Press Room

Protections for Youth in Foster Care Act signed into law today

Friday, April 8 2011

Senator Newell’s bill helps protect children from identity theft

Senator Newell spoke at the press conference following the signing of the Protections for Youth in Foster Care Act today

DENVER—Today, Governor John Hickenlooper signed the Protections for Youth in Foster Care Act (Senate Bill 120), a bill that will provide children in foster care with the necessary tools to prevent identity theft. Senate Bill 120 also enacts a list of rights that youths in foster care should enjoy, including the right to participate in extracurricular activities. Senate Bill 120 was sponsored by Senator Linda Newell (D-Littleton) and Representative John Kefalas (D-Fort Collins).

Following the bill signing, Senator Newell and Representative Kefalas were joined by members of the Mile High United Way “Bridging the Gap” group at a press conference in the Capitol’s west foyer to celebrate the bill becoming law. Bridging the Gap provides foster youth with financial educational classes, matched savings accounts, assistance with finding affordable housing, employment and scholarships for college, peer networking and adult partner coaching.

Senator Newell offered the following comment on the signing of the Protections for Youth in Foster Care Act by Governor Hickenlooper:

“Today we took a big step in support of children in foster care. These kids face significant challenges. The Protections for Youth in Foster Care Act will help youth in foster care move toward independence and become self-sufficient citizens. I’m proud to have helped make this change, and I’m glad Governor Hickenlooper signed it into law today.”

Children in foster care are at significantly increased risk of identity theft. Senate Bill 120 will help protect the identities of children in foster care and put in place guidelines for professionals who provide assistance in clearing up their credit reports.

The bill also includes provisions to expand the ability of youth in foster care to take part in extracurricular activities. Children in foster care are often prevented from participating in activities that other youth traditionally enjoy, and the bill aims to ensure access to activities that build necessary social skills and help youth develop into healthy, productive adults.