WASHINGTON, September 25, 2018—In a triumph for parents and children who have been the victims of family violence, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a concurrent resolution urging state courts to determine family violence claims and risks to children before considering other ‘best interest’ factors. The resolution also encourages states to ensure that courts rely only on admissible evidence and qualified experts, and to adopt qualification standards for third-party appointees. It affirms that Congress is prepared to use its oversight authority to protect at-risk children. 

H. Con. Res. 72 is a child safety resolution that will give states guidance to ensure that child safety is the first priority in our courts; family violence matters should be resolved before assessing best interest of the child; evidence from court and paid officials will only be accepted from those with the proper abuse and trauma training; and there will be oversight hearings to ensure family court practices are safe for children. 

See the full resolution text here. 

Read the full press release here.

This is a major step forward for child safety in our courts that will help lead to protection and more needed changes from funding to state laws and adherence to those laws.