House Children and Youth Committee Convenes to Discuss Child Fatality Trends, Community Responses, Says Delozier
HARRISBURG –The House Children and Youth Committee met today for a public hearing to discuss child and adolescent fatality trends and community responses, according to the committee’s majority chair, state Rep. Sheryl M. Delozier (R-Cumberland).
“This meeting was aptly timed, as Child Protective Services released its annual report last week. While the report showed a decline in child abuse deaths from 73 in 2020 to 58 in 2021, the lives lost last year exceeds the number reported in any other year in the last decade. What is also concerning is the increase in ‘near fatalities’ from abuse,” said Delozier. “This meeting fostered very important discussion from testifiers regarding the health and safety of our Commonwealth’s children and highlighted the efforts of community members and organizations who are devoting their lives to this cause.”
All Pennsylvanians are implored to report suspected child abuse or neglect to ChildLine, a 27/4 hotline, by calling 1-800-932-0313.
“We all have a role to play in protecting children from abuse and neglect. Look out for unexplained injuries or bruises, chronic anxiety, flinching or avoidance to being touched, demonstrating abusive behavior, and fear of parents or caregivers among other common signs. Making a difference in just one child’s life can have positive effects for generations to come,” Delozier said.
For questions about activity in the House Children and Youth Committee, or any other state-related matter, please call Delozier’s office at 717-761-4665.