Capitol News

Senator Jim Runestad has reintroduced legislation that would allow Michigan state legislators to confidentially review Child Protective Services (CPS) cases when requested by constituents. The bill, Senate Bill 605, is intended to increase transparency and accountability within the CPS system.

“This is a necessary check and balance on one of our state’s most important government programs,” said Runestad, R-White Lake. “The fact that CPS administrators have no way to be held accountable is a disaster. If a government cannot reliably protect children who need help, then it is by no means capable of serving the public. My bill would provide needed transparency and accountability to the CPS system.”

The proposal would permit constituents to bring their CPS case concerns directly to their state legislator. Lawmakers could then review and document the cases, ensuring all procedures are properly followed.

Runestad first introduced similar legislation in 2023 after several high-profile child deaths in Michigan, including the death of 5-year-old Ethan Belcher, the freezing deaths of Monica Cannady and her children, and more recent reports highlighting failures within CPS oversight. These include the abuse of a 4-year-old girl by her caretakers while under agency supervision and the deaths of 9-year-olds Owen Roserio and Zemar King.

“If a CPS administrator knows their case is subject to external review, they are more likely to follow proper protocols, safety measures and do their job to the best of their ability,” Runestad said. “Michigan’s foster care system is arguably the worst in the nation, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If lawmakers pass sensible policies directed toward accountability, transparency and oversight, Michigan’s most vulnerable children will be protected.”