Bill > H3042

This bill proposes several key provisions: 1. It requires the Commissioner of the Department of Children and Families to adapt, implement, and maintain a free, standardized online training program for all mandated reporters (such as teachers, social workers, and medical professionals) to recognize and report suspected child abuse and neglect. This training must be completed annually. 2. It mandates that beginning on July 1, 2017, any mandated reporter who applies for or renews a professional license must provide evidence of successful completion of this training. Successful completion of the training may count towards continuing education unit requirements. 3. It establishes a Child Abuse and Neglect Expert Review Panel under the purview of the Child Advocate to review the repeated entry of any child into the care of the Department of Children and Families. The panel will determine if any actions can be taken to protect the child from further harm or if any agency regulations should be modified. The panel will also report on any system-wide trends and make recommendations for policy changes to address the repeated abuse and neglect of children.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/H3042