Commission: Child protection agency needs more funding

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A commission appointed to review the state Division of Child and Family Services says the organization needs increased funding to hire more case workers, reduce caseloads and hopefully reduce the stress of the job, allowing the agency to retain more workers who are tasked with responding to child abuse and neglect cases.

The Protect Montana Kids Commission worked Monday on its final recommendations with regard to the agency's workforce and work culture.

The group recommended improving worker and supervisor training and adding incentives to attract new employees, such as student loan assistance for recent college graduates who agree to work for the agency.

Commission member Chuck Hunter says there should be a covenant between the legislature and the administration regarding adequate funding for Child and Family Services.