Lawmakers Continue Discussions on Child Welfare Department Overhaul
A proposal to establish a standalone Department of Child and Family Services in Maine has faced setbacks in the Legislature, but lawmakers say conversations will continue.
The bill, introduced by Sen. Jeff Timberlake (R-Turner), had bipartisan support in the Senate but failed to come up for a vote in the House. Opponents of the bill, including Rep. Michele Meyer (D-Eliot), argue that it would harm existing systems by separating child welfare services from other family support programs.
The Mills administration also raised concerns about the cost and potential impact of the new department.
Despite the setbacks, Timberlake and other proponents believe broader structural changes are needed to address the issues facing the Office of Child and Family Services within the Department of Health and Human Services.
A separate Blue Ribbon Commission is also examining the delivery of child welfare services and is expected to issue a report on its findings by November.
Bill Background
The bill would have created a Department of Child and Family Services separate from DHHS to oversee child welfare, children’s behavioral health, and early childhood services with its own commissioner who reports to the governor.
It passed the Senate in March with bipartisan support in a 22-8 vote. It then went to the House, where Meyer made a motion to table that was approved on April 9.
Arguments for and Against the Bill
Proponents of the bill argue that it would improve child safety and address the issues facing the Office of Child and Family Services.
Opponents argue that it would duplicate services, increase costs, and harm existing systems.
Next Steps
Timberlake said he may end up bringing his bill back if DHHS does not make significant improvements.
Lawmakers will continue to look at the issue in meetings over the summer, and the Blue Ribbon Commission is expected to issue a report on its findings by November.
