MD HJ4

Affirms Maryland's commitment to the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of approximately 24,000 children in guardianship homes and under Social Services Administration care, supported by roughly 12,500 providers at an annual cost of approximately $360 million

Cites Office of Legislative Audits findings that the Social Services Administration failed to ensure foster children received required medical and dental exams, failed to conduct timely abuse and neglect investigations, and failed to pursue provider overpayments

Implores the Social Services Administration to strictly comply with State law and regulations to protect children from abuse and neglect and ensure guardianship facilities are properly certified

Calls for implementation of audit recommendations to safeguard the welfare of children placed in State guardianship

Directs the Department of Legislative Services to forward the resolution to the Governor, Senate President, and House Speaker