The bill amends Section 42-72-5 of the General Laws in Chapter 42-72, designating the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) as the primary agency responsible for overseeing and administering comprehensive behavioral health services for children, including those with serious emotional disturbances and developmental or functional disabilities. It emphasizes the importance of prevention and intervention services across various areas, including child welfare, behavioral health, and juvenile justice.

The bill introduces new responsibilities for DCYF, including the development, oversight, and maintenance of a comprehensive, integrated home and community-based continuum of care tailored to meet the developmental, emotional, and behavioral needs of children and families. It mandates that all behavioral health services for children be delivered through a comprehensive system of care that is child-centered, family-driven, accessible, coordinated, and culturally responsive.

Additionally, the bill requires DCYF to collaborate with the state Medicaid agency to ensure adherence to the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) provisions. It establishes a governance structure for coordination with other state agencies, such as the Department of Health, the Department of Human Services, and the Department of Education, while maintaining a child-centered focus in service delivery.

The bill also includes a provision for a structured hiring process for social caseworkers and child protective investigators, which will remain in effect until March 15, 2026. This process includes eligibility screening, civil service examinations offered at least three times a month, and a diverse interview panel. An interim report detailing the hiring process outcomes is mandated by March 15, 2024, to assess the effectiveness of the new hiring structure.

This act would take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2606: 42-72-5