Whereas, there is tremendous concern that the existing child protective laws and system are not adequately and consistently protecting the children they were designed to serve; and

Whereas, families and other participants in the system believe their rights and interests are not adequately and consistently taken into account; and

Whereas, a study must be initiated before the 90-day period expires in order that the study may be completed and a report submitted in time for submission to the next legislative session; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore, be it

Sec. 1. Commission established. Resolved: That the Commission to Review the Child Protective System, referred to in this resolve as the "commission," is established; and be it further

Sec. 2. Commission membership. Resolved: That the commission consists of the following 11 members:

1. Two members of the Senate, appointed by the President of the Senate;

2. Three members of the House of Representatives, appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives;

3. An attorney who has experience representing parents in child protective cases, appointed by the President of the Senate;

4. An attorney who has experience serving as a guardian ad litem in child protective cases, appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives;

5. An advocate for children, appointed by the President of the Senate;

6. A current or former foster parent, appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives;