S.R. 70 Summary

• Requests the Auditor conduct a comprehensive performance and management audit of the Child Welfare Services Branch (CWSB) of the Department of Human Services due to concerns about operations, policies, and procedures.

• Recent federal review found CWSB made no improvements since 2009 evaluation and was not in "substantial conformity" with any of seven outcome categories, including child protection from abuse and neglect.

• Directs audit to examine effectiveness and compliance with CWSB policies on investigating child abuse and neglect, risk assessment methods, child and family rights protection, inter-agency coordination with police and Attorney General, database record maintenance, and office oversight.

• Requires audit to examine and recommend additional personnel and resources needed for CWSB to effectively investigate abuse and neglect allegations, addressing ongoing staffing challenges with approximately 25% of 180 social worker positions vacant as of end of 2017.

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