Perpetuating the Impermanence of Foster Children: A Critical Analysis of Efforts to Reform the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children

Abstract:     
This article presents a critical analysis of recent efforts to reform the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children and proposes substantive changes to improve the interstate placement of foster children. First, the article presents a brief overview of the Compact, including an analysis of the major problems that the uniform law currently poses to foster children. Second, the article analyzes current efforts to reform the statute on both a state and federal level. Third, the article argues that these efforts do not address the permanency needs of foster children because they fail to alter the status quo in any meaningful way, preserving the elements of the current system -- untimely home studies, poor decision-making and inadequate review procedures -- that are harming children. Finally, the article will propose substantive changes to the process of making interstate placement decisions that will honor the best interests of children.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 32

Keywords: children, foster care, interstate placement

Accepted Paper Series