Summary: HR 6156, introduced by Representatives Casimiro and Noret on April 02, proposes the creation of a special legislative commission tasked with studying and evaluating the educational outcomes for children in state care, particularly those in the custody of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families. The commission will consist of 17 members, including representatives from the House of Representatives, state education officials, educators, and individuals with personal experience in foster care. The primary goal of the commission is to assess the current state of educational outcomes for these children and to develop actionable recommendations for improvement, focusing on those in alternative family settings or foster care.
The commission is required to meet promptly after its formation, select co-chairpersons, and consult with relevant experts as needed. It will gather information from various state departments and agencies to support its work. The commission is expected to report its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly by July 1, 2026, and will dissolve on August 15, 2026. Members of the commission will serve without compensation. The bill has been referred to the House Education committee.