“The true character of a society is revealed in how it treats its children”
NELSON MANDELA
Let's Make
New York State
Better for All of Us
The New York State Citizen Review Panels for Child Protective Services (the Panels) examine the policies, procedures, and practices of the State and social services districts and, where appropriate, specific cases. The Panels evaluate the extent to which the agencies are effectively discharging their child protection responsibilities.
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Panel members, appointed by the Governor or the New York State Legislature, are volunteers with a breadth of experience and knowledge in child welfare practice, policy, law, social work, education, and technology, among other areas.
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The Panels also advocate for legislation that can have a positive impact on child welfare services in NYS. The Panels are active on social media platforms, including Facebook and X, to raise awareness of the issues surrounding child protective services.
NYS Citizen Review Panels' 2024 Recommendations
For more than two centuries, advocates in New York State have fought for the health of families and the safety of children. That collective voice has shifted perspectives over the years and has not always been unanimous. At this moment, it is a strong, unified voice with two key messages:
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Families need direct resources and support to prevent unnecessary CPS involvement.
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The state must reduce excessive family surveillance, especially in marginalized communities.
The 2024 Citizen Review Panels’ recommendations focus on systemic reforms to ensure families are supported, not policed. Despite past commitments to reducing child poverty and reforming child welfare, progress remains slow. With most CPS reports unfounded and disproportionately affecting Black and Brown families, urgent action is needed. While New York has piloted promising programs, they remain too limited. The Panels urge the state to expand proven solutions now, shift resources to preventive, community-based support, strengthen legal protections for parents, and ensure poverty is not mistaken for neglect, while also addressing vacant Panel positions to maintain accountability. With strong leadership and a commitment to change, New York has the opportunity to create a system that truly protects and supports families.​​
Objectives
1
Reduce CPS bias by ensuring poverty is not mistaken for neglect.
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Eliminate harmful practices, including anonymous reporting and school-based CPS interviews.
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Limit unnecessary investigations by expanding community support.
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Prevent unnecessary family separations by prioritizing financial and community-based support.
Recommendations Supported By:
The 17 organizations below join the Citizen Review Panels in issuing their recommendations for 2024, urging a focus on preventing foster care placements and ending the surveillance of families.
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Click on the links below to learn more about each organization.
