The proposed bill amends Chapter 119 of the General Laws by adding Section 23D, which establishes a comprehensive bill of rights for children in foster care. This new section defines key terms such as "child," "child-specific family," and "department," and mandates that the Department of Children and Families (DCF) provide a document outlining the rights of children in its care to parents, foster parents, and the children themselves. The DCF is required to create a simplified version of these rights, explain them in a developmentally appropriate manner, and ensure translation into the languages spoken by the child and their family. The rights include safety, connections to family and community, access to healthcare and education, and resources for well-being, all aimed at ensuring dignity and respect for children in foster care.
Additionally, the bill emphasizes the rights of children aged 14 and older as they transition to adulthood, requiring the DCF to inform them and their attorneys if they stop receiving benefits. It outlines the department's responsibilities in creating a comprehensive transition plan that covers education, housing, vocational support, and healthcare, while allowing children to continue receiving services until age 23. The bill also prohibits retaliation against children for asserting their rights and provides mechanisms for reporting violations, including the right to contact the ombudsperson. The DCF must submit an annual report on complaints and violations, promoting transparency and accountability in enforcing these rights, ultimately aiming to create a supportive framework for youth in foster care as they move towards independent living.