The new commissioner of the Vermont Department for Children and Families has suggested that a legislative committee provide oversight of the child welfare agency on an ongoing basis.
Ken Schatz testified Thursday before a special legislative panel looking into the workings of the department following two infant deaths.
He outlined changes that have been made since the deaths this year of two toddlers in separate incidents who had been in the state's care.
Schatz replaced David Yacovone, who announced last week that he was leaving for another job.
Acting Agency of Human Services Secretary Harry Chen said he will provide a report to Governor Peter Shumllin on Oct. 1 with recommendations for restructuring the child welfare agency to improve the commissioner's ability to focus on child protection.
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