Loading chat...

MA H267

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/27/2025

Primary Sponsor

Joan Meschino

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

194th General Court

AI Summary

  • Department of Children and Families must notify a child's or young adult's attorney at least 5 business days before non-emergency placement changes or hospitalizations, and within 1 business day after emergency changes

  • DCF must notify the attorney within 1 business day when a child is the subject of a Section 51A report (abuse/neglect report) or when such a report raises questions about placement or service provider suitability

  • Attorney notification required within 1 business day when DCF learns of a child's or young adult's arrest, involvement in criminal proceedings, school suspension, or potential expulsion proceedings

  • DCF must promulgate implementing regulations within 6 months of the act's effective date

  • Sponsored by Representatives Joan Meschino (3rd Plymouth) and Colleen M. Garry (36th Middlesex); similar legislation was filed in the 2021-2022 session

Legislative Description

To provide notice to counsel of changes in a child’s placement and other events

Last Action

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means

2/5/2026

Committee Referrals

Ways and Means2/5/2026
Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities2/27/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available