Livingston Today

Senator Jim Runestad has reintroduced legislation aimed at allowing Michigan state legislators to confidentially review Child Protective Services (CPS) cases brought to them by constituents. The proposal, Senate Bill 605, is part of Runestad’s ongoing efforts to increase transparency and oversight within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, particularly in its management of CPS and foster care programs.

“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.”

If passed, the legislation would allow constituents to request their state legislator’s involvement in reviewing their CPS case. Lawmakers would be able to review and document these cases to ensure all procedures are being properly followed.

Runestad originally introduced similar legislation in 2023 after several high-profile incidents involving children under CPS supervision. These included the death of 5-year-old Ethan Belcher, whose parents were arrested; the discovery of Monica Cannady and her children frozen to death; a case involving a 4-year-old girl who was repeatedly abused while under agency oversight; 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.”