Bill > S2984

This bill aims to improve accountability and transparency in the child welfare system in Massachusetts. Key provisions include: - Requiring the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to issue annual reports on its performance, including data on safety, permanency, and well-being outcomes for children and families served, disaggregated by demographic factors. The reports will be subject to public comment and review by the Office of the Child Advocate. - Mandating quarterly data reporting by DCF on key metrics like reports, investigations, and placement of children. - Establishing a 5-year plan with numerical targets for DCF's performance in areas like safety and permanency, with annual updates. - Enhancing reporting requirements for DCF during state emergencies to track the impact on operations and consumers. - Expanding the Child Advocate's ability to investigate and publicly report on multi-system failures that contribute to harm to children. - Requiring DCF to establish an internal review process prior to major case decisions like removal, reunification, or termination of parental rights. The bill aims to increase oversight, data transparency, and accountability within the child welfare system in Massachusetts.

Budget and Finance

Senate Committee on Ways and Means (S)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S2984