S.C.R. No. 112 Summary

• Requests the State Auditor to conduct a comprehensive performance and management audit of the Child Welfare Services Branch (CWSB) of the Department of Human Services

• Audit must examine CWSB's policies and procedures including: investigating child abuse and neglect reports, providing services for substantiated cases, safeguarding child rights, coordinating with county police and the Attorney General, maintaining the Child Abuse and Neglect Registry, and providing statewide office oversight

• Directs the Auditor to assess personnel and resource needs for CWSB to effectively investigate abuse and neglect allegations and perform agency duties

• Auditor must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2019 Regular Session convening

• Resolution cites concerns including no improvements since 2009 federal evaluation, lack of substantial conformity with outcome categories, approximately 25% vacancy rate of 180 social worker positions at end of 2017, and insufficient caseworker visits