Bill > H2899

This bill introduces several key provisions to support social workers in Massachusetts. First, it expands the list of eligible job classifications for certain benefits to include various social work roles such as clinical social workers, social work technicians, and human service coordinators. Second, the bill makes social workers at the Department of Children and Families (DCF) eligible for a specific benefit starting January 1, 2025, with the Massachusetts State Board of Retirement to develop implementation regulations. Third, the bill establishes a field placement grant program administered by the executive office of health and human services to support Masters of Social Work (MSW) students, particularly those from historically marginalized and low-income communities. The grant program will provide monthly stipends ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 based on the student's year of field placement, with priority given to first-generation college students and underrepresented communities. Fourth, the bill allows licensed independent clinical social workers to receive up to 8 hours of continuing education credit for providing one-on-one supervision. Finally, the bill creates a special commission to investigate the potential development of a new certification specifically for child welfare workers at the Department of Children and Families, examining alternative qualifications and licensure requirements beyond traditional social work licensure.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2899