Maine Governor Announces $8 Million In Child Welfare Reform Proposals

Maine is considering the governor’s proposals and request for $8 million in funding to strengthen the child welfare system. The proposals implement expert-recommendations to improve child safety. The proposals are in the form of legislation and initiatives in the supplemental budget. The legislation sets to strengthen the Office of the Child Welfare Ombudsman. The budget initiatives are intended funding programs to bridge gaps in the child welfare workforce and to strengthen family supports. Governor Janet Mills unveiled the proposals on February 7, 2022. Including funding to strengthen the Office of Maine’s Child Welfare Ombudsman, these proposed budget . . .