Bill Establishing Additional Funding Source for Children’s Trust Fund Passes House, Says Delozier
HARRISBURG – Legislation sponsored by state Rep. Sheryl M. Delozier (R-Cumberland) and Rep. Pam DeLissio (D-Phildelphia/Montgomery), both chairs of the House Children and Youth Committee, to establish another funding source for Pennsylvania’s Children’s Trust Fund (CTF) passed the House today.
“Pennsylvania has taken a proactive approach to fighting child abuse and neglect. As a Legislature, we have prioritized laws and programs that safeguard the rights of our Commonwealth’s children. The state has also invested in prevention programs and improved reporting and investigating procedures over the years.
House Bill 2437 is one aspect of this approach, and I am proud that my colleagues on both sides of the aisle supported it,” said Delozier.
Currently, funds for the CTF are generated by a $10 surcharge on all applications for marriage licenses and divorce complaints. Donations to the CTF can also be designated on state tax returns and other external donations also add to the fund, but in the past 10 years, the CTF has seen a decline in funding. House Bill 2437 would create another stream of funding for the CTF and would allow individuals renewing their vehicle registration or a driver’s license to contribute an optional $5 donation to the CTF. Giving to this fund is not a requirement, but an option provided to Pennsylvanians who want to help.
“Child abuse is life-altering to everyone affected by it, with its negative impacts often being repeated in hard-to-break cycles. Studies have shown that children who are abused or neglected often suffer from mental and health-related outcomes that impact the child and their family. One of the best strategies we have to eliminate child abuse is to create and instill preventative measures, and the dollars in this fund work to do that,” Delozier added.
Questions about this legislation or any other state government issue can be directed Delozier’s office at 717-761-4665.
Representative Sheryl Delozier
88th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives