Gov. Tom Wolf on July 31 issued an executive order to reform state services and systems accessed by Pennsylvania’s “most vulnerable residents” in the wake of reports about abuses, including violence against children at the Glen Mills Schools, a reform school for boys located in Delaware County.

Executive Order 2019-05 establishes an Office of Advocacy and Reform within the governor’s office. The office is led by an executive director, includes a new child-advocate position and integrates the ombudsman for long-term care. According to a Wolf administration statement, it will be steered by a Council on Reform including 25 voting members appointed by Wolf that has been asked to examine protections for vulnerable populations from multiple perspectives.

“Today is the beginning of a process to acknowledge Pennsylvania, over the past few decades, has failed to maintain our systems to protect and help our most vulnerable residents, and that must change,” Wolf said. “We’ve heard and seen the horror stories. Many stem from a government too eager to serve the needs of institutions and too reluctant to serve the needs of people. I am taking executive action to make changes that will stop the system from failing Pennsylvanians most in need of our protection and care. This process builds on and incorporates important reforms passed and proposed by the General Assembly, and begins what I hope to be a productive but honest conversation about how we can move forward to protect Pennsylvanians and put people first.”

Both the Council on Reform and the Office of Advocacy and Reform will identify reforms needed for Pennsylvania to better protect and support individuals relying upon public services and assistance.

The Council on Reform held its first meeting immediately following the July 31 announcement. A report from the group is due by Nov. 1.

Wolf also promised to pursue reforms in legislation when the General Assembly returns to session.