Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Streamlines All Licensing Functions

HARRISBURG, Pa., Aug. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Department of Public Welfare is streamlining the licensing functions of several of its program offices into a single licensing bureau to ensure the health and safety of Pennsylvania's most vulnerable populations, Secretary Gary D. Alexander said today.

Licensing functions are being consolidated into a single administrative bureau within the department's Office of Administration. The change will result in consistent licensing procedures that will ensure public health and safety while reducing the size and cost of government.

"This streamlining effort will create a more effective licensing system and eliminate red-tape for private businesses that work with us," said Alexander. "We have a responsibility to serve all Pennsylvanian citizens by ensuring their health, safety and well-being."

The consolidation will increase the department's efficiency by eliminating duplicative administrative structures and improving its regulatory protection of vulnerable populations. In addition, the change will provide better, more consistent decision-making for regulatory application, interpretation and enforcement, particularly for human services providers that serve multiple populations. 

Now underway, the initiative's first phase involves Licensing Management and Research (licensing databases and managerial support), and Adult Residential Licensing (personal care homes) from the Office of Administration; Community Home, Family Living Home, Adult Training Facility, and Vocational Facility licensing from the Office of Developmental Programs; and Child Residential Licensing from the Office of Children, Youth and Families, and Assisted Living licensing from the Office of Long Term Living. Other department licensing functions will be included at later dates.

For more information about the Department of Public Welfare, visit www.dpw.state.pa.us. Pennsylvanians who suspect welfare fraud should call 1-800- 932-0582.

Media contact: Anne Bale or Donna Kirker Morgan, 717-425-7606

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare