Barbara Kennelly: “I agree with the author of the amendment that the current child welfare system sometimes errs on the side of the parent…”

“I agree with the author of the amendment that the current child welfare system sometimes errs on the side of the parent without significant regard for a child's safety. Obviously, that is one of the reasons why the gentleman from Michigan [Mr. Camp] and I did introduce this bill. However, I feel that the legislation before us makes it clear that a child's safety has to be the paramount concern, and it requires States to move more quickly in finding permanent homes for children. But if the current system sometimes overemphasizes family reunification, the Tiahrt amendment would swing, I feel, the pendulum too far the other way by not giving States enough opportunity to restore families. However, as we have talked today, I really look forward to working with the gentleman from Kansas [Mr. Tiahrt] and with the gentleman from Michigan [Mr. Camp] to see if we can resolve this. I understand that he has these concerns, and I think it is very important that we look at them, but I do not think today is the time. I thank the gentleman from Kansas for his consideration.”