Native American children accounted for nearly 74% of the state's foster care system in June 2023, despite accounting for only 13% of the state’s overall child population
The bill would establish an annual council of stakeholders from across state government and the child welfare system to discuss matters of Indian child welfare.
The Department of Social Services told lawmakers Jan. 16 that it would not be asking the Legislature for funds related to addressing the disproportionate rate of Native American children placed
The response came after Rep. Linda Duba, D-Sioux Falls, questioned Secretary Matt Althoff about reporting raised by the Argus Leader and South Dakota Searchlight.
DSS will not ask for funding related to enhancing kinship care in South Dakota yahoo.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from yahoo.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.