Yes, this is responsible legislation, but, just to interject contention, should not government be challenged for failing society in complementing the deficiencies that have lead up to this point? Where are the resources and why does there exist fear in asking for help?
To reduce this to a basic understanding, let's put it this way: If a parent or guardian needs intervention with thier child, the only source is Child Protective Services. This means if, a parent or guardian calls for assistance, they run the risk of having thier child, and even other children, removed form the home, and possible termination of parental rights. Illinois worded this very well. It made it a violation if a parent "did not ask for help".
Will there ever be a balance of initiatives?
In order to penalize, there must exist an avenue of recourse.
Beverly Tran