In light of the recent and deeply disturbing tragedies involving the torture and abuse of children in Fayette County, it is painfully clear that we must do more to protect our most vulnerable citizens. I will soon introduce legislation to strengthen Pennsylvania’s Children and Youth Services (CYS) system and ensure that no child slips through unnoticed when they are in danger. 

This legislation will (1) increase accountability and oversight of county CYS agencies; (2) strengthen recordkeeping, case history, and in-home oversight; (3) improve caseworker support and workload management; (4) enhance training and coordination among available services; and (5) expand reporting and response requirements.

While no law can eliminate evil, we have a duty to ensure that the systems designed to protect children are as strong and responsive as possible.