ATLANTA – Today Governor Sonny Perdue signed Representative Katie Dempsey’s House Bill 1085 into law. This new law improves Georgia’s foster care system by easing transitions for children in foster care.
“I am so pleased that the Governor signed this important piece of legislation into law today that supports foster children throughout our state,” said Representative Katie Dempsey. “This law will help children as they enter the foster care system, grow into adulthood within the system, and give them the tools needed to become productive adults as they turn 18 and exit the system.”
HB 1085 requires that siblings taken into foster care be placed together unless such placement is contrary to their best interest. The bill further requires an attempt to keep children in the school that they are currently enrolled in when placed in foster care. HB 1085 also requires a transitional living plan personalized for each child within 90 days of their 18th birthday.
A link to the HB 1085 can be found by clicking here.
Editor’s Note: A photo of today’s signing of HB 1085 is attached to this press release for your convenience.
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Representative Katie Dempsey represents the citizens of District 13, which includes portions of Floyd County. She was elected into the House of Representatives in 2006, and currently serves as a Majority Deputy Whip. She is the Vice Chairman for the Higher Education Committee and also serves as a member of the Economic Development & Tourism; Energy, Utilities & Telecommunications; Health & Human Service;, and Rules Committees.