Grand Canyon Times

Senator Justine Wadsack and Representative Barbara Parker have voiced their dissatisfaction with the recent Sunset Review of the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS). During a hearing held by the Senate and House Health & Human Services Committees, both legislators expressed concerns over the decision to continue DCS for four more years without offering alternative oversight solutions.

"DCS has failed the last four special audits conducted by the Auditor General," stated Senator Wadsack. She criticized the agency's lack of compliance with state law and national standards, citing serious issues such as child abuse, neglect, trafficking, and even death within its purview. "We've had crimes committed, but there have been zero consequences or accountability at the agency. How could I vote to allow this dysfunction to continue?"

Representative Parker highlighted recent incidents in her district where five children from foster homes went missing. "One was found dead, and two others were found trafficked," she said. Parker emphasized that legislative revision is necessary when children's lives are at risk. "The legislature has broad powers to revise or correct agencies and has the duty to provide checks and balances to the executive branch."

Parker also raised concerns about Governor Hobbs' actions regarding state agency director nominations. "Because of Governor Hobbs' refusal to follow the law and submit state agency director nominations for Senate confirmation, any policies created by CEO David Lujan could be legally challenged," she remarked.

Both Wadsack and Parker expressed support for increased oversight efforts led by Senator Shope and Representative Montenegro as chairmen of the Health and Human Services Committees. They pledged to collaborate on legislation aimed at addressing issues within DCS.