SECTION 1. There shall be a working group on matters related to Adverse Childhood Experiences in Massachusetts for the purpose of identifying needs and resources to address childhood trauma, as well as to identify the gaps in response, prevention, and resiliency-building in those who experience childhood trauma. The group shall be comprised of fifteen diverse members across the Commonwealth.

The Secretary of the Executive Office of Health and Human Services shall recommend one member from the Department of Youth Services, the Department of Children and Families, and the Office of the Child Advocate. Members appointed in this manner shall have demonstrated expertise in program assessment, children’s development, childhood trauma and knowledge of community and statewide initiatives to support children’s growth and development into healthy, thriving adults. The Commissioner of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall appoint one member. Three members shall be appointed by three different organizations that serve children who have experienced trauma; one of these organizations shall serve Western Massachusetts, one shall serve Central Massachusetts, and one shall serve Eastern Massachusetts.

Prior to installation of the Commission, the Executive Office of Health and Human Services shall examine the recommended list of committee members to ensure statewide representation, adequate expertise in terms of quantitative, qualitative, data gathering, and lived experience.

The group shall (i) identify by service area existing intervention programs for children and families and those populations served by each program, including the effectiveness of identified programs (ii) determine whether there are any statewide, regional, socio-economic gaps in services for intervention on behalf of children and families (iii) assess previous and ongoing initiatives within the state pertaining to childhood trauma, including any gains achieved (iv) consider, if necessary, a legislative proposal that targets the use of evidence-based interventions for children and families based upon the strengths and weaknesses of existing services; (v) determine the fiscal impact and staffing needs related to any changes to state services proposed by the group, including those that affect public schools.

The group shall hold its first meeting within 90 days from the effective date of this act. The group shall issue a final report containing findings and legislative recommendations with the House Clerk and House Senate on or before January 15th, 2021.