ME LD555

Creates a new cabinet-level Department of Child and Family Services, separating child welfare functions from the Department of Health and Human Services, effective July 1, 2026

Transfers responsibility for child welfare, children's behavioral health, early childhood services, Head Start, child care, maternal and child health programs, child support enforcement, and services for children with disabilities to the new department

Establishes a Commissioner of Child and Family Services appointed by the Governor, subject to legislative review and Senate confirmation, with salary in Range 91 alongside other department commissioners

Requires all employees, records, property, contracts, rules, and funding related to child and family services to transfer from DHHS to the new department, with employees retaining all rights, benefits, and seniority

Mandates the new commissioner submit an implementation report by January 31, 2026, and requires legislation consolidating relevant statutes into the new Title 22-B by November 30, 2026