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Bill

HD 1284

An Act to establish a Massachusetts children’s cabinet

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Tony Cabral

Summary of HD 1284: An Act to establish a Massachusetts children's cabinet Purpose and IntentThis proposed bill aims to establish a Massachusetts Children's Cabinet to coordinate a

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Bill Summary · HD 1284

Summary of HD 1284: An Act to establish a Massachusetts children's cabinet

Purpose and Intent

This proposed bill aims to establish a Massachusetts Children's Cabinet to coordinate and improve the delivery of services and support for children and families across the state. The cabinet would bring together leaders from key state agencies and departments to develop a comprehensive, collaborative approach to addressing the needs of children in areas such as health, education, social services, and economic security.

Key Provisions

  • Creates the Massachusetts Children's Cabinet, to be chaired by the Lieutenant Governor
  • Cabinet membership includes the Commissioners or Secretaries of the Departments of Early Education and Care, Elementary and Secondary Education, Higher Education, Public Health, Mental Health, Children and Families, Transitional Assistance, and Housing and Community Development
  • Requires the cabinet to:
    • Develop a statewide strategic plan for children's services and programs
    • Coordinate and align policies, programs, and budgets across member agencies
    • Identify gaps, needs, and opportunities to better serve children and families
    • Monitor and report on key outcomes and indicators related to child well-being
  • Establishes the Children's Cabinet Advisory Board to provide input and recommendations
  • Requires the cabinet to submit annual reports to the Governor and state legislature

Affected Parties

  • Children and families across Massachusetts who rely on state services and programs
  • State agencies and departments that work with children, including education, health, social services, and housing
  • Advocacy organizations, service providers, and other stakeholders focused on child and family well-being

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • The bill would take effect 90 days after passage
  • The Children's Cabinet must be convened and hold its first meeting within 120 days of the bill's effective date
  • The cabinet must submit its first statewide strategic plan within one year of its first meeting

Overall, HD 1284 represents a significant effort to improve coordination, collaboration, and outcomes for children and families across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts through the establishment of a high-level, cross-agency cabinet dedicated to this purpose.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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