Family Court & Child WelfareInvestigationsLaw, Policy & the FamilyLegislationMarylandMaryland Child Welfare & Foster CareProject STEWARDSHIPProject SYSTEM
Maryland Just Created an Independent Watchdog for Foster Kids. Here’s What It Actually Does.
Maryland has passed Kanaiyah’s Law, creating an independent child welfare ombudsman, banning unlicensed foster placements, and tightening guardianship requirements. For families navigating the system, the changes are concrete — and long overdue.
The Moral Economy of Neglect: How Maryland’s “Compassionate Governance” Betrays Its Foster Children
Maryland's foster-care system is under scrutiny following the death of Kanaiyah Ward, highlighting systemic failures and racial inequities. An audit revealed neglect and unsafe placements, particularly affecting Black children, while the state's reliance…