THC Exposures Among Infants in Michigan’s Child Welfare System

This project aims to examine the consequences and impacts of current Michigan policy on drug exposure among children in the child welfare system. Specifically, the project will investigate the referral of mothers to Child Protective Services if their newborn tests positive for THC and the extent to which they are substantiated for child abuse. Additionally, the project will examine the potential existence of racial biases in the referral system and estimate the resources spent on investigations relative to the services provided. The results of this research project will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of current Michigan policy on drug exposure and the potential need for revision or improvement to better protect children in the child welfare system.