SB 253 is a common-sense measure requiring clergy to, just like teachers, police officers, social workers, report suspected child abuse. SB 253 even provides an escape hatch for churches who wish to maintain confidentiality. In the face of the massive pedophilia scandal in the Catholic Church, if you can't trust the clergy, who can you trust? Don't look to Senator Cucinelli. He was one of 18 senators who voted against this bill. The lives of children are at stake.
Under current law, a drug conviction cuts off TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) assistance. SB 240 would allow families to receive TANF if they have no other charges, comply with court orders, and are in a drug rehabilitation program. This law is already in effect for food stamps. Children of drug addicts didn't choose their fate, and drug addicts who try to reform themselves shouldn't be shunned from TANF. The lives of children are at stake.
Answer me this, Senator Cucinelli, and the other Republicans who dare not help the children: why?