HD75 - Operation and Performance of Virginia's Social Services System


Executive Summary:
House Joint Resolution 193 enacted by the 2004 General Assembly directed JLARC staff to study the operation and performance of the Commonwealth’s social services system. JLARC staff surveyed all 120 local departments of social services; conducted site visits and phone interviews with 27 local departments; analyzed financial, human resources, caseload, and performance data; and held numerous interviews with State DSS and other State agency staff.

The study found that Virginia’s locally-administered system allows local departments to tailor program strategies and operations to meet local needs, and develop key relationships with other local organizations, such as the court system. However, some local departments lack access to important resources, such as funding, and capabilities, such as planning and management. Some departments also fall well below performance targets or requirements in multiple program areas.

The study found several resource issues that need attention. Local governments are providing an increased share of administrative funding, and some departments have imbalances between the administrative funds they receive and the caseload they manage. In addition, the system faces human resource challenges with a growing number of directors eligible to retire and difficulties with recruitment and retention. While some aspects of information technology that supports the social services system appear to be improving, planning and oversight for a large-scale IT system have been questionable.

The study further found weaknesses in State supervision and support provided to local departments, including ineffective data collection and analysis, and coordination in support of local operations. The decline of the State DSS regional structure has also contributed to weak communication and oversight. These problems have been exacerbated by recent turnover in the DSS commissioner position.

The study recommends comprehensive changes to address these issues and others. The State DSS has several initiatives underway that if successful may address some of the concerns identified. However, because of the longstanding and complex nature of many of these problems, and the importance of involving top leadership and State and local stakeholders, a commission or task force is needed to develop a comprehensive improvement plan.

[ See also House Document No. 33 (2006).]