Indianapolis, In. — The House of Representatives has supported Republican state representative from Batesville Cindy Ziemke’s legislation to better protect Hoosier children from abuse.
In 2016, the Indiana Department of Child Services reported 59 child deaths resulting from abuse or neglect. Currently, DCS files an annual report with information about the number of child deaths caused by neglect or abuse, but lacks information about the circumstances surrounding it.
“This startlingly high number of child deaths is unacceptable and we currently do not have pertinent information to combat the issue,” Ziemke said. “This simple, but imperative legislation would ensure the state keeps a more detailed summary of events surrounding child fatalities. This would help DCS and law enforcement better approach these situations and protect children.”
According to Ziemke, the report would include the risk factors surrounding the child’s situation, demographic information and if the death occurred while the child was in foster care or after the child was returned to their biological parents.
Due to an added amendment in the House, the bill now heads back to the Senate before further action. For more information on Senate Bill 170, click here.
