TOPEKA – State auditors say the Kansas Department for Children and Families is struggling to adequately oversee private foster care contractors, putting children in the system at risk.
Shortly after the 59-page audit was released Wednesday, two Democratic senators called for department Secretary Phyllis Gilmore to resign.
Among other things, auditors said the agency has implemented only one of nine recommendations in a 2013 assessment of services. It also said the department doesn’t ensure that background checks of individuals in foster homes are as frequent and thorough as they should be.
Some state lawmakers sought the audit in response to reports of children dying or being mistreated while in the agency’s care. The audit did not address allegations that the agency discriminates against same-sex couples when deciding where to place children.
