Comprehensive Child Welfare Reform and Accountability Act
of 2023
 

Created by Darren Guay
 

Preamble:
 

In recognition of the urgent need to overhaul the existing child welfare
system, protect the rights of children, and preserve the integrity of the
family unit, the Comprehensive Child Welfare Reform and Accountability
Act of 2023 presents a meticulously crafted and detailed framework for
transformative change. This bill not only addresses the failures and
corruption of the current Child Protective Services (CPS) system but also
sets forth comprehensive guidelines and measures to promote family
preservation, prevent unnecessary removals, and avoid adoption whenever
possible. With a steadfast commitment to justice, transparency, and the
well-being of children, this legislation seeks to create a child welfare system
that values and appreciates the crucial roles of both mothers and fathers in
nurturing and raising their children.
 

Section 1: Abolishing the Current Child Protective Services
(CPS)
1.1 Abolition of CPS:
a) The Comprehensive Child Welfare Reform and Accountability Act of
2023 boldly declares the complete abolition of the current Child Protective
Services (CPS) system. Recognizing the rampant corruption and failures of
the existing system, this bill calls for the establishment of a new
Department of Child Welfare (DCW) that operates under the principles of
transparency, accountability, and the preservation of the family unit.
1.2 Scuttling of Formerly Funded Programs:
a) All programs or initiatives that previously provided funding to the CPS
system shall be immediately terminated. This decisive action ensures that
resources are redirected to the newly established DCW, which shall adhere
to the principles of accountability, transparency, and child-centered care.
1.3 Restitution for Unjust Removals:
a) This bill mandates the immediate return of all children who have been
unjustly removed from their families, especially those cases that were even
slightly questionable. In addition to their return, monetary compensation for
pain and suffering shall be provided to both the child and their family,
acknowledging the immeasurable harm caused by wrongful removals.
 

Section 2: Reforming the Child Welfare System
2.1 Unwavering Accountability and Oversight:
a) Under the Comprehensive Child Welfare Reform and Accountability Act
of 2023, every individual involved in the child welfare process shall be held
fully accountable for their actions. Immunity provisions shall be revoked,
and stringent oversight mechanisms shall be established to ensure
compliance with the law and ethical conduct.
2.2 Avoidance of Removal and Adoption:
a) The utmost importance shall be placed on avoiding unnecessary
removals of children from their families and, whenever possible, avoiding
adoption. Removal and adoption should only be considered as an absolute
last resort when all other options have been exhausted and there is clear
evidence of imminent danger to the child's well-being.
2.3 Clear Definitions and Guidelines:
a) This bill provides precise definitions and guidelines for neglect and
abuse, ensuring consistency and fairness throughout all 50 states. These
definitions shall be based on recognized standards, supported by credible
evidence, and strictly exclude the use of hearsay evidence or
preponderance evidence alone.
2.4 Promotion of the Value of Parents:
a) Recognizing the importance of parental roles, this bill seeks to promote
the value and appreciation of both mothers and fathers in raising and
nurturing their children. Efforts shall be made to support and empower
parents in providing a safe and loving environment for their children,
fostering strong family bonds, and preventing unnecessary disruptions to
the family unit.
 

Section 3: Comprehensive Support Services and Restitution
3.1 Comprehensive Support Services:
a) The Comprehensive Child Welfare Reform and Accountability Act of
2023 mandates the provision of comprehensive support services to families
facing challenges and hardships. These services shall include counseling,
parenting education, mental health resources, substance abuse treatment,
and any other necessary interventions. By equipping families with the
necessary tools and support, we empower them to create a safe and
nurturing environment for their children.
3.2 Restitution for Pain and Suffering:
a) In recognition of the immense physical, emotional, and psychological
harm inflicted upon children and families through wrongful removals, this
bill guarantees monetary compensation for pain and suffering. The amount
of restitution shall be determined based on the severity of the injustice and
the suffering endured.
 

Section 4: Training, Education Standards, and Sunset
Provisions
4.1 Training and Education Standards:
a) The Department of Child Welfare (DCW) shall establish rigorous training
programs for all professionals involved in the child welfare system,
including social workers, investigators, and judges. These programs shall
emphasize best practices, trauma-informed care, cultural competence, and
ethical conduct. Additionally, the DCW shall develop and implement
education standards to ensure that children in the child welfare system
receive a quality education that supports their academic and developmental
needs.
4.2 Sunset Provisions and Ongoing Evaluation:
a) This bill includes sunset provisions, mandating regular assessments of
the new child welfare system. Independent entities shall conduct these
assessments to evaluate the system's effectiveness, efficiency, and
adherence to the principles outlined in this act. Based on the findings,
necessary adjustments and reforms shall be implemented to continuously
enhance the system's ability to protect children, support families, and
promote justice.
 

Conclusion:
 

The Comprehensive Child Welfare Reform and Accountability Act of 2023
stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to protect the rights
and well-being of children, preserve the integrity of the family unit, and
restore faith in the child welfare system. By abolishing the existing CPS
system, establishing clear guidelines and definitions, and prioritizing family
preservation, this legislation sets a new standard for child welfare in our
nation. We urge all members of Congress to recognize the urgency and
necessity of this bill, join forces in its support, and advocate for the swift
passage of this bold and comprehensive legislation. Together, let us ensure
that no child is unjustly separated from their family, that the value of parents
is upheld, and that our child welfare system becomes a beacon of hope
and protection for children and families across the nation.