Louisiana House Bill HB112

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/21/19
• Refer: 3/21/19
• Refer: 4/8/19
• Report Pass: 4/25/19
• Engrossed: 5/6/19
• Refer: 5/7/19
• Report Pass: 5/15/19
• Enrolled: 5/22/19
• Chaptered: 5/30/19
• Passed: 5/30/19

Caption

Provides relative to criminal convictions which disqualify a person from becoming a foster or adoptive parent or relative guardian of a child

Impact

The implications of this bill are significant for the foster care and adoption systems in Louisiana. By establishing stricter criteria regarding the criminal history of prospective guardians, this legislation theoretically aims to protect children from potential harm by ensuring that they are not placed in homes where adults have disqualifying felony convictions. This could lead to a more robust system with potentially fewer risks for children but may also result in a shortage of available foster homes as some potential caregivers may be disqualified due to past convictions.

Summary

House Bill 112 amends existing Louisiana laws regarding the placement of children with foster or adoptive parents and relative guardians. The bill aims to ensure that no child is placed into a foster or adoptive situation until a thorough background check is conducted on all adults residing in the potential home. Specifically, it prohibits the placement of children if there are certain felony convictions related to child abuse, spousal abuse, and other violent or drug-related offenses, thereby enhancing the screening process for those involved in child welfare.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment toward HB 112 appears to be positive, particularly among child welfare advocates who emphasize the importance of child safety and the integrity of the fostering system. Supporters argue that the measures outlined in the bill are necessary to offer better protection for vulnerable children. However, there may be concerns about whether the stringent nature of the disqualifications could inadvertently exclude otherwise suitable candidates who have reformed and could provide a loving and supportive home.

Contention

Debates surrounding HB 112 highlight a tension between ensuring child safety and the potential for overregulation that might lead to a decrease in available foster homes. Critics of stringent disqualifications may argue that individuals with past non-violent offenses should not be categorically barred from becoming foster or adoptive parents, particularly if they have demonstrated rehabilitation. Therefore, while the bill's goal is to enhance child protection, the actual impact on the foster care system and the ability to maintain a sufficient number of qualified applicants may require further consideration.