Consider This from NPR In Some States, An Unpaid Foster Care Bill Could Mean Parents Lose Their Kids Forever
Jan 9, 2023
Joseph Shapiro, an NPR investigative correspondent, delves into the troubling reality of unpaid foster care bills that can lead to permanent loss of custody for parents. He discusses the heart-wrenching story of the Cunningham family, revealing how financial struggles impact their fight to regain custody of their children. The conversation highlights ethical concerns surrounding these laws, the financial pressures on low-income families, and recent federal calls to abolish such policies to promote family stability and reunification.
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The Cunninghams' Story
- Brandon and Sylvia Cunningham, once irresponsible parents due to addiction, lost custody of their children.
- After recovering and fulfilling court-ordered steps, three children returned, but one remained in foster care due to an unpaid bill.
Foster Care Bills and Parental Rights
- Many impoverished parents face bills for foster care costs.
- In at least 12 states, failure to pay can lead to permanent loss of parental rights.
Foster Care Bills Hinder Reunification
- Impoverished parents often receive foster care bills, a little-known practice.
- Neglect, often linked to poverty, is a common reason for foster care placement, making these bills a barrier to reunification.