Child Fatality Review Committee Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Zachary Parker

The Child Fatality Review Committee Amendment Act of 2025 strengthens child welfare oversight by including the Council committee in the Child Fatality Review Committee.

Law L26-0134, Effective from Jun 11, 2026 Published in DC Register Vol 73 and Page 008888

Purpose and Intent

The Child Fatality Review Committee Amendment Act of 2025 (B26-0411) aims to amend the existing Child Fatality Review Committee Establishment Act of 2001. The primary goal of this legislation is to enhance the oversight and effectiveness of the Child Fatality Review Committee by ensuring that the relevant Council committee overseeing the Child and Family Services Agency is permanently included as a member of the committee.

Key Provisions

Committee Composition: The bill proposes a revision to the composition of the Child Fatality Review Committee to include members from the Council of the District of Columbia who have oversight responsibilities for the Child and Family Services Agency.

Terminology Update: The bill updates the terminology in the law by replacing the phrase "human services" with "child and family services" to better reflect the focus of the committee.

Fiscal Impact Statement: The bill adopts the fiscal impact statement from the Budget Director, ensuring that the financial implications of the changes are documented and considered.

Who Would Be Affected

Child Fatality Review Committee: The amendment directly affects the structure and functioning of the Child Fatality Review Committee, which is responsible for reviewing child fatalities to identify trends and recommend policy changes.

Council of the District of Columbia: The inclusion of the relevant oversight committee will enhance the Council's ability to address issues related to child welfare and safety.

Procedural Aspects

Public Hearing: A public hearing on B26-0411 is scheduled for December 4, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in the John A. Wilson Building and virtually via Zoom. This hearing will provide an opportunity for public testimony and input on the bill.

Testimony Registration: Individuals wishing to testify must register by December 2, 2025, and will have three minutes to present their statements. Written testimony is also encouraged and will be included in the official record.

Effective Date: The act will take effect following approval by the Mayor and will remain in effect for no longer than 90 days, as stipulated for emergency acts under the District of Columbia Home Rule Act.

Conclusion

The Child Fatality Review Committee Amendment Act of 2025 seeks to strengthen the oversight of child welfare in the District of Columbia by ensuring that the relevant Council committee is involved in the Child Fatality Review Committee. This legislative change is part of a broader effort to improve public safety and child protection measures in the District.

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