sr1270_As_introduced_LC_33_1505

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06 LC 33 1505

Senate Resolution 1270

By: Senators Hill of the 32nd, Schaefer of the 50th, Pearson of the 51st, Williams of the 19th, Stephens of the 27th and others

A RESOLUTION

Urging and requesting the Department of Human Resources to conduct a multiday state-wide conference to discuss the values and beliefs which should form the foundation for Georgiás child welfare system as determined by the department́s Division of Family and Children Services, Georgia citizenry, legislators, other leaders, and other interested parties; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia places great value in the family unit and in our children; and

WHEREAS, the Division of Family and Children Services of the Department of Human Resources has a vital and challenging role in the protection of Georgiás children; and

WHEREAS, the mission and core values and beliefs of the division with regard to supporting Georgiás families and keeping children safe drive the child protection policies and procedures of the division; and

WHEREAS, a discussion of the values and beliefs underlying the foundation of the child welfare system is necessary; and

WHEREAS, a number of best practices such as family team meetings and citizen review panels are currently used in parts of the state and other parts of the state may benefit from state-wide implementation.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that this body hereby urges and requests the Department of Human Resources to conduct a multiday state-wide conference to discuss the values and beliefs which should form the foundation for Georgiás child welfare system. The scope of the conference should include but not be limited to discussion relating to the feasibility and efficacy of instituting citizen review panels, conducting family team meetings, and exploring other issues deemed appropriate and relevant to the purpose of the conference. The multiday conference shall include three representatives from each of the judicial, legislative, and executive branches of state government as well as local level judicial officers and representatives from academia and service providers, other appropriate personnel, foster families, and advocates. The President Pro Tempore of the Senate shall recommend to the department three senators to participate in the conference. The department is urged and requested to conduct this conference and make recommendations, including possible legislation, to the General Assembly on or before December 31, 2006.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to the commissioner of the Department of Human Resources.