Advancing Oversight for Youth Residential Treatment Facilities: A Milestone Achievement

We are pleased to report a significant advancement in the realm of youth residential treatment facility oversight, with Florida Representative Greg Steube’s bill gaining crucial momentum in Congress. On July 25, 2024, Representative Greg Steube (R-FL) bill, Promoting Accountability, Reporting, Information Sharing, and Health Act, introduced with Representative Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), successfully advanced out of the Ways and Means Committee. This bill is an integral part of H.R. 9076, the Protecting America’s Children by Strengthening Families Act, and has received unanimous approval, with a 38-0 vote from the Committee.

The Promoting Accountability, Reporting, Information Sharing, and Health Act is a pivotal piece of legislation designed to address the concerning issues of maltreatment and abuse within youth residential treatment centers. These issues were brought to light by a recent Government Accountability Office (GAO) report, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced oversight and better federal guidance. Rep. Steube emphasized the necessity of this bill by stating, “It’s clear better federal guidance and information sharing is needed to root out abuse and keep America’s youth safe.” This legislation aims to improve data collection, information sharing, and oversight of programs receiving federal funding, ensuring that children in these settings are protected and their well-being is prioritized.

The Protecting America’s Children by Strengthening Families Act, which includes the Promoting Accountability Act as a key component, is a major reform of Title IV-B, reauthorizing it for the first time since 2021. This legislation represents the most significant reform since 2008 and comes at a critical time with approximately 369,000 children currently in foster care. By addressing the identified gaps in oversight and support, this Act promises to fortify the child welfare system and enhance the safety and well-being of children in foster care.

This advancement reflects the bipartisan commitment to improving child welfare programs, drawing on policies from 16 different pieces of legislation. The Ways and Means Committee's year-long review has been instrumental in pinpointing areas where these kinds of programs can better serve children and families. NATSAP applauds this progress and looks forward to the continued legislative efforts to ensure that youth residential treatment facilities operate with the highest standards of care and accountability.