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NAACP and social workers call for state-funded hair care for children in custody
Summary
Witnesses including the NAACP and DCF social workers urged a line item for hair care and products for children in state custody, citing impacts on self-esteem, hygiene-related skin issues, and disproportionate effects on Black children and youth in transracial placements.
Representatives of the NAACP, DCF social workers and advocates asked the committee to advance H.4216, a bill that would establish funding and a framework to provide hair-care services and products to children in state custody.
Kokyanna Fuller, representing the NAACP, said hair is part of identity and mental health and that the absence of hair-care resources contributes to bullying, stigmatization and potential trafficking vulnerability for young people in foster care, group homes and detention settings.
DCF staff and supervisors described cases in which lack of hair care contributed to medical conditions and low self-esteem; one witness said a child with eczema narrowly avoided total hair loss only after the department secured funds for hair care. Speakers emphasized that Black children and those in transracial placements are disproportionately affected because caregivers and group settings often lack knowledge or resources to manage textured hair.
Supporters asked for a dedicated line item so children in any state custody setting can receive culturally competent hair-care services and products. They asked the committee to consider operational guidance and training for caregivers and staff to ensure appropriate grooming and hygiene supports across settings.
No fiscal estimate was provided during oral testimony; speakers said they would submit written materials to quantify needs and costs.
