RELEASE: November 24, 2003

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TRENTON – Culminating over a year of research and discussion, two workgroups presented reports today examining the impacts of substance abuse and domestic violence on children and families served by the New Jersey Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS).

“Over a year ago, I came before the Legislature to explain how the State was failing to meet the federal standards and more importantly our children and families,” said Department of Human Services Commissioner Gwendolyn L. Harris. “These reports are an honest and frank assessment of how substance abuse and domestic violence destroy so many lives and what the State can do to change that.”

Established under executive order by Governor James E. McGreevey last fall, the workgroups included members of the public, community service providers and branches of government that interface with the child welfare system. Presented to Commissioner Harris and the State Legislature, the reports’ recommendations have been forwarded to the New Jersey Child Welfare Panel and will be considered for inclusion in the child welfare reform plans as well as the State’s program improvement plan as required by the federal Child and Family Services Review (CFSR).