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Bill > H1629


MA H1629

MA H1629
Relative to the best interests of children


summary

Introduced
03/29/2021
In Committee
03/29/2021
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
12/31/2022

Introduced Session

192nd General Court

Bill Summary

Relative to the care and protection of children and certain court determinations. The Judiciary.

AI Summary

This bill aims to make the best interests of the child the paramount consideration in child welfare cases in Massachusetts. It establishes a clear policy that the best interests of the child must have precedence at every stage of court proceedings, including decisions about removing a child from the home, keeping the child in the home, or reuniting the child with their family. The bill outlines factors the Department of Children and Families and the courts must consider in determining the best interests of the child, such as the ability of the parent to provide for the child's needs, the child's relationship with potential caregivers, and the child's own preferences. It also sets timelines for permanency hearings to ensure timely decision-making in the child's best interests.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (13)

Last Action

Accompanied a study order, see H4844 (on 06/09/2022)

bill text


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