Advocates for Families Act of 2025

HR 5647, the Advocates for Families Act of 2025, requires states to allow parents, foster parents, or legal guardians of children in child welfare cases to access a family advocate who represents their interests throughout the process. The bill mandates states to establish professional standards for advocates, inform families about their right to an advocate, and report to the federal government on how this right affects child welfare services. It does not require states to fund these advocates but sets requirements for state implementation and transparency. The legislation also directs the federal government to submit regular reports to Congress on the program's implementation and impact.