An Act to establish an office of youth development

This bill proposes creating a new state-wide Office of Youth Development within the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to support young people aged seven to eighteen. The office would launch pilot programs in seven cities, including Boston and Springfield, offering year-round activities outside of school hours to help prevent issues like violence, drug abuse, and teen pregnancy. These programs would be run by community health centers and focus on building practical skills, promoting positive behavior, and connecting youth with job opportunities. A dedicated state fund would be established to finance the initiative for at least five years, with Springfield designated as one of the first locations to receive services.