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Monday, March 24, 2008

Ind. Courts - "Courts lose some say on kids in state's care"

Tim Evans of the Indianapolis Star has a story today that begins:

Tucked into the 600 pages of tax-reform legislation signed into law last week by Gov. Mitch Daniels are several provisions that will mean judges might no longer get the last word in deciding what's best for abused children in the state's care.

The coming changes have already made judges and others apprehensive, though advocates say they will deliver millions in savings to taxpayers while expanding the state's ability to collect federal reimbursements.
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The new policies and procedures outlined in House Enrolled Act 1001 are part of a shift that makes the state, rather than counties, responsible for the $440 million annual cost of providing services to abused and neglected children and their families as well as to youths in the juvenile justice system.

James W. Payne, who heads the Department of Child Services, called the legislation "a unique opportunity to move forward" with child welfare reforms launched by Daniels in 2005. Most of the changes are set to take effect Jan. 1.

But Payne acknowledged there will be an adjustment period for judges, service providers, local officials and others who will see their roles changing -- in some cases, significantly.

Posted by Marcia Oddi on March 24, 2008 10:06 AM
Posted to Indiana Courts