Massachusetts H266 aims to minimize trauma to children and families by allowing the Department of Children and Families to take immediate custody of.

Massachusetts H266 modifies the Department of Children and Families' procedures for taking custody of children in immediate danger. The bill allows the department to take temporary custody of a child if there is reasonable cause to believe the child is suffering from serious abuse or neglect and immediate removal is necessary to protect the child. The department must obtain judicial approval within four hours. The bill also mandates quarterly reports on the number of cases, the time taken to request court approval, and the number of cases where approval was requested late.

Massachusetts H266 aims to minimize trauma to children and families by allowing the Department of Children and Families to take immediate custody of.

Massachusetts H266 modifies the Department of Children and Families' procedures for taking custody of children in immediate danger. The bill allows the department to take temporary custody of a child if there is reasonable cause to believe the child is suffering from serious abuse or neglect and immediate removal is necessary to protect the child. The department must obtain judicial approval within four hours. The bill also mandates quarterly reports on the number of cases, the time taken to request court approval, and the number of cases where approval was requested late.