CT Senate GOP Statement on DCF Audit

Sen. Jason Perillo, Ranking Senator on the Committee on Children, and Sen. Stephen Harding issued the following statement regarding a state audit of the Connecticut Department of Children and Families:

“Fifteen of the auditors’ 18 findings – more than 83 % – are repeat findings.

Among the findings was that DCF paid a foster parent nearly $20,000 to look after their own foster children. (https://insideinvestigator.org/dcf-paid-foster-parent-20k-to-look-after-own-foster-children/)

The report also notes how reviews of reported child abuse and neglect are not being completed in a prompt manner. (https://ctnewsjunkie.com/2025/05/29/state-auditors-call-for-dcf-to-tighten-up-internal-processes/)

As Republicans noted after successfully fending off legislation that would have scapegoated and negatively impacted thousands of Connecticut homeschooler families, the legislature should be focused on DCF.

Where’s the informational hearing on DCF? That should have been done months ago. Why isn’t the legislature analyzing the policies of DCF and the effect of remote work policies on the safety of children in the state? Republicans recently offered legislation to do just that, but it was voted down by Democrats.

We continue to seek accountability in addressing the horrific tragedy that occurred in Waterbury where a young man was held captive for decades. To make sure this never happens again, we must take a holistic approach. Any failings in any state government department must be corrected.”