An Act clarifying the child advocate’s authority to access juvenile records

This bill clarifies and expands the Massachusetts Child Advocate's authority to access records related to children in state care or receiving state services. It specifically allows the Child Advocate to obtain data on juvenile arrests and court proceedings (like arraignments and dispositions), access facility records and electronic systems (including juvenile court and criminal justice data), and review systemwide services such as child abuse responses and mental health support without cost. The bill requires state agencies, courts, and probation services to provide this access and permits the Child Advocate to inspect and copy relevant records to assess service effectiveness. These changes aim to improve the Child Advocate's ability to evaluate child welfare systems and report findings to the governor and legislature.