Panel advances child‑welfare reform to expand GAL oversight and shared discovery

Representative Lisonbee presented the second substitute of HB 372, describing multiple changes intended to increase transparency and balance in child‑welfare proceedings: expanded oversight for the Guardian ad Litem (GAL) office, rules to provide discovery to defense counsel when GALs or the Division of Child and Family Services use evidence, and an expressed‑interest standard for children 8 and older (while preserving best‑interest language for younger children).

Sponsor said the changes responded to audit findings and stakeholder input and are intended to protect children while preserving due process. "She received her children back and is now a $150,000 poorer," the sponsor recounted of a parent who regained custody after extended litigation and expense, urging checks and balances in the system.

Supporters including parent advocates, parental‑defense attorneys and some family‑court stakeholders testified in favor. The Guardian ad Litem office submitted a memorandum of concern (per committee discussion), and Representative Miller said the substitute was a substantial change and recorded a 'no' vote on the floor motion. After debate and public comment the committee adopted the second substitute and voted 9–1 to favorably recommend the bill to the House floor.

Next steps: HB 372 moves to the House calendar; sponsors committed to continued stakeholder meetings before floor action.