On the recordSeptember 21, 2011
I rise today to discuss my strong support for the Child and Family Services Improvement and Innovation Act that the Finance Committee approved yesterday. This is an important bipartisan and bicameral bill that deserves to pass and become law. I am proud to be a cosponsor and I congratulate Chairman Baucus and Ranking Member Hatch for their leadership on the important issue of adoption and prevention services for vulnerable children. Over the years, I have been proud of the Finance Committee's bipartisan work to encourage adoption and improve child welfare services for our most vulnerable children, those who are at risk of abuse and neglect in their own homes. It is inspiring to know that, even now, members can come together to work on such critical issues. Bipartisan bills like this one may not attract headlines, but the policies and programs can change the lives of children and families. This package continues previous investments in children and families, and it makes improvements on what lessons have been learned over the past 5 years. I am proud that the legislation continues to invest in the court improvement program that is making such a difference in West Virginia, and the country. Our judges are an essential partnership in the child welfare system because they decide when a child can return home safely or if adoption is the better permanency plan for a child. It is a difficult decision to make.…
