Rubén Hinojosa: “The Keeping Children and Families Safe Act of 2003, or as it is better known, CAPTA, is a small program that fills an…”

“The Keeping Children and Families Safe Act of 2003, or as it is better known, CAPTA, is a small program that fills an important role in the Federal response to child abuse by focusing on prevention and treatment. Child abuse is a serious public problem, and we must do much more at the Federal level to protect children from abuse and improve the treatment they receive. In 2002 there were almost 900,000 substantiated cases of child abuse and neglect. In 2000 an estimated 1,200 children died as a result of abuse and neglect. The bill before us today will enhance collaboration between child protection systems and the juvenile justice system. Research shows that children who are abused and neglected are more likely to be involved in delinquent and criminal behavior. By fostering linkages between the child protection and juvenile justice systems, the provisions of this bill should lead to better, more appropriate treatment services.”