How Policy Hidden in an Algorithm is Threatening Families in This Pennsylvania County
ACLU
Ref: SRC-004-USA-002
Accessed: 3/24/2026
Summary
ACLU analysis documenting racial disparities in AFST scoring: approximately 33% of Black households labelled high-risk vs 20% of non-Black households. Reports mandatory screen-in threshold at scores 18+. Documents concerns about incorporation of juvenile probation data reflecting systemic racial inequities (Black girls 10x, Black boys 7x more likely in juvenile justice system). Notes DOJ Civil Rights Division examination following formal complaints about disability discrimination.
View Harvard reference
ACLU (2023) 'How Policy Hidden in an Algorithm is Threatening Families in This Pennsylvania County', American Civil Liberties Union. Available at: https://www.aclu.org/news/womens-rights/how-policy-hidden-in-an-algorithm-is-threatening-families-in-this-pennsylvania-county (Accessed: 24 March 2026).