H.R. No. 233


R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and the citizens of Texas are committed to helping to end the cycle of abuse and neglect that affects many of our nation's youth; and WHEREAS, Child maltreatment occurs when people find themselves in stressful situations, without community resources, and cannot cope; the resulting abuse and neglect not only harms children directly, but also increases the likelihood of long-term physical and mental health problems, alcohol and substance abuse, continued family violence, and criminal behavior; and WHEREAS, Because the majority of child abuse cases stem from situations and conditions that are preventable in an engaged and supportive community, the hurtful treatment of children can be reduced by making sure that each family has the support it needs in order to raise its children in a safe, nurturing environment; and WHEREAS, Addressing child abuse and neglect is an undertaking that requires the involvement of people throughout the community; effective child abuse programs succeed because of partnerships created among social service agencies, schools, faith communities, civic organizations, law enforcement agencies, and the business community; and WHEREAS, By recognizing that each of us has an important role to play in the prevention of child abuse and neglect, we can make many contributions toward securing for the children of Texas the care and respect that they deserve; children represent the future of this state, and it is the responsibility of our society to ensure an environment in which they can grow and thrive; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 79th Texas Legislature, 3rd Called Session, hereby recognize April 2006 as Child Abuse Prevention Month and encourage its observance by citizens throughout the Lone Star State. Dawson ______________________________ Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 233 was adopted by the House on May 4, 2006, by a non-record vote. ______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House