Bill > S2719

This bill aims to strengthen the Massachusetts foster care review unit (FCRU) by establishing it as an independent entity within the Department of Children and Families (DCF). The key provisions include: 1. The FCRU will conduct administrative case reviews of children in DCF care and young adults under DCF responsibility every 6 months to evaluate their placement, progress, and permanency goals. The reviews will be conducted by a 3-person panel, including a FCRU member, a DCF manager/supervisor, and a trained citizen volunteer. 2. An advisory board will be created to oversee the FCRU, address systemic issues, and make recommendations for improvement. The board will include representatives from various stakeholder groups. 3. The Office of the Child Advocate (OCA) will oversee and monitor the FCRU's practices, make recommendations, and conduct a biannual survey of review participants. 4. The bill also outlines detailed regulations for the conduct of the case reviews, including provisions for appeals and written reports. The overall goal is to enhance the independence, transparency, and accountability of the foster care review process in Massachusetts.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities (J)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2719