Right to Representation Act

The Right to Representation Act mandates that states guarantee independent legal counsel to both parents and children involved in child protection cases, such as dependency or adoption proceedings. This requirement applies to any judicial process alleging child abuse or neglect and ensures an attorney-client relationship exists for the duration of the case. The law takes effect on October 1, 2026, and ties federal foster care funding to a state's ability to provide these legal services. Additionally, the bill requires the Government Accountability Office to submit a biennial report on how states are implementing these new representation standards.