Children '98: America's Promise. 1998 Children's Legislative Agenda, Budget Updates & Issue Briefs.

This report of the Child Welfare League of America calls for a meaningful national strategy to protect and invest in children and their families. The report outlines and documents essential investments, and highlights the costs of deficits and disinvestments in children. Specific actions are proposed to improve the well-being of vulnerable children, improve child safety, promote child and family well-being, and enhance the child and family service systems. Following an introduction that describes areas of significant legislation in 1997 and outlines the legislative challenges for 1998, the report presents a discussion of the federal budget as it relates to programs for children and families, and a chart of funding for selected children's programs. The 1998 legislative agenda is proposed in seven areas: (1) protecting children from abuse and neglect; (2) protecting children and strengthening families with quality child day care; (3) preventing crime and ensuring justice for young people; (4) helping young people become productive adults and build healthy communities; (5) ensuring adequate and appropriate health care for every child; (6) ensuring economic protection for children; and (7) helping vulnerable families with children secure housing. The report's three appendices define key legislative terms, list Congressional committees, discuss the importance of voting, and outline steps to implement the children's legislative agenda. (KB)