DCF reform measure signed into law

MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) – Governor Phil Scott has signed a law that aims to remedy long-running problems at the Vermont Department for Children and Families.

The measure asks DCF — specifically the commissioner — to write new procedures for investigations into child abuse and new rules for determining whether or not to conduct an investigation.

It also includes new rules for the Child Protection Registry, a database of substantiated child abuse & neglect reports dating back to 1992. Now, a risk evaluation — depending on the extent of concern against a parent — will determine their placement on the registry.