Sec. 1. 22 MRSA c. 1071, sub-c. 14 is enacted to read:

SUBCHAPTER XIV

CHILDREN IN NEED OF SERVICES PROGRAM

§4095.__Definitions

As used in this subchapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings.

1.__Court.__"Court" means the Family Division of District Court.

2.__Intake officer.__"Intake officer" means an agent of the department authorized to perform all casework functions established by this subchapter for a child alleged to be in need of supervision.__"Intake officer" may include community-based agencies contracted by the department.

§4096.__Program

1.__Established.__The Children in Need of Services Program is established for any child 15 years of age and under who:

A.__Has been abandoned or abused by the child's parents, guardian or other custodian;

B.__Is without proper care or subsistence, education or medical or other care necessary for the child's well-being; or

C.__Is without or beyond the control of the child's parents, guardian or other custodian.

§4097.__Preliminary investigation; safety plan; actions

1.__Preliminary investigation.__When an intake officer is informed by a parent, law enforcement officer, school official, social service professional or mental health professional that a child is or may be in need of supervision, the intake officer shall make a preliminary investigation within 72 hours to determine whether further action should be taken.

2.__Safety plan.__If a child is determined to be in need of services, the intake officer, within 72 hours from that determination, shall develop a safety plan and arrange for the child services consisting of housing, medical care, nutritional care and education.