Court grants class-action status in suit against Arizona foster system

PHOENIX — A federal judge ruled this week that a lawsuit filed by foster children against the state of Arizona would be allowed to proceed as a class-action.

The lawsuit alleged that Arizona’s foster care system violates both the U.S. Constitution and the Medicaid Act because failures within the system exposed children to harm.

“This decision is not indicative of the court’s position on the merits of the lawsuit,” Department of Child Services spokesman Darren DaRonco said in a statement.

“The department looks forward to articulating the policies implemented over the last three years which have solidified an enduring commitment to ensuring children in state custody receive the care they need and deserve.”

The suit was filed two years ago. It should move to the trial phase early next year.

Arizona’s latest report shows the state had nearly 17,000 children in foster care as of March 31, 2017.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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