The Big Picture
Since 2020, Pennsylvania counties have been unable to review half of the child deaths reported to them. This stems from an unfunded mandate that has left counties struggling to meet the review requirements. As a result, a significant portion of child fatalities are not undergoing the necessary examination.
Key Facts
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Half of child deaths in Pennsylvania since 2020 have not been reviewed.
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Counties are struggling to meet the requirements of an unfunded mandate.
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The mandate requires counties to review child deaths.
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Lack of funding is the primary reason for the unreviewed cases.
How Media Is Covering This
1 articleHalf of child deaths left unreviewed in Pennsylvania since 2020 as counties struggle with 'unfunded mandate'
Read moreWhy It Matters
This lack of funding has created a strain on county resources, making it difficult for them to fulfill the mandate. The consequence is a backlog and a failure to review a substantial number of child fatalities, raising concerns about understanding the circumstances and potential preventability of these deaths.
The article highlights the struggle counties face in implementing and sustaining the required review processes due to the financial burden imposed by the mandate. This situation leaves a critical gap in oversight and analysis of child mortality within the state.
