News Report | May 20, 2020
Iowa DHS To Use Title IV-E Funds To Cover Legal Costs Of Children & Parents In The Child Welfare System
On March 10, 2020, the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) announced that it had established a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the State Public Defender that allows DHS to seek federal reimbursement via Title IV-E foster care funds for the cost of legal representation for children and their parents involved in the child welfare system. Previously, the state provided legal representation only for the child. The goal is to ensure that the legal rights of both children and parents are protected and that their wishes are effectively communicated. The state believes that quality legal representation may prevent unnecessary . . .