Bill > S146

This bill proposes to amend existing child welfare legislation by establishing a comprehensive maltreatment coding system for child abuse investigations. The system would create a standardized method for categorizing different types of abuse and neglect, including parental abuse, imminent risk of serious harm, labor trafficking, emotional abuse, neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and exploitation. The coding system would also include specific categories related to abuse based on sexual orientation, gender identity, expression, and racial discrimination, with the goal of supporting family preservation and acceptance education. The department would be required to apply this coding system when initially opening a case and use it alongside existing software to help assess and evaluate ongoing child welfare cases. Additionally, the bill mandates that the department review and update the coding system categories at least every two years to ensure it remains current and effective. This approach aims to provide a more nuanced and comprehensive method of documenting and understanding child abuse and neglect, potentially improving intervention strategies and support for at-risk children and families.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S146