Funding Improvements to Missouri’s Children’s Division

The Appropriations – Health, Mental Health, and Social Services Committee held two hearings this week to hear funding requests from the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and the Department of Social Services (DSS).

DSS’s Children’s Division, which is responsible for investigating claims of child abuse and caring for foster children, is plagued by a high staff turnover rate, which inhibits the division’s ability to protect Missouri’s children.

To recruit and maintain high-quality workers, DSS requested funding for computer and software updates to allow staff to access files on the go, a loan forgiveness program to encourage college graduates to remain at DSS, and advanced training to better prepare staff. This would include Forensic Training for all staff involved in investigations and Secondary Trauma training for all Children’s Division workers to help them cope with the difficult situations they encounter on the job.

The division’s Career Ladder initiative would allow for more internal promotion within the Children’s Division based on skill and tenure. Hopefully, the opportunity for advancement and recognition will encourage the most experienced and talented workers to remain with the department.

There is sufficient support in the Appropriations Committee to work with DSS to secure the funding for these changes. Children in Missouri deserve to be protected and cared for by qualified and experienced staff able to accurately assess their safety and make difficult decisions when necessary.

The committee also delved into departments’ core budgets and their new decision items from previous years to determine how well the money was used. If these programs have not served their purposes, improved wellness, or encouraged positive behavioral changes, the legislature should not continue spending taxpayer money on these initiatives.

Appropriations Committees have two more weeks to examine departments’ budget proposals and present their recommendations to the House Budget Committee.  Our committee will continue to set aside time for public testimony to hear citizens’ views on the budget process. Since time is limited, messages should be no longer than five minutes, but additional written materials are encouraged. Please email me at sue.allen@house.mo.gov if you are interested in speaking.