"Protecting our most vulnerable children is one of the most challenging responsibilities of government. Today's report by the independent federal monitor indicates that tremendous progress continues to be made by the staff at DYFS and the Department of Children and Families toward overhauling and improving our child welfare and adoption system in New Jersey.

"Under the new leadership of Commissioner Kimberly Ricketts, the Department has continued its momentum of change, including significant successes in the areas of DYFS workforce training, caseload reduction, resource homes, out-of-state placements and adoption.

"I am very pleased with the results of this latest report, but fully realize that our work is part of an ongoing process of continued improvement. While the State and the nation are in the midst of tough fiscal times, this Administration will not waver on our commitment to keeping our children safe."

Under a 2006 federal court settlement between the State of New Jersey and Children's Rights Inc., a court ordered monitor was appointed to oversee the reforms put into place by the Department of Children and Families. The monitor issued its first report on New Jersey's child welfare system in February 2007. This report covers the period January 1 - June 30, 2008.