Indy Standard

Gov. Eric Holcomb recently ceremonially signed into law State Rep. Ryan Lauer's (R-Columbus) bill, which introduces new problem-solving courts in Indiana aimed at assisting abused or neglected children up to age 3 and their families.

Lauer, a member of the House Family, Children and Human Affairs Committee, explained that this law, effective since July 1, establishes Safe Baby Courts to manage child in need of services (CHINS) cases. He noted that CHINS cases can take several months or longer to resolve, potentially leaving children in foster care for extended periods.

"When dealing with a CHINS case, time is always of the essence to return them to their guardians or find a new home," Lauer said. "Through this new law, Indiana's courts have a new tool to expedite the process while focusing more on these families to help get them back on track."

According to Court Appointed Special Advocates, about one-third of children in foster care nationally are younger than 5 years old, and babies are the least likely among all age groups to exit foster care within six months.

Lauer emphasized that Safe Baby Courts could expedite proceedings and connect families with community services and support systems. This approach aims to mitigate the long-term effects of prolonged foster care stays and prevent recurrent abuse or neglect.

He also mentioned that Indiana already has various problem-solving courts such as drug court and mental health court.

For more information on House Enrolled Act 1101, visit iga.in.gov.

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State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus) represents House District 59,

which includes a portion of Bartholomew County.

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