Public Comment on Foster Care Placement Requirements and the Protection of Vulnerable Children

This joint public comment, submitted by The National Catholic Bioethics Center, the National Catholic Partnership on Disability, the Catholic Medical Association, and the National Association of Catholic Nurses, USA, responds to a proposed HHS rule concerning foster care placement requirements under Titles IV-E and IV-B. The comment supports rescinding prior federal requirements related to designated placements for LGBTQI+ children, arguing that all children in foster care deserve safe, appropriate, whole-person care that protects their dignity, health, privacy, and wellbeing. It also emphasizes the need to protect vulnerable children, including those with disabilities, while safeguarding the conscience and religious liberty rights of faith-based foster care providers and professionals.