HB 4819

Creates the Commission on Strengthening Fathers and Families Act. Provides that the purpose of the Act is to promote the recognition of the importance of the participation of both parents in the lives of their children. Creates the Strengthening Fathers and Families Initiative (Initiative) with the goal of increasing the awareness of the problems created when a child grows up without the presence and support of a caring and loving father, identifying strategies that are successful in overcoming identified obstacles that discourage the active engagement of fathers, and other specified goals. Requires the Initiative to also promote positive interactions between fathers and their children, while promoting positive interactions between fathers and the mothers of their children. Creates the Commission on Strengthening Fathers and Families to carry out the purposes, goals, and initiatives of the Act. Contains provisions on the Commission's membership, goals, and duties, including, but not limited to, (i) developing a comprehensive plan that promotes the positive involvement and engagement of fathers and that advances family strengthening strategies, (ii) evaluating State programs, governmental policies, and community initiatives related to fatherhood and family strengthening, (iii) making recommendations to the Governor, the Deputy Governor of Health and Human Services, and the General Assembly, (iv) developing criteria for grants to fatherhood and family strengthening projects, and (v) receiving grants, contributions, and other funds for projects and activities related to advancing father involvement and engagement, and family strengthening. Provides that the Department of Human Services shall provide staffing support to the Commission. Creates the Fatherhood and Family Strengthening Fund to hold grants, contributions, and other funds received by the Commission to be expended for the purposes of the Act. Amends the State Finance Act to add the Fatherhood and Family Strengthening Fund to the list of State funds.