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Committee hears bill to notify military family advocacy programs when children are abuse/neglect subjects
Summary
Representative Matt Ruby introduced House Bill 1338 to require human service zones to determine whether a person involved in a child abuse or neglect allegation is a military-affiliated individual, and to notify the nearest military installation’s Family Advocacy Program if so.
Representative Matt Ruby introduced House Bill 1338 to the North Dakota House Human Services Committee, saying the bill would require the Department of Health and Human Services—practically implemented by human service zones—to determine whether an individual involved in a child abuse or neglect allegation is a military member and, if so, to notify the nearest military installation’s Family Advocacy Program.
The bill’s chief sponsor, Representative Matt Ruby, said the purpose is victim support, not to shield offenders: “I assure you it's not. This is about trying to get help for the victims,” he told the committee.
Michelle Richards, Midwest regional liaison for the Department of Defense State Liaison Office, told the committee the Department of Defense supports the proposal. “This bill is a victim advocacy measure to protect…
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