Every child deserves to grow up with safety and security, but unfortunately, the deaths of too many young children here in Maine have revealed a problem that we need to address. As first steps in addressing these deaths, my colleagues and I within the Legislature collaborated with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to investigate structural issues within the Office of Child and Family Service (OCFS) in order to find sustainable long-term solutions. While improvements are ongoing, I want to share some of the steps that have been taken to further support the department’s caseworkers and families within our state system, with the ultimate goal being enhancing the happiness and welfare of all Maine children.
Last November, caseworkers testified before the Legislature’s Government Oversight Committee, highlighting the challenges posed by high caseloads and long working hours. It was reported that these factors were resulting in emotional burnout and, ultimately, a high employee turnover rate. Many caseworkers expressed that the demands of their roles – which often required them to be anything from a crisis intervention specialist to a transporter to a visit supervisor – coupled with low pay, resulted in a significant emotional toll.
To address these concerns and increase employee retention, DHHS recognized that it must better prioritize its employees’ work-life balance, incentivize payments for difficult shifts and, overall, increase wages. As a result of these efforts, vacancies in caseworker roles have decreased from 25% to 10%. Prioritizing work-life balance and improving the pay of OCFS workers is essential for children in the system. When employee satisfaction improves, it enables workers to consistently and effectively show up to support the children under their care.
Not only did DHHS work to provide more support for its employees, but it also recognized that it needed to provide more substantial assistance for foster families, also referred to as resource families, throughout the state. This included further investments in home-based therapeutics and resources such as Treatment Foster Care Oregon training – a framework meant to support children ages 12 to 17 with emotional and behavioral challenges living in a family setting. These trainings will give families the tools to provide appropriate care for children in their charge.
Additionally, the Legislature approved a 5% increase to foster family reimbursements in the state’s biennial budget. Adequate financial support will ensure that resource families are more able to meet the needs of the children in their care.
While improvements have been made, OCFS is committed to continue addressing both short- and long-term challenges. Going forward, the department will facilitate a review of over 2,000 recommendations from the Government Oversight Committee, the Health and Human Services Committee, various stakeholders and citizen review panels to develop a comprehensive child welfare improvement plan, which we expect will be ready for review by January 2025.
I am encouraged by OCFS’s progress in addressing the concerns raised by so many Mainers regarding our state’s child welfare system. While challenges still exist, the increased support services for frontline caseworkers and additional resources for foster families represent significant steps forward.
Ultimately, our state’s commitment to ongoing evaluations and enhancement of the child welfare system will strengthen our ability to protect and serve vulnerable children. This continual reflection and reassessment are essential for creating environments where all Maine children can grow up safely and truly thrive.
Rep. Jim Boyle, D- Gorham, is serving his second and final term in the Maine House of Representatives after serving two years in the Maine State Senate. He is a member of the Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee.