Bill > H273

This bill proposes to establish a comprehensive maltreatment coding system for the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families to standardize the categorization of child abuse and neglect cases. The coding system would create a method for classifying instances of abuse and neglect by severity during initial investigation, with specific categories including parental abuse, imminent risk of serious harm, labor trafficking, emotional abuse, neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and exploitation. The bill uniquely requires the coding system to include additional nuanced categories related to abuse connected to sexual orientation, gender identity, expression, and racial discrimination, particularly for youth not living with their original family. The system would be applied when a case is first opened and used alongside existing software to help assess and evaluate ongoing cases. The department would be required to review and update these coding categories at least every two years, ensuring the system remains current and responsive to emerging understanding of child welfare issues. This approach aims to provide a more detailed and comprehensive method for tracking and understanding child maltreatment, potentially improving intervention and support strategies.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H273