MO HB1381

Establishes a Joint Committee on Children's Services Oversight composed of 7 senate members and 7 house members appointed by their respective leadership, with no party represented by more than 4 members from either chamber.

Committee shall review state policies on children and youth, study problems including teen pregnancy, educational underachievement, substance abuse, child abuse and neglect, human trafficking of minors, and homelessness.

Committee authorized to create subcommittees, employ staff including an executive director with social services and child welfare experience, and contract for technical or professional services subject to appropriations.

Committee must meet at least 8 times per year; commissioner of education must report twice yearly and director of department of social services must report at least 5 times yearly to the committee.

Committee shall submit annual reports to the general assembly by December 31 of each year the legislature convenes in regular session, with copies sent to relevant state and local agencies.