First Steps reauthorization a victory for kids

Governor McMaster formally signed the reauthorization of South Carolina First Steps, a victory for the children of the Palmetto State. The seven-year reauthorization of First Steps to School Readiness was the culmination of a multiple-year effort by advocates and members of the statehouse to reauthorize and improve the agency supporting a range of early childhood services to all counties in the state.

“This bill passed the General Assembly nearly unanimously – a clear indication that our legislators continue to support and prioritize child outcomes,” said Institute for Child Success (ICS) Vice President Bryan Boroughs. “ICS has been pleased to work alongside dedicated partners across the state to support these essential services.”

Several other legislative developments this session have focused on the children of the state including S 805, creating the Department of Children’s Advocacy, which passed through the House unanimously earlier this week and now heads to the Governor’s desk for his signature. The office will ensure that children receive adequate care and protection from programs and services offered by the state, including DSS, the Department of Mental Health, and others.

“We are heartened by these victories for the children of South Carolina,” said ICS President Jamie Moon. “South Carolina has been steadily improving on several indicators of child well-being, including the Annie E. Casey Foundation rankings. With cross-sector reforms and partnerships, we believe the state will continue its upward journey.”