This process ought to focus on outcomes the state wishes to produce, not programs or organizations. This process ought to establish a date certain by which the system envisioned by the strategic planning process will be put into place. All major tasks are integrated service delivery standards, policy development, and funding. The system would promote consistent treatment and services statewide. The system would continue the national trend of having state governments assume responsibility for human services.
Most federal laws hold states primarily responsible for federal human service programs.
For this process to be effective, it must involve the governments with the most experience and background in human services. In particular, the state s counties can play a very valuable role in this process. The state and county governments ought to join collaborative in the statewide strategic planning process. These governments ought to work together to define the outcomes to be sought and the measures by which success in achieving these outcomes will be assessed. The Commission envisions that this strategic planning process will sort out the responsibilities of the different players in the human services system.