February 10-14
At this juncture in the legislative session, the focus is on the movement of policy bills. The deadline for bills to be voted out of policy committees is fast approaching on February 21st, followed by the fiscal committee deadline on February 28th. These deadlines are crucial, as bills that do not make it out of committee by these dates are considered “dead” for the remainder of the session. This significantly narrows the scope of legislation that will be discussed in the coming months.
However, there is an important exception: Any bill necessary to implement the budget can still be considered up until the final day of the legislative session. If the budget calls for adjustments to existing laws, those bills remain in play throughout the session.
It is encouraging that priority bills for Partners for Our Children continue to advance through the process. Highlights from this week include:
- The House Early Learning and Human Services Committee heard HB 1509 which would implement a community-based model to deliver prevention services to families experiencing conflict. In its current form, Family Reconciliation Services is not reaching families who need help, particularly families of color. The Department of Children, Youth, and Families conducted a design process last year to develop a community-based, culturally responsive model for the delivery of these services. HB 1509 would implement this new model in three regions of the state.
- The Senate Human Services Committee voted on SB 5508 to improve the Child Welfare Housing Assistance Program, which addresses housing instability when it is a barrier for families to reunite or stay together. The bill is now referred to the Ways and Means Committee.
- The Senate Ways and Means Committee held a hearing on SB 5488, which would end the practice of taking SSI and other federal benefits from children and youth in foster care to pay for their basic care.
On deck for next week:
- The House Appropriations Committee will hear HB 1177, the companion to SB 5508, to improve the Child Welfare Housing Assistance Program.minal Justice Training Commission. Entitlements that are cash benefits to residents were also excluded.
Weekly bill tracker
The P4C tracker highlights bills related to our priorities, particularly in child welfare. Please note that the inclusion of bills in the tracker does not reflect P4C’s position for or against the bill.
Other ways to stay informed
- The legislative website provides comprehensive information on bills, committee schedules, and contact information for legislators.
- TVW offers live and archived coverage of legislative committees and other events.