For Immediate Release
December 12, 2007
Contact: Joe Sterns
717-787-5708
(Cell) 717-497-0806
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Folmer's Bill Strengthening Rights of Foster Parents and Foster Children Heads to Rendell's Desk for Signature

Measure will also save PA $300,000,000 in federal money

HARRISBURG (Dec. 12, 2007) – The House today unanimously passed Sen. Mike "Citizen Mike" Folmer's (R-Lebanon) legislation giving foster parents the right to be heard at court hearings regarding the future of children under their care.

The measure also provides that a court must find out the views of a foster child regarding placement, in a manner appropriate to the child’s age and maturity.

"Ultimately, this bill will help ensure that the best scenario for children is achieved," said Folmer.

Folmer's legislation brings the Commonwealth into compliance with the federal Child and Family Services Improvement Act prior to the deadline of January 1, 2008, thus saving the Commonwealth $300,000,000.

The legislation now heads to Gov. Ed Rendell for a signature.