John Rice Carter: “I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4843, the Infant Plan of Safe Care…”

“I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4843, the Infant Plan of Safe Care Improvement Act, because when newborn infants are tragically affected by illegal substance abuse, they deserve the best possible care and treatment. The Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act, which was enacted in 1974, set the groundwork for Federal coordination in addressing the issues of neglect and child abuse that is present in our country. H.R. 4843 builds on that by updating and improving existing laws to ensure that States are utilizing Federal dollars in a safe and effective way in providing care for children who suffer from illegal substance abuse, withdrawal symptoms, or fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Under this bill, infants who are born with having had exposure to illegal substances will have strengthened protections through improved safe care plans and best practices. As a lifelong pharmacist and healthcare professional, I have seen firsthand families as they struggle to provide the care that is needed by infants who suffer from these conditions. I commend Congressman Barletta and the Committee on Education and the Workforce for their leadership on this important legislation, and I encourage my colleagues to support this bill so we can care for precious newborn infants across the country.”