Rhode Island Senate Bill S0564

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/25
• Refer: 2/26/25

Caption

Requires DCYF to submit a one-time, detailed report on the effectiveness of EBPs in keeping children out of foster care, providing valuable data on the programs' impact on high-risk families, reunification outcomes, and program availability.

Impact

The bill emphasizes the importance of structured reporting on various metrics, including the availability of EBPs, outcomes related to family stabilization, and the effectiveness of reunification efforts for children previously in foster care. By evaluating these factors, the bill aims to improve services for at-risk children and families, thereby potentially lowering foster care placements and enhancing the overall efficacy of state interventions.

Summary

Bill S0564 mandates the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) to produce a one-time detailed report evaluating the effectiveness of evidence-based programs (EBPs) aligned with the Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA). This report is intended to provide crucial insights into the impact these programs have on high-risk families and their roles in promoting stability and reducing the need for foster care placements.

Contention

Notably, the requirement for DCYF to submit this detailed report is predicated on the state's compliance with the FFPSA. This stipulation underscores a growing trend among state governments to strengthen family support systems to prevent children from entering foster care. There may be potential contention surrounding the adequacy of resources allocated to these EBPs and whether their implementation sufficiently addresses the diverse needs of high-risk families.