Lawmakers Look To The Future For DHS

With the retirement of longtime DHS Director Howard Hendrick, legislators are beginning to ask questions about what the future will hold for the department.

A number of lawmakers have been calling for major reforms to take place at DHS for quite some time. They are hopeful that commissioners and the agency will make some real changes from the top down.

Representative Richard Morrisette has been critical of the director and the agency as a whole.

He says the director's departure could signify a real opportunity to change the way DHS operates.

"For four years now, I have been pounding on the table that we need to reform DHS in its entirety to make it more efficient and deliver their services better, Morrisette said.

Representative Mike Sanders also says Hendrick's retirement is a step in the right direction.

"I think a fresh face, I think a fresh start. Someone who can come in with new ideas. Someone who can bring a different approach. I do believe this is a first step," he said.

Both representatives say the agency needs to bring in someone from outside the agency to effect real change.

"I think someone from the outside comes in with a fresh approach. At least look at them," Sanders said.

Other lawmakers aren't so sure and say there are candidates who have suggested reform that should be considered as well.