UPDATE: A Kansas legislative committee has rejected a request to audit the state's foster care system.
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TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Two Democratic legislators are questioning whether the Kansas foster care system adequately protects abused and neglected children and are seeking a state audit. Representatives Ed Trimmer of Winfield and Jim Ward of Wichita planned to present their request today (WED) during a meeting of the legislative committee that initiates audits. Trimmer and Ward said they want auditors to examine whether the Department for Children and Families provides adequate oversight for two private contractors that manage the placement of abused and neglected children in foster homes. They said they also want to know whether the contractors can provide enough services. The department has started its own review of foster care policies, and legislative leaders have appointed a special committee to review foster care issues this summer and fall.
