With the unemployment rates the highest in the last 26 years, the impact on child welfare agencies has been dramatic.  The number of abuse and neglect complaints has increased by 35 percent in most metropolitan areas and the number of removals has also soared for many states.  Child advocates have voiced concern in states where the child fatality rate for cases of abuse and neglect have doubled or tripled over previous years.  The experts point to greater stressors on families caused by joblessness, homelessness, lack of adequate resources, and what is perceived as a bleak future for many. 
 
Significant reductions in state revenue generally mean cuts to services and child welfare agencies are not being protected, except in very few states.  Fewer staff to investigate, place, and monitor children throughout the child protection system unfortunately can mean higher caseloads and children falling through the cracks of the overburdened system.   

States continue to grapple with implementing mandatory requirements of the Fostering Connections legislation as well as developing the National Data Youth in Transition system.   The National Governor's Association has requested pushing back the date of mandatory requirements in an effort for states to obtain sure footing for the financial future and await a response from the Administration for Children and Families.