The bill proposes an appropriation of $40,000,000 from the general fund for fiscal year 2026, specifically allocated to the commissioner of children, youth, and families. This funding is designated for improvements to the Social Services Information System (SSIS), with the aim of developing and implementing a modernization plan or a replacement for the existing system. The bill emphasizes the importance of collaborative planning with counties and Tribal Nations that utilize SSIS, ensuring that the enhancements directly benefit child welfare casework.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that the appropriated funds must be exclusively used for the modernization efforts of SSIS and cannot be diverted for unrelated changes or for other information technology systems within the Department of Human Services or the Department of Children, Youth, and Families. This funding is characterized as a one-time appropriation, indicating that it is not intended to be a recurring expense in future budgets.