Great Lakes Wire

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) provided an update on the progress made in improving the state's child welfare system. The department presented its report to Judge Nancy G. Edmunds of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, as part of the Modified Implementation, Sustainability and Exit Plan (MISEP).

During the court conference, Judge Edmunds noted that MDHHS met or exceeded performance standards in five areas monitored for compliance from July 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023. This development brings these areas closer to ending court oversight. Judge Edmunds praised MDHHS and federal court monitors for their progress and expressed optimism about further improvements.

MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel stated, “Ensuring that all Michigan children have a safe and loving place to call home is a top priority at MDHHS. I’m proud of the work and positive impact our team continues to make for families and children.” She highlighted the Keep Kids Safe Action Agenda as a strategy implemented by MDHHS.

The latest report indicates that MDHHS met or exceeded standards in five out of 26 monitored areas and was within 10% of meeting standards in four additional areas.

Key achievements include maintaining an adequate number of foster homes for adolescents, sibling groups, and children with disabilities; adoption caseload standards with 89.3% compliance; comprehensive written family assessments exceeding an 83% standard; and timely provision of services with an 85.7% rating.

Federal court monitors have tracked progress since a settlement agreement following a lawsuit filed by Children’s Rights against Michigan's former Department of Human Services in 2006. In January 2024, many requirements were eliminated due to significant progress made by MDHHS.

Demetrius Starling, senior deputy director of MDHHS Children’s Services Administration, remarked on the challenges faced in child welfare improvement: “Progress can be a long road... Continuous improvement is key to ensuring better safety and outcomes for kids.”