Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Florida (Mrs. Cherfilus-McCormick). Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3058, the Recruiting Families Using Data Act, introduced by Representative Dan Kildee from the great State of Michigan. I am proud to be an original cosponsor of this legislation because we know all too well that protecting America's foster children starts by recruiting and retaining the best foster families to provide safe and loving homes. {time} 1515 Mr. Speaker, I am a strong believer that we measure what we value. This bill takes a critical step to help States better meet the needs of the foster children in their care by replacing antiquated tactics with improved Family Partnership Plans to collect and utilize data to establish recruitment and retention goals while simultaneously tracking progress toward reaching these goals. Even with the limited data that currently exists, we know that there is a severe shortage of foster parents across our country due to a lack of retention. By measuring what we value, we can better understand the root causes of low retention and help those willing to open their homes to those who need it the most. We must never waver as a Congress and as a country to ensure America's foster families have what they need to keep our children safe and loved.”