MADISON, WI (WTAQ) – Ethan’s Law is simply awaiting the governor’s signature to become law. The bill is named after Ethan Hauschultz, a Manitowoc County boy who died under the supervision of his assigned guardians.
“Of course, we’ve had a number of tragic situations in northeast Wisconsin where harm has come to children placed in protective custody. Basically children who needed protective services,” State Senator Andre Jacque told the WTAQ Morning News with Matt and Earl. “In Ethan’s case, it was with a relative who had a history of violent offenses, including very serious child abuse, that he had basically admitted to and had been convicted of…Ethan was placed in the care of somebody who he should not have been.”
Jacque authored the bill, hoping it could provide clarity for those in human services and protection for children who need it. The goal is to place children in proper homes, rather than simply placing them with relatives who may have that questionable past.
“This is basically going to put those clear guidelines in place,” Jacque said. “I think a lot of county human service workers supported [this], as giving them those clear guidelines eliminating a gray area.”
Now, Jacque is already taking the next step in his mission to protect children in Wisconsin. He’s introducing a bill that includes a foster parents bill of rights, something he says more than 20 other states already have.
“The reality is, we do need more foster families to accept placements. You’ve probably seen wherever you go in Northeast Wisconsin, those signs out saying ‘please consider becoming a foster parent’,” Jacque said.
More information about becoming a foster parent is available here.
