially children and their families. Hunger, homelessness, and limited access to healthcare negatively impact educational outcomes, job readiness, and economic opportunities.
MACo will continue to provide updates on health and human services legislation impacting counties.
