WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

S 125

End Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Providers Act

119th Congress Introduced by Josh Hawley

Bill S 125 creates an electronic backpack for foster children's educational records, ensuring easy access for caregivers and schools to support their learning needs.

Introduced in Senate
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 125

Summary of Bill S 125: An Act Creating an Electronic Backpack for Foster Children’s Educational Records

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 125 aims to establish an electronic backpack system for foster children in Massachusetts. This initiative is designed to enhance the educational stability of foster children by providing a centralized electronic repository for their educational records. The bill seeks to ensure that vital educational information is readily accessible to authorized individuals involved in the care and education of foster children.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several significant changes to existing laws, specifically amending Chapter 71 of the General Laws. Key provisions include:

  • Definition of Terms:

    • Foster child or youth: Defined as a child under the care of the Department of Children and Families (DCF) or a young adult with a voluntary placement agreement.
    • Electronic backpack: An electronic repository for educational records of foster children.

  • Creation of the Electronic Backpack:

    • The Commissioner of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, in consultation with the Office of the Child Advocate and DCF, is tasked with developing and implementing the electronic backpack system.

  • Contents of the Electronic Backpack:

    • The electronic backpack will include:
    • Educational records (transcripts, attendance records, grade-level performance)
    • Contact information for educational providers and DCF case workers
    • Individual education plans (IEPs), if applicable
    • Medical consent information
    • Notes from school personnel regarding the child's welfare and educational decisions

  • Access to the Electronic Backpack:

    • Access will be granted to:
    • Authorized educational decision-makers
    • Teachers and school administrators
    • Individuals authorized to consent to medical care
    • Medical care providers, as necessary

  • Collaboration with DCF:

    • The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will work with DCF to develop policies ensuring the educational needs of foster children are met across all school districts.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:
- Foster children and youth: By providing them with a streamlined way to maintain their educational records.
- Educational institutions: Schools and teachers will have easier access to essential information to support foster children's educational needs.
- Caregivers and decision-makers: Individuals responsible for making educational and medical decisions for foster children will benefit from having comprehensive records at their disposal.

Implementation Timeline

  • The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is required to implement the electronic backpack program within one year of the bill's passage.

Legislative Status

  • The bill was introduced on February 27, 2025, and has since been referred to the committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.
  • A hearing is scheduled for July 8, 2025.
  • As of November 3, 2025, the bill has been accompanied by a new draft, S2659.

Conclusion

Bill S 125 represents a significant step towards improving the educational experience of foster children in Massachusetts by ensuring that their educational records are organized, accessible, and secure. This initiative aims to facilitate better educational outcomes and support for some of the most vulnerable children in the state.

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

Sign in to ask a question.