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Houston Matters

What’s Next for the State’s Foster Care System?

In March, the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals denied an attempt by the State of Texas to pause a revamp of its foster care system. The court appointed two Special Masters to oversee the system revamp. Francis McGovern and Kevin Ryan began their appointed positions in April. Then, earlier this month, the Special Masters […]

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Photo: Michael Hagerty, Houston Public MediaIn March, the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals denied an attempt by the State of Texas to pause a revamp of its foster care system. The court appointed two Special Masters to oversee the system revamp. Francis McGovern and Kevin Ryan began their appointed positions in April.

Then, earlier this month, the Special Masters released dozens of recommendations on how Texas should overhaul its troubled foster care system. They include better reporting and improving caseworker retention. The judge will have to review those recommendations and could force the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services to implement them.

We examine the legislative issues surrounding the foster care system with Alex Hunt, an attorney with Hunt Law Firm. Then, to learn more about the support foster care families need from the state — even after these changes are made to the system — we talk with DeJuana Jernigan, director for Child Welfare and Residential Treatment Services at DePelchin Children's Center.