Children Amendment Act 2022

What this bill does

This bill replaces the current Child Care Placement Board with a new Children In-Care Advisory Council that has broader responsibilities. The new council will have more duties including advocating for children in care, monitoring their progress, and ensuring their voices are heard through a special committee.

If passed (voted YES)

• A new Children In-Care Advisory Council will be created with expanded powers to advise the Minister, advocate for children, and review how government policies affect children in care
• Children in care will get a direct voice through mandatory forums where they can speak about issues affecting their education, safety, and well-being
• The council must publish annual reports on the state of children in care in Bermuda, increasing transparency and public accountability

If rejected (voted NO)

• The current Child Care Placement Board system continues with its existing limited responsibilities
• No formal mechanism is created for children in care to directly share their views and concerns
• No requirement for annual public reporting on the conditions and progress of children in Bermuda's care system

Who it affects

This primarily affects children currently in Bermuda's care system (those with care orders) and the professionals who work with them. It also impacts taxpayers who fund these services and the broader community interested in child welfare oversight.