Oregon agrees not to house foster kids in hotels, offices

SALEM, Ore. (AP) — In a settlement of a lawsuit, the Oregon Department of Human Services has agreed not to house foster children in hotels or its offices unless it is an emergency.

In September, lawyers for foster children filed a class action lawsuit alleging DHS broke the law by failing to find them appropriate housing. In the suit, attorneys described the practice of housing kids in hotels, offices, hospitals — and a jail, in one extreme case.

The Salem Statesman Journal reported on Tuesday that the settlement was reached between the agency and lawyers for foster children on Nov. 17 and announced on Tuesday.

A joint statement from DHS and Youth, Rights & Justice said the settlement stipulates DHS won’t place children in jails without charge or hospitals without a medical reason.