Bill > H294

This bill establishes comprehensive surveillance and safety measures for children in out-of-home care facilities managed by the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF). The legislation mandates the installation of surveillance cameras in public spaces of out-of-home care facilities when an abuse allegation is investigated, requiring the cameras to be set up within two business days and remain in place as long as the facility is licensed, though cameras are prohibited in bedrooms and bathrooms of children over four years old. The bill also requires DCF social workers to wear body-worn cameras during investigations and emergency child removals, with consent required when entering private homes. Additionally, the legislation stipulates that foster children over 10 years old will be provided with a free cell phone and a medical alert device containing their essential health information, and mandates annual comprehensive medical evaluations for foster children. The bill aims to increase transparency, accountability, and safety for children in the foster care system, with provisions for DCF to report on the usage and outcomes of these new measures. The act is set to take effect in 2024, and non-compliance could result in a waiver of legal immunity for the involved parties.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H294