ATLANTA (AP) — The interim director of the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services has ordered mandatory overtime to address backlogged child protective services investigations.

DFCS officials said Tuesday that more than 3,300 investigations are overdue and the number accounts for nearly 50 percent of the state's current caseload. Officials say investigations into child safety are supposed to be completed within 45 days.

Interim Director Bobby Cagle says he considers each case a potential risk for vulnerable children.

Officials say reports of child abuse and neglect have risen over the past year from an average of about 6,600 reports to 8,400 reports monthly.

Gov. Nathan Deal authorized funding for an additional 500 caseworkers over the next three years. Department of Human Services spokeswoman Ravae Graham says 175 have been hired so far.