Bill > S64

This bill proposes to amend existing Massachusetts law to remove the provision that considered physical dependence upon an addictive drug at birth as a form of child neglect that must be reported. Instead, it requires healthcare providers to notify the state's Department of Children and Families about infants affected by in-utero substance exposure or fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, without including the names or identifying information of the parents or infants, and without triggering a child abuse or neglect report or any prosecution. The goal of these changes is to provide support for families affected by substance use disorders without the threat of punitive action.