Access Response Time Changes Going Statewide January 29, 2026 A huge “Thank you!” to the eleven agencies that participated and have enthusiastically supported the 14-month Access Response Time Pilot, which ended December 31, 2025. Due to its success, the changes will roll out statewide this June! While the pilot itself is over, the participating agencies have all opted to continue using the new response time process between now and the statewide launch. There will be no changes to the way screening decisions are made. After a CPS report is screened in, agencies will use a concise list of factors to determine the response time assignment. Pilot agencies found that this is a much simpler process than trying to identify Present Danger Threats or likely Impending Danger threats at Access. Additionally, we will shift to two response times: “Within 24 hours” and “Within 5 business days.” Agencies will continue to decide when to respond within those timeframes, going out sooner when something in the report indicates a faster response is needed or taking time to plan and contact families ahead of the first face-to-face when that flexibility is available. To learn about the pilot, see this informational resource. Stay tuned for more information! Before June, CPS professionals can expect: Training from PDS Materials for supervisors to support agency staff through the changes Pre- and post-launch support sessions to answer questions in real time Supporting materials to help CPS agencies talk about the changes with community partners
