A panel reviewing severe child abuse cases has released nine recommendations to improve protective services, including drug-testing parents who have a child die unexpectedly in their care.
The Courier-Journal reports the Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review Panel released the recommendations Monday.
The panel was tasked by the governor with reviewing 116 case files of children who died or nearly died from abuse or neglect and making recommendations to improve the state's child protection system.
Along with drug screenings, the committee recommended several other changes including a public awareness campaign on safe sleeping practices for infants, making court proceedings more transparent and studying the caseload of social workers.
The Cabinet for Health and Family Services said in a statement that officials will review the report and evaluate the proposals.