Bill > H1888

This bill modifies Section 24 of Chapter 119 of the Massachusetts General Laws regarding emergency custody orders in child protection cases. Specifically, the bill outlines the conditions under which a court may issue an emergency order to remove a child from their home, including when there is reasonable cause to believe the child is suffering from serious abuse or neglect, immediate removal is necessary to protect the child, and remaining in the home is contrary to the child's best interests. The court can now transfer custody of the child to the department or a licensed child care agency for up to 72 hours and can also issue additional orders about the child's care and custody. Importantly, the bill requires courts to consider both the potential short-term and long-term harms of removing a child from their home, including the potential trauma caused by such removal, when determining whether continued placement in the home is appropriate. This change aims to ensure a more comprehensive and thoughtful approach to emergency child custody decisions by mandating a holistic assessment of the child's well-being.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1888