California Department Of Social Services Overseeing Alameda County’s Child Welfare Department

As of July 29, 2026, the Alameda County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) has been operating under the oversight of the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). The change in oversight followed a March 2026 on-site review by CDSS that found DCFS needed technical assistance and support to comply with state child welfare laws and regulations.

The March 2026 review examined 67 referrals and 52 foster care cases and identified continued problems with the department's child welfare operations. Of the referrals reviewed, 72% had been determined by DCFS not to require an in-person response or . . .