Legislation and budget proposals to improve outcomes for Native American children and families involved in the child welfare system were recently introduced by Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-Highland). First, AB 1862 was introduced to build capacity among tribal child welfare agencies by funding the Tribally Approved Homes process. Secondly, the Assembly Member authored a budget proposal for the Legal Counsel for Tribes Project.
The California Tribal Families Coalition is sponsoring AB 1862 based on recent tribal requests and key findings of the original California ICWA Compliance Task Force. “The Indian Child Welfare Act is central to our tribal sovereignty and our ability to protect our most vulnerable tribal citizens. As Chairman of the Board of the California Tribal Families Coalition, I support this bill and thank Assemblymember Ramos for his tireless work on behalf of California tribal families” said Chairman Smith of the Pala Band of Mission Indians.
Please use the following materials to learn more and conduct your own advocacy and outreach in support of the Coalition-sponsored legislation:
AB 1862
AB 1862 – Bill Language
AB 1862 – Tribal Support Letter Template
AB 1862 Budget Proposal – Tribal Support Letter Template
Legal Counsel for Tribes Budget Proposal
