Georgia lawmakers are moving forward with several bills this session aimed at improving child welfare services, supporting foster children with autism and related disorders, and strengthening legal protections for victims of abuse.

One of the major proposals would expand a pilot program statewide that currently provides clinical evaluations and support services for foster children with autism. Under the legislation, services could also be extended to children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, reactive attachment disorder, and those prescribed psychotropic medications. Supporters say the program has already shown promise by improving diagnosis, treatment, and placement stability for children in foster care.

Another bill would invalidate non-disclosure agreements in childhood sexual abuse cases, preventing victims from being legally silenced after civil settlements. Backers say the measure would help survivors speak openly about their experiences and could expose patterns of abuse and institutional coverups. The proposal is part of a broader effort to give victims a stronger voice and greater access to justice.

Other measures under consideration would create a framework for expanding Family Justice Centers in Georgia, allowing communities to offer services like legal aid, counseling, medical exams, and law enforcement support in one location for survivors of violence and trafficking. Lawmakers are also reviewing bills to tighten oversight of child welfare spending and to study rising costs within the foster care system after the state recently addressed a major budget shortfall.

Supporters of the legislation say the measures are designed to improve accountability, provide better services for vulnerable children and families, and ensure the child welfare system responds more effectively to growing needs across Georgia.