My personal experience with Connecticut's Department of Children and Families (DCF) has shown me firsthand the systemic issues that exist within the child welfare system. Over the years, I have witnessed the inconsistent practices of DCF workers that have not only failed our children and families but have, in some instances, caused grave harm. This is not just a concern for me, but for countless families across our state.

The tragic irony is that instead of addressing these systemic flaws, frequently homeschooling is unjustly blamed as a risk factor or cause for child abuse. This deflects attention from the real issue: the need for accountability and transparency within the DCF.

I strongly believe that reform is necessary, and one solution to improve accountability and ensure appropriate conduct is to mandate body cameras for all DCF social workers during their interactions with families. Just as body cams have been vital in law enforcement for accountability and protection, they can serve an essential function in child welfare services.

Body cameras will provide factual records of interactions, clarify miscommunications, and protect both the workers and families from false allegations. They will also help in providing accurate data that can be used to improve training and policies.

Further, Connecticut should take a long, hard look at the current failings of the DCF system—massive caseloads, inadequate training, and an overburdened workforce. We need a comprehensive reform that strengthens the welfare framework to truly protect and serve our children and families.

Instead of targeting homeschoolers, let's focus on real data, proven reforms, and genuine accountability measures to create meaningful change in Connecticut’s child welfare system.

Please, for the sake of our children and families, join me in calling for legislative change to mandate body cams for DCF workers and initiate comprehensive reform. Sign this petition to demand action now and ensure a safer future for all Connecticut’s children.