Public Policy

CHILD First Agenda

New York has the opportunity to lead with compassion, accountability, and hope for children who have experienced abuse.
The New York State Children’s Alliance is committed to advocating for Child Advocacy Centers and Multidisciplinary Teams—
and for the children and families they serve—by advancing policies that strengthen coordinated, trauma-informed systems
where children are believed, supported, and able to heal. Our CHILD First Agenda focuses on closing gaps in child protection,
sustainably funding proven solutions, and ensuring meaningful access to justice and accountability. By putting children first,
New York can create a future where every child, in every community, has the opportunity to heal, find their voice, and move
forward with dignity and support.

Close gaps in child protection

• Address loopholes and shortcomings in the law that make it harder to prosecute offenders
• Create new protections for children and families to reduce the likelihood of victimization
• Remove barriers to disclosure and reporting so that victims can more easily receive the help they need

Healthily fund CACs and MDTs

• Fully and adequately fund CACs so that they may continue providing critical services to children and families
• Protect access to funding sources and promote transparency throughout the grant process
• Increase resiliency and promote program growth to improve the MDT model and avoid CAC closures

Invest in prevention and education

• Raise awareness of the widespread issue of child abuse
• Educate the public on best practices for identifying, treating, and reporting abuse
• Support both new and existing programs to protect children and reduce risk factors that lead to victimization

Level the playing field for victims

• Support victims at every stage of the legal process
• Strengthen protective orders to preserve sensitive information and the safety of victims
• Balance the rights of victims and defendants so that justice may be served in each and every case

Deliver equitable child welfare resources

• Give equal voice to all CACs regardless of size, budget, structure, etc.
• Amend funding formulas to accurately reflect the growing and changing needs of different CACs
• Grant CACs access to the same basic opportunities to create a standard statewide level of care

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