Youth Policy
Legislature approves some fixes to health and human services
Many breathed a sigh of relief when the February forecast showed Minnesota had no new deficit in the current biennium.MORE »
Presumption of joint child custody
An emotional debate that crossed party and gender lines had members characterizing a bill to change the state’s child custody laws as “long overdue,” while others termed it “problematic and would negatively affect children for years to come.”MORE »
'Give Life A Chance' bill passed by the House
Mothers of newborns choosing not to keep their baby could have another legal option of where and when they can safely relinquish the child.MORE »
Parenting percentage bill going to the House floor
Heading to the House floor is a bill that would give fathers greater rights in child custody disputes.MORE »
In school counselors, Minnesota's way behind
We live in an exceptional state. Most of the time, this is a good thing – when it comes to most quality of life measures, Minnesota ranks way up there. It's surprising when we come in last for good things.MORE »
Will legislation to help Minnesota's poorest children win approval?
When lawmakers return to the state Capitol next week, the Children's Defense Fund of Minnesota is hoping a number of positive child-focused provisions will make it through conference committee.
Alex Fitzsimmons, the organization's legislative affairs and advocacy director, says many of the measures have to do with children in the Minnesota Family Investment Program.MORE »
Children's voices unheard in funding debates: Declining resources deprive youngsters of quality pre-K schooling
A new U.S. report released Tuesday says per-child spending in State-funded pre-K programs has declined more than $700 over the past 10 years. As a result, say advocates for early childhood education, African American children are not getting the preparation they need to succeed in later schooling.MORE »
Caring for those who care for others
State health care spending hinges on a couple of state and federal rulings, making the omnibus health and human services finance bill, MORE »
Prone restraints bill advances
School staff with specific training may physically restrain out-of-control students with special needs. The technique, called “prone restraints,” involves holding a student face-down until the situation becomes manageable.MORE »
Deaf treatment options may expand
Children who are deaf, deaf blind or hard-of-hearing and who need mental health treatment would be allowed to reside in facilities outside of Minnesota borders under a bill passed 131-0 by the House.MORE »
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