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January 2024 Policy Updates

Tuesday January 9, 2024

NACC Supports Expanding Child Tax Credit

NACC joined hundreds of organizations in signing a letter asking Congress to expand the Child Tax Credit to address increasing child poverty rates.

Counsel for Kids Legislative Updates 

New Hampshire considered (retained) House Bill 535 (2023) during a closed interim Children and Family Law Committee session on October 31. As amended, it requires the appointment of legal counsel for children placed in institutions or group homes and permits judges to appoint attorneys to any child in child protection court proceedings. The committee made an “ought to pass with amendment” recommendation to the House. On January 3, the House floor adopted the recommendation. The bill’s next stop is House finance. Children and Family Law Committee chairs co-authored an op-ed endorsing the expansion of children’s access to legal counsel in child protection court proceedings. Companion Senate Bill 463 was introduced on January 3. 

On December 5, Florida interim House Children, Families, and Seniors subcommittee considered House Bill 185 (2024) that would revise Florida law to eliminate special needs categories of youth guaranteed legal representation and restrict judicial discretion to appoint legal counsel. Members of Foster Fairness and others testified in the public hearing. NACC submitted this letter of opposition.   

Recent NACC News

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  • April 2024 Policy Updates

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    Three State Legislatures Consider Client Directed Model of Representation Iowa HF 2580 requires the appointment of legal counsel for children ten and older and a GAL attorney for children under ten. The...

  • Call for Nominations: 2024 Promoting Excellence Awards

    March 29, 2024

    Nominations Due May 31, 2024 Mission The mission of the National Association of Counsel for Children advances children’s and parents’ rights by supporting a diverse, inclusive community of child welfare...

  • March 2024 Policy Updates

    March 7, 2024

    Iowa Joins Trend of States Moving Toward Client-Directed Legal Representation On February 8, the Iowa judiciary subcommittee held a public hearing to consider House File 2209, which would require the appointment...