Abstract
Family separation as a result of parental deportation of immigrants living in the USA triggers both child and family trauma and economic impact to the state. A child’s separation from their parents is an adverse childhood experience that can induce depression, anxiety, and aggression and could create long-lasting negative impacts and reduce their likelihood of succeeding socially, academically, and economically. The implications of the influx of parents into the child welfare system for welfare authorities are discussed, highlighting Florida as an example. With respect to the economic repercussions in Florida, the projection of massive deportations due to federal immigration policies could overburden the child welfare system with an influx of children of deportees and concurrently encumber the state’s budget. Information regarding safeguards for families and the rights of parents and children under US law and international human rights covenants is provided. It is crucial for the child welfare system to re-evaluate protocols to reduce the psychological impacts on affected families, assure parental rights, and to secure the necessary resources to alleviate the anticipated economic burden. Recommendations and action steps for responding to separated families and immigrant children entering the child welfare system are offered.