AACAP Opposes New Flores Rule

August 28, 2019

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), a national medical association representing physicians dedicated to the health of children and families, opposes the recent policy change aimed at removing the maximum length of time in which migrant children can be held in federal custody, eliminating protections for children established under the 1997 Flores Settlement Agreement. This new rule can go into effect, potentially as early as October.

Children flourish under conditions where their health, safety, and protection by a caring adult are in the least restrictive environments. It is vital, for the well-being of all children, including immigrant children, that they receive appropriate trauma-informed care.

AACAP asks federal lawmakers to put an end to the practice of detaining immigrant children in federal custody and to ensure critical protections remain that were agreed to in the Flores Settlement Agreement.

See also:

• AACAP Statement on Separating Immigrant Children from Their Families
• President’s Statement: Separating Children from Families
• AACAP Calls on HHS Secretary Azar to Provide Details on Mental Health Screening of Migrant Youth - April 2019
• AACAP Calls for Improved Conditions for Migrant Children and Pregnant Women - December 2018
• AACAP Reiterates Call for Immediate End to Separating Immigrant Children from Families - June 2018