Bill > H3221

This bill aims to facilitate the implementation of the federal Family First Prevention Services Act in Massachusetts. It defines key terms such as "candidate for foster care," "child care institution," "evidence-based services," and "trauma-informed" to align with the federal law. The bill requires the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to develop written prevention plans for children at risk of entering foster care and pregnant or parenting foster youth, and to provide evidence-based, trauma-informed prevention services to implement these plans. It also sets guidelines for placing children in the least restrictive environment, including the involvement of a family and permanency team, and allows for placement with a parent residing in a licensed residential family-based treatment facility for substance abuse. The bill also establishes a task force to oversee the implementation of the Family First Act in Massachusetts.

Health and Social Services, Military Affairs and Security

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H3221