As the state child protective services agency faces continued scrutiny over the death of two toddlers, Democratic Gov. Maggie Hassan signed three bills into law Monday meant to help curb child abuse and neglect.
“Our children are our future,” Hassan said at a bill signing in the State House. “Anytime we miss an opportunity to save a child’s life, it’s a tragedy.”
The legislation is the product of the Commission to Review Child Abuse Fatalities, which formed after the death of 3-year-old Brielle Gage, whose mother was later charged with her murder. The state Division for Children, Youth and Families had been involved with the Nashua family, spurring calls for agency reform.
The legislation Hassan signed allows the division to more easily and quickly remove a child from a dangerous home. It also gives law enforcement greater access to DCYF records and extends the time frame for a court hearing, from 24 to 48 hours, after the state takes a child into protective custody.
Hassan called for an outside review of DCYF in the wake of 21-month-old Sadence Willott’s death last September. Sadence’s mother was charged with murder. DCYF had been involved with that family as well.
Results of the outside review – based on 100 random cases – are expected to come out late this year. Critics have raised concern that the audit won’t include a full review of the cases of Sadence and Brielle. Hassan’s office has said that’s not possible while the criminal cases are ongoing.
The commission – composed of lawmakers, state officials and advocates – will continue meeting this year and next. The group intends to re-file one proposal that was defeated this year, a bill that would have required DCYF keep reports of abuse and neglect on file for longer periods of time.
While commission Chairman David Boutin, a Republican state senator, is not running for re-election, he said the hard work will continue.
“We have one goal in mind,” said Boutin, of Hooksett. “It’s to do everything we can do . . . that will protect our young and most vulnerable.”