The bill seeks to improve child welfare protections by amending various sections of the General Laws related to the Department of Children and Families (DCF). Key provisions include the appointment of an education director to establish an education unit within the department, focusing on educational stability and success for children in care. The bill mandates the issuance of annual and quarterly reports detailing the department's performance, including demographic data and educational outcomes, to enhance transparency and accountability. Additionally, it establishes a five-year performance plan with numerical targets for safety, permanence, and well-being, which will be updated annually and made publicly available.

The legislation also introduces significant amendments to the Child Advocate's office, including the removal of outdated definitions and the establishment of a state child fatality review team. This team will work to understand and prevent child fatalities and near fatalities, while ensuring confidentiality of information shared during meetings. The bill further allows plaintiffs who have reached the age of majority to request extensions of protective orders and repeals certain procedural requirements related to these orders. Overall, the amendments aim to strengthen oversight and effectiveness in child welfare services, with a focus on improving outcomes for children and families under the care of the DCF.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 6-172, 18B-6A, 18C-1, 38-2A, 119-23, 119-29, 210-5E