Bill > SB449

This bill establishes a comprehensive study on drug abuse among parents in resource families (foster or kinship care families) in Pennsylvania. The legislation creates a Selection and Advisory Council composed of nine members, including representatives from the Governor's office, legislative leadership, and state agencies, who will oversee a research project examining drug abuse prevalence and potential interventions. The study will partner with three county agencies to screen parents in resource families, collect data on drug use types and frequency, and evaluate the effectiveness of mobile technology for caseworkers to track and report potential drug abuse. The research entity will assess the need for mandatory drug screening, explore cost-effective treatment options, and analyze the potential for voluntary drug treatment programs. The study aims to ensure children are placed in safe home environments and will produce quarterly progress reports, with a final comprehensive report to be completed within 24 months of receiving funding. The council members will serve without compensation but will be reimbursed for expenses, and they will be responsible for selecting a research organization, developing study benchmarks, monitoring progress, and providing information to the General Assembly. The bill's ultimate goal is to improve child protective services by identifying and addressing potential drug abuse risks within resource families.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=449