Michigan Continues Progress In Child Welfare Settlement Agreement—But Data System Remains Problematic

During the first six months after Michigan’s plan was approved in 2016 for exiting the 2008 Dwayne B v. Snyder modified settlement agreement, the state made progress meeting the terms, but its data tracking system still cannot provide complete data for benchmarks such as frequency of caseworker visits. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has achieved the required performance standard for caseload progression for new employees, and measures related to timely permanency or placement with relatives without reentering foster care. However, the state has not provided complete data on nine other measures in its exit plan . . .