Senator Mark Finchem has introduced SB 1149 to strengthen oversight of the Department of Child Safety and improve how courts review cases involving dependent children.
When the state removes a child from their home, it takes on a serious responsibility. That power must be used carefully, transparently, and with constant review. SB 1149 addresses long-standing concerns that dependency cases can drag on without clear answers, leaving children stuck in the system and families without direction.
The bill requires DCS to provide a detailed written report at least fifteen days before every periodic review hearing. That report must explain where the child is living, what services are being provided to the child and family, how the case plan is progressing, and whether the child still needs to remain in state care. This ensures judges are not making decisions in the dark.
SB 1149 also tightens court procedures. Judges must clearly state whether a child should be returned home or remain dependent. If a child stays in care, the court must issue clear orders about placement, education, and services. Parents are advised on the record that failing to attend hearings or participate in reunification services can result in permanent consequences, including loss of parental rights.
The bill also pushes DCS to look first to relatives or people with a meaningful relationship to the child, instead of defaulting to institutional or long-term foster placements. Keeping children connected to family whenever safely possible reduces trauma and improves outcomes.
SB 1149 forces the system to justify its actions, move cases forward, and keep child safety as the top priority. When government intervenes in families, it must be accountable at every step.