DCS officials say more funding could blunt crises

Why it matters: The audit describes a series of crises at DCS, including high turnover and staff vacancies that compromised the agency's ability to keep vulnerable children safe.

State of play: Speaking to a panel of lawmakers Wednesday, DCS commissioner Margie Quin said the audit from the state comptroller offered a "roadmap" to make needed improvements.

• Among other things, the money in the DCS budget request would go toward raises for overworked caseworkers and housing options for children in state custody.
• Quin said she wants to temporarily fund privatized caseworkers in parts of the state with the most vacancies.

Driving the news: The panel asked DCS to submit regular updates to auditors and lawmakers.

• "We need progress," said state Sen. Kerry Roberts (R-Springfield). "We need to exceed our goals."

What's next: Leading lawmakers have pledged to make improving DCS a priority during the upcoming legislative session.

• "There are many issues to address — including staffing shortages, employee pay, and limited placements of children," House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R-Crossville) tells Axios.