Foster children and youth: family urgent response system.
The implementation of AB 2043 will require county child welfare, probation, and behavioral health agencies to establish coordinated Family Urgent Response Systems, which will include mobile response teams available 24/7. Each county must submit a comprehensive plan outlining the operational framework and how they will incorporate community resources. This initiative is expected to improve access to immediate crisis support and foster greater collaboration among agencies, thereby reducing disruptions to stable living situations for children and youth in foster care.
Assembly Bill 2043, introduced by Assembly Member Arambula, aims to establish a Family Urgent Response System for caregivers and current or former foster youth in California. The legislation builds upon the existing Continuum of Care Reform (CCR) framework, intended to enhance the state's child welfare system by providing immediate assistance during crises. The bill mandates the creation of a statewide hotline operational by January 1, 2020, serving as the entry point for timely support. The hotlines will connect caregivers and youth in urgent situations to local resources and stabilization teams, ultimately promoting a quicker resolution to crises and facilitating better outcomes for vulnerable children and their families.
Overall, the sentiment regarding AB 2043 appears to be positive, reflecting a strong legislative commitment to enhancing services for foster youth and caregivers. Proponents argue that the bill will enable timely interventions that are critical in preventing escalation of crises that might lead to placement disruptions or legal involvement. As such, there is an expectation that the Family Urgent Response System will not only ease pressure on the foster care system but also better support the emotional and behavioral needs of youth.
Nonetheless, concerns have been raised about ensuring adequate funding for these new initiatives, as the bill proposes a state-mandated local program without a specific measure for state reimbursement of potentially increased costs incurred by counties. The requirement for counties to collaborate on establishing these systems might pose logistical challenges, particularly for smaller counties which may lack existing resources. Debate around these provisions suggests a need for clarity in the funding mechanisms and oversight to assure the success of the system.