Bill > S2602

This bill establishes the Harmony Commission, a comprehensive study group dedicated to examining and improving the welfare of children involved in care and protection legal cases. The commission will be composed of 25 members from diverse backgrounds, including child welfare experts, legal professionals, former judges, foster care alumni, foster parents, representatives from various advocacy organizations, and government officials. The commission's primary mandate is to conduct an in-depth study of how children's rights and best interests are currently handled in care and protection cases, with a specific focus on analyzing how these cases disproportionately impact vulnerable populations such as children of color, immigrant children, children with disabilities, LGBTQ+ children, trauma survivors, and children living in poverty. The study will comprehensively review existing legal frameworks, policies, and practices, and aims to develop recommendations to better protect and serve children in the legal system. The commission is required to hold at least three public hearings in geographically diverse areas, solicit public input, and submit a detailed report with findings, recommendations, and potential draft legislation by January 1, 2026. All commission members will serve without compensation, and the report will be publicly posted on the Department of Children and Families website.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2602