Establishes a standardized maltreatment coding system for categorizing abuse and neglect cases in Massachusetts.

The bill mandates the creation of a comprehensive maltreatment coding system by the Department of Children and Families. This system will standardize the categorization of abuse and neglect cases by severity during the initial investigation phase. Categories include parental abuse, imminent risk of serious harm, labor trafficking, emotional abuse, neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and exploitation. The system will also include coding for abuse related to sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.

Establishes a standardized maltreatment coding system for categorizing abuse and neglect cases in Massachusetts.

The bill mandates the creation of a comprehensive maltreatment coding system by the Department of Children and Families. This system will standardize the categorization of abuse and neglect cases by severity during the initial investigation phase. Categories include parental abuse, imminent risk of serious harm, labor trafficking, emotional abuse, neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and exploitation. The system will also include coding for abuse related to sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.