Department of Social Services
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill clarifies the roles and responsibilities of legal representatives within the Department of Social Services (DSS) in child abuse and neglect cases. It mandates that these representatives prioritize child welfare and safety when making recommendations and decisions. Furthermore, it grants DSS legal representatives sole discretion over decisions regarding filing child abuse or neglect petitions and managing related proceedings in family court.
Key provisions
- Legal representatives of DSS must prioritize child welfare and safety in all recommendations and decisions.
- DSS legal representatives have sole discretion over filing child abuse or neglect petitions.
- DSS legal representatives have sole discretion over decisions regarding the pursuit, settlement, or appeal of child abuse or neglect cases.
Who is affected
- Department of Social Services (DSS)
- Child Welfare System
- Family Court
- Children and Families Involved in Abuse and Neglect Proceedings
Notable changes
- Clarifies the prioritization of child welfare and safety in DSS legal representation.
- Establishes sole discretion for DSS legal representatives in key decisions related to child abuse and neglect cases.
Fiscal impact
This bill will have no expenditure impact for DSS or Judicial. DSS indicated that this bill clarifies the roles and responsibilities of DSS counsel, relative to case management staff, in determining whether to advance with child welfare court proceedings. Therefore, this bill does not modify the responsibilities of the agency. Additionally, Judicial anticipates any change due to the bill in family court proceedings can be managed within existing appropriations.
Bill text
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