Bill > SR179

This Resolution formally requests the Auditor to conduct a thorough review, known as a comprehensive performance and management audit, of the Child Welfare Services Branch (CWSB) within the Department of Human Services. The CWSB's primary role is to protect children in the state by ensuring their safety and well-being and responding to reports of abuse and neglect. This audit is being initiated due to public and media concerns following tragic events, as well as past evaluations from 2009 and 2017 that indicated a lack of improvement and failure to meet key standards for protecting children. The audit will specifically examine the effectiveness and adherence to CWSB's policies and procedures concerning the investigation and handling of abuse and neglect cases, the provision of services, safeguarding children's rights, coordination with law enforcement and the Attorney General's office, record-keeping, and oversight of its offices. Furthermore, the Auditor will assess the personnel and resources needed for the CWSB to effectively carry out its duties and will report findings and recommendations, including potential legislative proposals, to the Legislature by a specified date.