The resolution highlights California's commitment to improving outcomes in the foster care system, which includes reforms aimed at enhancing the assessment processes for children needing care and prioritizing home-based family placements over institutional settings. It also recognizes ongoing efforts to develop a comprehensive behavioral health system addressing the trauma experienced by children in foster care. This initiative intends to foster permanent family connections, reduce the number of children entering the system, and improve educational and mental health services, particularly in the wake of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 81 (ACR81) was introduced by Assembly Members Bryan and Hart to declare May 2023 as Foster Care Month in California. The resolution emphasizes the critical need for nurturing and stable environments for the nearly 60,000 children and youth currently in the foster care system. It aims to acknowledge the significant role of foster parents, adoptive parents, and other community partners in providing emotional and physical support to these vulnerable children, which is essential for their development and future success.
ACR81 acknowledges significant disparities affecting children of color within the foster care system, particularly Black and indigenous youths. Reports indicate these groups face multiple placements and have lower rates of family reunification. The resolution calls for collaborative efforts among local governments and stakeholders to tackle these systemic issues, yet it also implicitly raises discussions about the adequacy of current initiatives and the pressing need for more effective and equitable solutions in the child welfare landscape.