The state of Ohio serves as a relevant example of the types of systemic issues within CPS that can contribute to child instability and, potentially, disappearance from care. Ohio’s child welfare system is administered by county-level Public Children Services Agencies (PCSAs). These agencies are responsible for investigating reports of abuse and neglect, implementing safety and case plans, and making “reasonable efforts” to prevent removal or reunify families. Mandated reporters are required to report suspicions of child maltreatment, and PCSAs utilize a differential response system to address these reports. Despite this framework, legal challenges and oversight reports in Ohio point to several areas of concern…