HI SCR169

Requests the state Auditor to conduct a comprehensive program audit of Hawaii's child protective services system, including roles in the Department of the Attorney General, Department of Human Services, family courts, and county police departments.

Directs the Auditor to consult with national entities such as the National Conference of State Legislatures Child Protection Reform Project and the National Resource Center of Child Maltreatment, as well as parents, foster parents, healthcare providers, educators, and other stakeholders.

Requires the audit to assess inter-agency communication effectiveness, staff training on child abuse and neglect identification, caseload manageability, adequacy of resources, and decision-making processes for screening, case selection, child safety, family reunification, and termination of services.

Includes a requirement to review recent cases of recurring child abuse and neglect, and mandates the Auditor provide specific reform recommendations to guide improvements to the child protective services system.

Orders the Auditor to submit findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the convening of the 2025 Regular Session.