An Act To Exclude Poverty As A Factor When Determining Instances Of Willful Neglect Or Abuse Of A Child

This bill amends Maine's child protection laws to exclude poverty as a factor when determining child abuse or neglect. It revises definitions in the Child and Family Services Act to clarify that "willful neglect" or "abuse" does not include circumstances caused solely by poverty, such as lack of food, shelter, or healthcare due to financial hardship. The bill also requires child protection agencies to detail specific efforts made, their duration, and outcomes when seeking to prevent a child's removal from home. These changes apply to all child welfare cases handled under Maine law, affecting how officials assess neglect and make decisions about child safety.