BODINE SAYS DYFS' LACK OF PROGRESS
IS DISAPPOINTING
DISTURBED BY PLAN TO DISSOLVE NEW JERSEY CHILD WELFARE PANELEighth District Assemblyman Francis Bodine said today that he is very disappointed with the Administration's ability to satisfactorily reform the Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS).

"To say the least, the recent report issued by the New Jersey Child Welfare
Panel is disappointing," said Bodine, R-Burlington. "While I appreciate the immense task DYFS has undertaken, it is unacceptable that the State has been unable to adequately meet many of its reform goals."

Bodine sharply criticized the Administration's decision to disband the independent panel of experts charged with monitoring New Jersey's child welfare reform effort.

"The success of this reform effort is dependent on the State embracing the recommendations made by the New Jersey Child Welfare Panel," Bodine added. "This advisory panel has provided us with critical insight into the problems DYFS is still experiencing. Without them to monitor the State's progress, I fear that situation will only get worse."

Bodine said DYFS Director Edward Cotton's resignation in addition to the proposed dismantling of the New Jersey Child Welfare Panel could lead to chaos within the Division.

"The one man charged with shepherding in these reforms has resigned," Bodine said. "We need steady leadership now more than ever. The New Jersey Child Welfare Panel will provide the necessary guidance needed to properly implement these reform measures.

"DYFS needs to work quickly to implement these reforms," concluded Bodine. "Before another tragedy occurs, Administration officials need to act on the panel's thoughtful recommendations."

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