New Child, Youth and Family Services Act now in effect in PEI

The Child, Youth and Family Services Act that was passed in the fall 2023 sitting of the PEI Legislature, has been proclaimed and is now in effect. The Act replaces the Child Protection Act and enhances the fundamental rights of children in Prince Edward Island.  Key changes under the new Act include clarifying legal custody for children who require out of home placements for child protection concerns; reducing the length of time a child can be in the temporary care of the Director of Child Protection; and youth aging out of care will be eligible to access supports until the age of 25 (up from 21) to help them transition into adulthood.