We, the undersigned, demand immediate reforms to Wisconsin’s social services system to protect children, families, and the integrity of the system.

Background:

Social services in Wisconsin, particularly child protective services (CPS), have demonstrated recurring patterns of mismanagement, lack of accountability, and, in some cases, actions that have caused harm to families. Reports of wrongful child removal, inadequate communication between states in the Interstate Compact for the Placement of Children (ICPC) process, and inconsistent provision of support for families are documented concerns.

Issues:

1. Lack of transparency and oversight in child welfare decisions.

2. Mismanagement and delays in the ICPC process.

3. Unequal or inconsistent support for families, including failure to provide necessary resources for child visits and care.

4. Allegations of retaliation or punitive measures against families raising concerns.

5. Limited accountability for social service workers and agencies who fail to follow proper procedures.

Our Goals and Demands:

We are seeking comprehensive reform of Wisconsin’s social services system, alongside immediate action to stop corruption and harmful practices. Specifically, we call for:

1. Establishment of independent oversight to review social services cases and practices.

2. Strict enforcement and transparency in the ICPC process.

3. Clear policies guaranteeing families access to necessary support and resources.

4. Protection against retaliation for families reporting concerns or grievances.

5. Legislative action to create enforceable accountability measures for social services workers and administrators.

6. Strip public servants of immunity. Its not ok to break the law, no matter who you are.

7. More funding for reunification and prevention services. Services should be offered to families before removal to encourage family preservation.

8. Remove incentives for the Adoption of children and (or) change of guardianship. Instead add incentives for reunification.

Conclusion:

Children’s safety and family integrity should be the highest priority. The current system has failed too many families. We, the undersigned, urge the state of Wisconsin to implement these reforms immediately to ensure a just, transparent, and accountable social services system.