House Passes Bill to Place More of Texas’ Abused Kids in Cottage Homes, Despite Advocates’ Protests

AUSTIN -- A bill that would try to steer more Texas foster children to "cottage homes" won final House approval Monday, despite opposition from many child advocates.Bill author Rep. Four Price, R-Amarillo, said cottage homes are "a good option for the state to have."Under state regulations, they are places where 12 or fewer kids live, with adult caregivers who act as substitutes for parents on the premises at least half or more of the time.Calling the bill unnecessary and unhelpful, though, were leaders of child welfare advocacy groups and a network of local nonprofits that recruit "court appointed special advocates" for foster children.  Continue reading...