Astoria, Ore. — The Oregon Senate has passed a bill that significantly enhances the rights of foster children in the state, a move seen as a major step forward in child welfare reform. The legislation, approved on Monday morning, builds upon the Oregon Foster Children’s Bill of Rights, which was first enacted in 2013 to protect key rights such as safety, education, and visitation.
This new bill introduces several important provisions aimed at improving the overall well-being and dignity of foster children. Among the most notable changes is the formal recognition of foster children’s freedom of religion or non-religion. Under the new law, foster children will have the right to decline participation in religious activities that conflict with their personal beliefs—an expansion of their autonomy that has never been explicitly addressed before.
Another key element of the bill is the guarantee of legal representation for foster children during law enforcement or abuse investigations. This provision ensures that children will have legal support during what can be a stressful and complex process, a right not previously codified in Oregon’s foster care system.
The legislation also mandates that foster children be allowed to transport their personal belongings in proper luggage, such as a suitcase, when moving between foster homes. This addresses a gap in the previous laws, which did not specifically address the transportation of personal items, a basic need for children undergoing frequent transitions.
For older foster children, particularly those aged 14 and older, the bill requires that they receive written information on critical life skills and legal rights within 60 days of placement in a child care facility. This guidance will cover a range of important topics, from opening a bank account and obtaining a driver’s license to understanding medical and mental health care rights and eligibility for tuition and fee waivers in Oregon.
Perhaps one of the most meaningful provisions of the bill is its emphasis on sibling relationships. The bill affirms that foster children have a right to maintain contact with their siblings, which can only be restricted by a court order if necessary for safety reasons. Foster children would also be notified of significant life events, such as births or relocations, unless a court order limits such notifications.
In a written statement, the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) organization commended the legislation, calling it a “crucial step in safeguarding the dignity of children and youth in foster care.” CASA emphasized the importance of allowing children access to personal belongings during transitions, which can provide a sense of comfort and connection in an otherwise tumultuous time.
To ensure that foster children are fully aware of their rights, the bill stipulates that an age-appropriate rights document must be provided to children within 60 days of placement in a child care facility. In addition, all foster homes and child care agencies will be required to prominently display these rights in accessible areas for children, caregivers, and caseworkers.
The bill’s passage marks a significant shift toward a more supportive and empowering foster care system, one that aims to provide children not only with safety and security but with the tools and rights they need to thrive. By recognizing the voices and autonomy of foster children, Oregon is setting a new standard for child welfare across the state.
