DSS Director Nominee Clears Another Hurdle

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Columbia , S.C. (WOLO) — The Governor’s nominee to take over the Department of Social Services is one step closer to confirmation. Susan Alford’s nomination was approved Wednesday by a full Senate committee. An hour is all it took for a full Senate committee to unanimously approve Susan Alford to take over the Department of Social Services. “We’ve got a chance to really improve child welfare in South Carolina in a way that’s never been done before, it’s tragic it took the events of the last couple years but now the challenge is on her, us, and the hardworking people at this agency to make this right,” said Sen. Lourie. Alford’s approval didn’t come easy. Members of the committee addressed many issues surrounding the crippled agency, after an investigation revealed excessive caseloads, child deaths, and high turnover. “Ms. Alford, I think I speak for colleagues when I say, the Department of Social Services has been a major issue in the state of South Carolina and even nationally,” said Sen. Kimpson. Several Senators specifically pressed Alford on her plans to improve the issue of high turnover at the agency. “I think the root cause really has to get at case load reduction,” said Alford. “My experience in looking at turnover in Juvenile Justice and other arenas is when people think they can do meaningful work, they’ll stay with you.” In addition, Senators also asked Alford for assurance that she will make any personnel changes necessary to get the department on the right track. “Leadership is going to be critical for me and I’m committed to making those decisions, some of them will be tough decisions, but I’m committed to making the ones that are the right ones,” said Alford. Before taking it to a vote, the Committee assured Alford the DSS will not be forgotten if she becomes director. “We’re going to keep watching and we’re going to continue to have committee meetings and we’re going to expect reports,” said Sen. Shealy. The process for Alford isn’t over yet, her selection will next go to the Senate for approval.