This bill amends sections of the General Laws in Chapter 14-1, which pertains to proceedings in Family Court, specifically addressing the temporary detention and commitment of juveniles. It introduces new provisions that prohibit the family court from detaining or committing any juvenile under the age of twelve years to the training school for any offense, except in cases of murder, first-degree sexual assault, or attempts to commit such offenses. Additionally, the court must determine that there are no other reasonable placement options to ensure the safety of the juvenile or the public before committing a child under twelve for these serious offenses.

The bill also includes a provision that the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) is responsible for investigating potential placements with relatives when a child is taken into temporary custody due to allegations of abuse or neglect. It mandates that DCYF conduct assessments within thirty days and allows relatives to petition the court for review if their request for placement is denied. This legislation aims to prioritize the welfare of younger children in the juvenile justice system while ensuring that serious offenses are still addressed appropriately.