Arizona Department of Child Safety discriminates against certain parents, DOJ report alleges
Logo for the Arizona Department of Child Safety
PHOENIX - A report issued by the U.S. Department of Justice accuses Arizona's Department of Child Safety of violating existing anti-discrimination laws involving disabilities.
Per DOJ's statement on Dec. 16, DCS allegedly violated the Americans with Disabilities Act by "discriminating against parents, including foster parents and other caregivers, and children with disabilities."
"Following a comprehensive investigation, the department found DCS failed to communicate effectively with parents and children with hearing disabilities, including by not providing interpreters. DCS also failed to reasonably accommodate the needs of parents with disabilities by, for example, not providing information in a simplified form. Finally, DCS denies parents with disabilities an equal chance to participate in and benefit from DCS programs and services," a portion of the statement reads.
Justice officials said they have provided DCS with a list of findings that also details the minimum steps DCS must take.
We have reached out to DCS on the report, and a spokesperson with the department released a statement that reads:
"The Department of Child Safety is committed to working compassionately with all families, including children and families with disabilities. Today, the Department received findings of a nearly five-year long investigation. The Department is reviewing those findings and will work with the DOJ to remedy any alleged violations of law. In August 2023, the Department hired a dedicated ADA/LEP Coordinator to ensure the rights of families interacting with the Department are protected. If you believe your rights have been violated in the course of your DCS case, you can contact the DCS Office of the Ombudsman at ombudsman@azdcs.gov or 602-364-0777 or 1-877-527-0765."