Senate Bill 973 proposes to rename the Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Board to the Strengthening Families Board. This change is reflected in multiple sections of the statutes, including 15.205, 20.433, 48.651, 48.67, 48.982, and 253.15, where the term "Child abuse and neglect prevention" is replaced with "Strengthening families." The bill aims to maintain the board's current functions, which include awarding grants for programs that promote public awareness and education regarding child abuse and neglect prevention, as well as administering statewide projects related to these issues.

The amendments also ensure that the Strengthening Families Board will continue to play a consultative role in the establishment of standards for child care providers and the operation of child welfare agencies. The bill emphasizes the importance of collaboration with various departments, including the Department of Safety and Professional Services and the Department of Public Instruction, in the development of rules that protect the health, safety, and welfare of children in care. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the focus on family strengthening while preserving the board's essential functions in child welfare.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 15.205(4)(intro.), 15.205, 48.651(1d)(a), 48.651, 48.982(title), 48.982, 48.982(1)(b), 253.15(1)(a), 253.15