TITLE: Recognizing February 7, 2017, as Child Protection and Home Visiting Day.

SUMMARY: Recognizing February 7, 2017, as Child Protection and Home Visiting Day.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to join Texans from across the state in observing February 7, 2017, as Child Protection and Home Visiting Day at the State Capitol; and WHEREAS, Child abuse is a serious problem in Texas; in 2015 alone, there were more than 270,000 reports of abuse and neglect, with more than 66,000 children confirmed as victims; in addition, 171 children died as a result of abuse and neglect; and WHEREAS, Child abuse and neglect carry significant consequences, including mental illness, substance abuse, developmental delays, academic underachievement, teen pregnancy, and criminal activity; the monetary costs of these problems and lost productivity are estimated to exceed $14 billion in Texas each year; and WHEREAS, There are many outstanding organizations committed to battling child abuse and neglect across the state, including the Child Protection Round Table and the Home Visiting Consortium; and WHEREAS, Successfully defending children from abuse and neglect depends on investments in evidence-based prevention from all sources; it is also vital that citizens everywhere support and encourage parents and caregivers to raise children in a safe and nurturing environment; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th Legislature, hereby encourage all citizens and officials to advocate for the safety of children and commend all who are participating in Child Protection and Home Visiting Day at the State Capitol; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor of this important occasion. Perry President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 7, 2017.