Lawmakers debated those proposed changes in a study committee Wednesday.

Of the 59 deaths, 24 were from abuse and 35 were neglect. Vehicles were involved in most of the deaths attributed to neglect. The most common cause of death from abuse was head trauma.

Indiana lawmakers aren't happy with some of the recommendations from an independent evaluation of the Department of Child Services.

Many of the recommendations from a recent independent evaluation of DCS were also in past reports that went unheeded.

The Holcomb administration hired an independent investigator to evaluate DCS after former director Mary Beth Bonaventura's resignation letter accused Holcomb of putting children's lives at risk.

Indiana lawmakers will consider a number of controversial issues in study committees this year - including hate crimes and the Department of Child Services.

DCS Director Terry Stigdon says the agency will have a better idea of what resources it needs after an outside review is completed in June.

The rate of Indiana children in foster care is more than double the national average. Advocates hope upcoming policy changes will aid the foster care system.

Consultants Sue Steib and Paul Vincent stress feedback gathered so far doesn't mean the problems identified are statewide issues.

Sen. Eddie Melton says his proposed commission is not meant to interfere with an ongoing review of the Department of Child Services.