From the Desk
of the Executive Director:  

End of Legislative Session: Beginning of Summer

Have you caught the excitement of school summer recess yet? Our kids, biological and foster, are feeling it. I myself am almost over that 'drag to the end of the year' time and ready to pounce on the freedom of summer!  Even if that freedom is mostly a state of mind!

Fortunately, most change is good!

Social Services was spared severe budget cuts in this legislature. In fact, DHS will see a 4% overall increase in appropriations! None of that will go to TFC; however, it will support many of the families we serve through food stamps, summer opportunities for youth, and other programs that help our kids.

HB 1741 is on the way to Governor Henry for his signature. This is our bill removing the requirement for Court approval of physician recommendations requarding our youth. The new regulations go into effect on November 1.

HB 3258, privatization of DHS child welfare services, was changed to an interim study. The study will be conducted by Rep. Ron Peters and promises to be an exciting exchange of ideas, questions, propositions, and other information as we move to the 2011 Session....which by the way follows November elections and will bring new members and new leaders to the Legislature.

And then there is summer for us and our families. I know we will remain busy with OTFCA business, finances, research and the myriad of other responsibilities (and unexpected events!) that are here for us. I do hope you will take some time for yourself and those whom you love this summer. We must replenish ourselves. We owe some of our 'best self' to those we love!

Have a safe, healthy, and glorious season!