Court Approves Alabama Child Welfare Settlement To Reduce Institutionalization Of Children With Disabilities

A federal judge has approved a settlement agreement establishing new safeguards to protect Alabama children in foster care with mental health disabilities from unnecessary institutionalization. Alabama entered into a preliminary settlement in February 2026, and on June 18, 2026, the court granted final approval.

Under the approved settlement in A.A., B.B., C.C., et al. v. Nancy T. Buckner, Alabama will implement standardized assessments for children at risk of placement in psychiatric residential treatment facilities (PRTFs) to ensure placement decisions are based on clinical necessity. Following the court's approval, the parties can begin implementing the settlement provisions . . .