14 Montanans Appointed to Review Child Protection System

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Gov. Steve Bullock has appointed 14 people to examine the state's child protection system and recommend ways the agency can improve its ability to protect children from abuse and neglect.

Bullock met in July with counselors and the families of some children involved with child protective services who sought wholesale changes within the agency. They complained that they were disrespected by caseworkers, the agency ignored the recommendations of some counselors and workers seemed to lack training.

Bullock issued an executive order in September to create the Protect Montana Kids Commission.

Those named to the commission on Friday include Sarah Corbally, the administrator of the Montana Child and Family Services Division of the state health department. Others include attorneys, physicians and counselors.

The commission must report its recommended changes to the governor by March 31.