Received support for three cases on behalf of disadvantaged children and reported the following positive developments in each suit.
Concluded a successful suit challenging abusive practices in Texas’ foster care system where children languish for long periods prior to adoption or reunification with their birth family. A federal district court order, affirmed by the Court of Appeals, required the state agency to reduce caseloads, investigate abuse and neglect claims, and increase capacity for foster care placements. M.D. v. Abbott
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Received class certification approval in a case against the State of Arizona for failing to investigate reports of abuse and neglect in foster care, to provide health services to the children, and to recruit sufficient foster home placements. The Court of Appeals affirmed class certification and the case is back at district court for trial. B.K. v. McKay Since its filing the case has received press coverage in The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and the Wall Street Journal.
Click here to see the original grant, including the six-month and year-end reports.
Reached a settlement in a class action suit brought against the State of Missouri with respect to limiting the dispensing of psychotropic drugs to children in foster care. The settlement, which was the first of its kind, requires medication monitoring, secondary review of medications by psychiatrists, and staff training. M.B. v. Tidball Extensive media coverage occurred in nearly 50 publications, including a story by the Associated Press.
“Children’s Rights is grateful to the Barbara McDowell Foundation for providing support that led to serious oversight improvements to protect kid’s health and safety,” said Sandy Santana, Executive Director.
Click here to see the original grant, including the six-month and year-end reports.