Bill > H268

This bill amends Massachusetts law to strengthen provisions for keeping siblings together in foster care by requiring the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to make concerted efforts to place siblings and half-siblings together when children are removed from their home. Specifically, the bill mandates that DCF immediately search for relatives when placing a child and attempt to place all siblings together unless there is clear and convincing evidence that joint placement would be unsafe or impractical (such as in cases involving more than four siblings). If siblings cannot be placed together, the department must ensure frequent visitation and ongoing interaction between them, with the court able to review placement decisions. The bill also allows for emergency separation of siblings to avoid immediate harm, but requires DCF to seek court approval within one business day and prove the necessity of separate placements. Furthermore, the department must develop and implement a plan to increase sibling placement options and report annually on its progress. The legislation aims to prioritize maintaining sibling connections and relationships during the foster care process, recognizing the important emotional and developmental benefits of keeping siblings together whenever possible.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H268