Bill > S124

This bill aims to enhance child welfare protections in Massachusetts. The key provisions of the bill include: 1. Creating an education manager and education coordinators within the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to support the educational needs and success of children under DCF's care. 2. Requiring DCF to issue an annual report providing detailed information on the department's performance, operations, and outcomes for children and families. The bill also requires quarterly data profiles and notification of the legislature on significant data changes. 3. Expanding the powers and duties of the Office of the Child Advocate, including the ability to intervene in juvenile court proceedings and examine issues of disproportionality within the child welfare system. 4. Establishing state and local child fatality review teams to help decrease the incidence of preventable child fatalities and near fatalities. 5. Establishing a "Bill of Rights" for children in foster care, outlining their rights related to safety, family connections, healthcare, education, and other important areas. 6. Enhancing reporting and oversight requirements for DCF, including on fair hearings, medical/psychiatric staffing, and caseload data. The bill aims to improve outcomes, transparency, and accountability within the state's child welfare system.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/S124