Our Testimony at Congressional Hearing on Parental Rights Protection Act
Last week, I had the honor of testifying before the House Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties regarding the proposed Parental Rights Protection Act. This legislation represents a critical step forward in protecting families from government overreach.
The Proposed Legislation
The Parental Rights Protection Act would:
- Establish a federal standard requiring “clear and convincing evidence” before removing children from their parents
- Guarantee legal representation for parents in all child welfare proceedings
- Create mandatory timelines for hearings and case resolution
- Require states to provide due process protections comparable to criminal proceedings
- Establish an oversight mechanism for state child welfare systems
Our Testimony
I presented three main arguments in support of the legislation:
1. Current Standards Are Inadequate
We demonstrated how the current patchwork of state laws creates inconsistent protections, with some states requiring only “preponderance of evidence” (51% certainty) to remove children from their homes. This is the same standard used in minor civil disputes, not for decisions that fundamentally alter families.
2. Federal Intervention Is Necessary
State-by-state reform has proven too slow and inconsistent. Federal standards are needed to ensure all American families receive baseline protections, just as we have federal standards for criminal proceedings.
3. Economic and Social Benefits
We presented data showing that:
- Preserving families when safe to do so costs 75% less than foster care
- Children who remain with their families have better long-term outcomes
- Fewer traumatic separations reduce societal costs in healthcare, education, and criminal justice
Response from Committee Members
The testimony was well-received across party lines. Key moments included:
Rep. Johnson (R-OH): “This is not a partisan issue. Every parent should have these basic protections.”
Rep. Garcia (D-CA): “The data you’ve presented makes a compelling case for federal action. We cannot continue to allow such disparate treatment of families.”
Rep. Williams (R-TX): “While I’m generally cautious about federal mandates, the constitutional issues you’ve raised regarding due process are undeniable.”
What’s Next
The hearing was an important first step, but much work remains:
Immediate Actions
- The bill will be marked up by the full Judiciary Committee next month
- We’re working with congressional staff to refine language and address concerns
- Building bipartisan support through targeted advocacy
How You Can Help
- Contact Your Representatives: Urge them to support the Parental Rights Protection Act
- Share Your Story: Personal testimonies are powerful tools for change
- Spread Awareness: Help others understand why this legislation matters
Looking Forward
This hearing represents years of advocacy work coming to fruition. While we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to seeing this legislation through to passage and implementation.
The constitutional right to family integrity is too important to be left to chance or to vary wildly by zip code. Federal protections are not just warranted—they are essential.
Watch the full hearing testimony and read our complete written submission at justiceformamilies.org/congressional-testimony
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