Missouri Legislative Committees address child fatality oversight failures & demand reforms.

Jefferson City, MO – Following a Sunshine Request that revealed disturbing reports of over 10 child fatalities in Missouri linked to breakdowns in oversight and communication within the state’s child welfare system, the Senate Committee on Families, Seniors, and Health and the House Committee on Children and Families issued the following statement calling for decisive action to address these systemic failures.

The announcement was made in a joint news release issued by Chair Senator Jill Carter (District 32) and Representative Holly Jones, Chair, District 88.

“After sobering discussions with the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS), we have been informed that the new director is actively assessing its systems to identify and correct deficiencies. While we commend these efforts, the Senate and House Committee members believe immediate action is necessary to prevent further tragedies.

“To strengthen accountability, improve communication, and refocus on the department’s core mission, we are calling for the following reforms to be implemented by DSS without delay:

1. Notification of Child Fatalities to Elected Officials: When a child fatality occurs, DSS must promptly notify the respective state senator and state representative, ensuring transparency and enabling swift legislative oversight.

2. Notification to Juvenile Offices: DSS must notify the respective juvenile office when closing a family- centered services case due to lack of cooperation or refusal to participate by a caregiver, providing a complete assessment for review and follow-up by local court officers.

3. Review for Case Closure: Children’s Division staff must receive clear and direct instructions to implement a team review prior to closing any case where a child is at risk of abuse or neglect by a person with access to the child.

The Senate Committee on Families, Seniors, and Health and the House Committee on Children and Families are committed to protecting Missouri’s most vulnerable children. We will continue to monitor DSS’s progress in working with juvenile officers and stakeholders to implement these and other reforms to prevent further tragedies.