4141141 Resolution 19-757, “Foster Youth Statements of Rights and Responsibilities Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2012”

A RESOLUTION

                                                        

19-757  

 

IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

 

December 18, 2012

 

To declare the existence of an emergency with the respect to the need to ensure that all youth in foster care have access to all information regarding their rights and responsibilities while in foster care.

 

 

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this resolution may be cited as the “Foster Youth Statements of Rights and Responsibilities Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2012”.

 

            Sec. 2.  (a)  There exists an immediate need to consolidate the exiting rights of youth in foster care; ensure that foster youth are informed of their rights; that training on the rights of foster youth is provided for social workers, providers, foster parents, and other persons who are associated with the care of youth; and that there is a mechanism in place by which youth or someone on their behalf can report concerns regarding their care, placement, and services provided through the Child and Family Services Agency.  Additionally, there is an immediate need to ensure that youth in foster care receive vital identification, health care, medical, and educational documents at least 30 days before leaving care. 

(b)  Emergency legislation is necessary to ensure that foster youth receive the services and supports that they are entitled to and are protected while in care.

 

         Sec. 3.  The Council of the District of Columbia determines that the circumstances enumerated in section 2 constitute emergency circumstances making it necessary that the Foster Youth Statements of Rights and Responsibilities Emergency Amendment Act of 2012 be adopted after a single reading.

 

Sec. 4.  This resolution shall take effect immediately.