Rep. DeRoche offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 204.

            A resolution to establish a special committee on child protection.

            Whereas, Protecting children is a responsibility of paramount importance for any society. These vulnerable individuals are often at the greatest risk of harm. While some of these risks are obvious, many more are not; and

            Whereas, From time to time, a heartbreaking incident occurs that calls into question the impact and effectiveness of programs dedicated to protecting children in difficult circumstances. One such recent tragedy has served to dramatize the multiple factors that must be in place to protect children from harm; and

            Whereas, In the aftermath of any tragedy involving children who have lived within the network of services designed to protect them, there are often many accusations and uncertainties as to the cause and what can be done to implement better practices and policies. Clearly, the seriousness of the issue of child protection demands thorough study of all options available to safeguard children who cannot possibly do so themselves; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That there be created a special committee on child protection to study our child protection network. The committee shall work to identify any and all possible alterations of policy and practices that can strengthen child protection efforts. The special committee on child protection shall consist of 5 members appointed in the same manner as standing committees of the House are appointed and shall report its findings and recommendations to the full House of Representatives by July 1, 2006.