Raised Bill No. 155 mandates the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to submit an annual report starting in 2027, detailing various aspects of its services, including utilization by race and ethnicity, sibling visitation, and compliance with statutory provisions. The bill also requires the Commissioners of Children and Families, Social Services, and Mental Health and Addiction Services to evaluate the Behavioral Health Partnership and report on its outcomes and cost savings by October 1, 2026, and annually thereafter. Key changes include the insertion of specific deadlines for reporting and the removal of previous reporting requirements, enhancing clarity and accountability in the DCF's operations.

Additionally, the bill establishes a Mental and Behavioral Health Treatment Fund to assist families with costs related to mental health treatments not covered by insurance, with eligibility contingent on prior denial of coverage. It modifies the response process for child abuse reports by allowing for family assessment responses without formal investigations in certain cases. The bill also emphasizes the importance of community-based services for at-risk youth and outlines visitation rights for children in DCF custody. Significant language changes include the repeal of certain reporting requirements and the replacement of terms related to minority contact in the juvenile justice system, all aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of DCF's services. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 10-19m