[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 72 (Friday, April 28, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H2105]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          DO RIGHT BY OUR KIDS

  (Ms. SCHOLTEN asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. SCHOLTEN. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise in support of the bipartisan 
Protecting Sibling Relationships in Foster Care Act.
  Several students from my district have written in to ask me to 
support this essential piece of legislation. Frankly, they have a 
really good point.
  We know that CPS investigations and removals are traumatizing for 
children. When we keep kids together in foster care, we protect them 
from adverse experiences, provide them with continuity, and help 
expedite the delivery of services to them at a critical time.
  Currently, it is estimated that 53 to 80 percent of these children 
are separated from one or more of their siblings while in care. This 
can't continue.
  There are overwhelming psychological, academic, operational, and 
humanitarian reasons for supporting this legislation. This bill would 
increase the placement of siblings together in foster care and 
encourage the development of programs designed specifically for sibling 
groups.
  It is pragmatic, bipartisan, and, most importantly, good for our 
kids.
  Mr. Speaker, I call on my colleagues to do right by our children and 
support this legislation as well.

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