Sebelius keeps commitment to protect children from abuse
Child advocacy centers proposed, task force formed

In 2006, a case of alleged child abuse involving two Wichita children revealed weaknesses in the state’s system for protecting children. As a result, Governor Kathleen Sebelius has implemented several reforms and proposed others, and is also gathering experts to recommend additional improvements to Kansas’ child welfare system.

“Government’s primary responsibility is to protect its citizens, particularly those who can’t protect themselves.  Our goal is to prevent child abuse from ever happening in the first place, and to intervene early, make sure the children are protected, prosecute the abuser,” Sebelius said.

Last year Sebelius ordered a number of reforms in the ways Kansas prevents, identifies, and handles reports of child abuse.  These reforms are designed to ensure reports are properly handled and investigated so situations similar to the one that occurred in Wichita do not occur again.

Additionally, Sebelius has proposed the creation of child advocacy centers, including $1 million in her budget to begin setting up these centers around the state.  These organizations bring law enforcement and social services organizations together under one roof to coordinate efforts to protect children.

“We want to bring together all the agencies that have a role in protecting children so they can work together to make sure no child stays in a dangerous situation,” Sebelius said.

Additionally, Sebelius has requested a comprehensive review of the Kansas system to prevent child abuse, and today formed the Child Protective Services Task Force to undertake that review. 

The task force includes child advocates, criminal justice professionals, legislators, and other stakeholders.  It has been asked to undertake a review of Kansas law, policies and practices that deal with protecting children from abuse and neglect, and make recommendations on how the safety of children can be improved.

After conducting its review, the task force will report its recommendations for improvements to Governor Sebelius by November 1, 2007.  A full list of the task force members appears below.

Tim Emert, Independence, Chair
B.J. Hohnholt, Overland Park, law enforcement professional
Charlene Brubaker, Ellis County Assistant Attorney, law enforcement professional
Rick Guinn, Office of Attorney General Paul Morrison
Sandy Barnett, Topeka, victim advocate
Dalyn Schmitt, Shawnee Mission, substance abuse professional
Susan Vorhees, Topeka, licensed psychologist
Sue Lockett, Topeka, stakeholder
Judge Jean Shepherd, Lawrence, District Court Judge, District 11
Sen. Pete Brungardt, Salina, Senate President appointee
Rep. Pat Colloton, Leawood, House Speaker appointee
Rep. Oletha Faust-Goudeau, Wichita, House Minority Leader appointee
Sen.  David Haley, Senate Minority Leader appointee
Ron Paschal, Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office

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