Memphis Standard

U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn and Jon Ossoff have introduced the Generate Recordings of All Child protective Interviews Everywhere (GRACIE) Act. The proposed legislation aims to incentivize states to record all Child Protective Services (CPS) interviews with children and adults. This initiative seeks to modernize CPS interview protocols, enhancing the identification and removal of child trafficking victims from dangerous situations.

Senator Blackburn emphasized the importance of giving children a voice, stating, "Children are often silenced by their abusers, and we need to do everything in our power to ensure that does not happen." She believes the GRACIE Act will improve domestic violence reporting and strengthen the foster care system.

Senator Ossoff echoed this sentiment, noting, "We can never do enough to support vulnerable children in Georgia and across the country." He highlighted that this bipartisan bill aims to increase transparency within state child protective agencies and assist states in funding their operations.

Statistics indicate that 37.4% of U.S. children will be interviewed by CPS during their childhood. These initial interviews can be traumatic, underscoring the need for transparency and accountability throughout the process. The GRACIE Act proposes creating a program within the Department of Justice (DOJ) to reward states requiring CPS interview recordings. It includes measures to protect privacy and restrict access only for law enforcement investigations.

The bill has received endorsements from several organizations dedicated to preventing child exploitation, including Street Grace and No Trafficking Zones. Bob Rodgers, CEO of Street Grace, described it as "a crucial step toward ensuring that every child’s voice is heard."

The act aligns with existing DOJ requirements for recording interrogations over nearly a decade while emphasizing similar accountability in child protection services.