H.R. 8997In committee
States would have to provide free lawyers in child welfare cases
Data as of July 11, 2026
HR 8997 requires states to provide free attorneys to parents and children in all abuse, neglect, and foster care cases or lose federal funds.65-second read · 5 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
HR 8997 would require states to guarantee free legal representation for both children and parents in court cases involving child abuse, neglect, foster care, adoption, guardianship, and termination of parental rights. The bill requires a genuine attorney-client relationship, not merely a lawyer present in name only. States must comply starting October 1, 2026, with extra time granted if state legislation is needed to implement the requirement.
Who does it affect?
The bill affects parents at risk of losing custody, children who have been abused or neglected, and state governments that would need to build or expand legal aid systems. Family law attorneys and court systems would also be affected as demand for representation in these cases could increase significantly.
Why does it matter?
Many states currently do not guarantee lawyers for parents in child welfare cases, even when outcomes such as loss of custody or termination of parental rights are at stake. The Government Accountability Office would report to Congress every two years on how well states are carrying out the requirement.
What does it cost, and who pays?
- Tied to federal foster care funds
- States risk losing funds if noncompliant
- Deadline to comply: Oct 1, 2026
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- House committee — You are here
- House vote
- Senate
- President's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
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Official title
Right to Representation Act
- Introduced:
- May 21, 2026
- Latest action:
- May 21, 2026
Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Three steps: where you stand, your script, the call.