SPRINGFIELD – Morrison said a new state audit underscores her belief that changes may be needed at the Department of Children and Family Services, changes she plans to explore at a series of upcoming statewide hearings.

“The children who enter the DCFS system are very vulnerable. It is our responsibility to safeguard them. Clearly the status quo is not working,” said Morrison, a longtime advocate for child welfare. Morrison’s involvement with the agency dates back to 1986, when she was appointed to serve on Governor’s Statewide Advisory Council to the Department of Children and Family Services.

Morrison (D-Deerfield) was already in the process of finalizing three hearings regarding lingering issues at DCFS when a new state audit was released this week. Illinois Auditor General William G. Holland’s office found that in addition to not determining whether cases are warranted in a timely manner, the agency failed to initiate investigations within a 24-hour time period.

The audit can be found here.

Morrison said the hearings will focus on such issues and she plans to reach out to the Illinois Auditor General’s office for additional information and testimony on these issues.

“I will be encouraging organizations such as Lutheran Social Services, Voices for Illinois Children and Jewish Children & Family Services to share their perspectives and first-hand stories.  These hearings will allow individuals to share their concerns,” Morrison said.

Arrangements are being finalized regarding the hearings and Morrison said she expects to have dates, times and locations announced in the coming days.