On February 22, 2024, the Biden Administration announced a new Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that would update the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis Reporting System to increase data collection on American Indian/Alaska Native children’s status and experiences.
“Over the years, tribal leaders have consistently advocated for ICWA-related data to be included in AFCARS and this rule is a reflection of that advocacy,” said Acting ACF Assistant Secretary, Jeff Hild in the release. “Gathering this data would help us better understand the experiences of Native children and families with state child welfare systems. Developing impactful policies that support family preservation and the inclusion of cultural identity for American Indian/Alaska Native children is a top priority for this Administration.”
Comments are due by April 23, 2024.
