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5/4/2022 House passes Rep. Casimiro’s bill relating to child abuse in military families
STATE HOUSE – The House today passed Rep. Julie A. Casimiro’s bill (2022-H 6617) which relates to child abuse and neglect in military families.

The bill would require the Department of Children, Youth and Families to determine the military status of the parents of any abused child and report the matter to the appropriate military authorities, including the Military Family Advocacy Program.   

“Child abuse can and does occur within every aspect of our society and sadly, our military is not an exception to this troubling fact.  This bill will ensure that child abusers, even if they are in the military, will be held accountable for their crimes against children and it will make sure that these kids receive the help and support they need after experiencing abuse and trauma,” said Representative Casimiro.

The Family Advocacy Program was established by the Department of Defense to address domestic abuse, child abuse and neglect, and problematic sexual behavior in children and youth. The program is delivered through military services who work in coordination with civilian agencies to prevent abuse, encourage early identification and prompt reporting, promote victim safety and empowerment, and provide appropriate treatment for affected service members and their families.           

The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration where Sen. Alana M. DiMario (D-Dist. 36, Narragansett, North Kingstown) has introduced the legislation (2022-S 2105).  Senator DiMario’s bill is scheduled for a vote in the Senate on Thursday.



For more information, contact:
Andrew Caruolo, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-6124