Bill > SB798

This bill establishes a temporary Child Welfare Services (CWS) Branch Oversight Commission within the Department of the Attorney General to address ongoing concerns about child welfare services in Hawaii. The commission will consist of 15 members from various government agencies, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and families with experience in the child welfare system, and will be charged with reviewing and assessing the CWS branch's case management procedures, staff training, staffing levels, and other critical aspects of child welfare services. Specifically, the commission will investigate issues highlighted in a 2024 state auditor's report, provide recommendations to reduce child harm and death, and suggest potential legislative and funding improvements. The commission will be required to submit annual status reports to the legislature in 2026, 2027, and 2028, and will be dissolved on June 30, 2028. The bill appropriates $25,000 for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to support the commission's work, and the commission members will serve without compensation but will be reimbursed for necessary expenses. The legislation is a direct response to significant staffing challenges in the CWS branch, which has experienced a vacancy rate of over 20%, and aims to improve the protection and care of children in the state's foster care system.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=798&year=2026