Pack applauds passage of house bill 1123, cautious of House Bill 1102

INDIANAPOLIS – On Jan.19, the Family, Children and Human Affairs committee discussed proposed legislation on topics related to child protection and the regulation of child care facilities. Passing unanimously was House Bill 1123, which would allow the Department of Child Services (DCS) to use a child advocacy center to coordinate a multidisciplinary team to respond to reports of child abuse or neglect.

“The safety of our children is a top-priority,” State Rep. Renee Pack (D-Indianapolis) said. “I have full confidence that House Bill 1123 will improve potential communication gaps between agencies that can result in obstacles during child abuse or neglect cases. At the end of the day, the consequences of any insufficient protocols become the victim's burden to bare. I am extremely happy to see this bill move forward and fully endorse these efforts by DCS to improve their capabilities.”

Also discussed in committee was House Bill 1102, which would allow a child care facility to operate without a license if it registers with the division of family resources. A vote for the bill was withheld and will instead be taken in committee next week. Pack expressed her hesitation about the proposal, citing concerns about the effects of deregulation in regards to child care:

“As a real estate broker, I had to go through the proper channels to obtain and renew my license. Why shouldn't the individuals tasked with caring for our children have to do the same?

“Due to Rep. Dave Heine's (R-Fort Wayne) absence in today's committee, there are lingering questions about his proposed amendment to the bill. Rep. Heine's original bill draft removes far too many parameters that child care facilities should be made to follow. As it is written, there is too much wiggle room allowing facilities to operate without meeting state safety and health requirements. Without adequate time to digest the changes proposed in Rep. Heine's amendment or receive further clarification, our committee cannot move on this legislation.”