The bill amends the General Laws regarding the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) to enhance its functions and responsibilities. It introduces a requirement for the DCYF to notify and cooperate with state and local police in cases of sexual assault on a minor where probable cause exists. The bill also mandates a new hiring process for the department, to be implemented by October 1, 2023. It removes the periodic evaluation of services but inserts a mandate for comprehensive needs assessments of the department's services every five years, with the first due by March 31, 2026. These assessments will be conducted by an in-state academic institution or consulting firm and will be overseen by a newly established committee. The bill maintains many of the department's existing powers and duties, such as licensing group homes and establishing staff training, while also adding responsibilities like administering a juvenile-restitution program and setting goals to reduce long-term foster care.

Significant additions to the bill include definitions and expanded services for "seriously emotionally disturbed children" and those with "functional developmental disabilities," including autism spectrum disorders, extending eligibility for services up to age 21. The bill also requires transition planning for children aging out of the system and allocates specific funding for individuals up to 21 who choose to continue receiving services. Furthermore, the bill outlines the administration of various funds and programs related to foster care and higher education opportunities for youth in care. It establishes a detailed hiring process for social caseworkers and child protective investigators, including eligibility criteria and a scoring system for evaluations, with an interim report due by March 15, 2024. The bill deletes sections (d) and (e) from the current law and will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2705  SUB A: 42-72-5
2705: 42-72-5