Sec. 5. Duties. Resolved: That the commission shall study ways to properly protect children in the State from harm and to consider alleged abuses by the Department of Human Services. In conducting the study the commission may:

1. Hold informational sessions for discussions with knowledgeable persons;

2. Conduct, summarize and analyze the results of a literature search;

3. Conduct, tabulate and analyze the results of a survey of the public or affected persons and groups;

4. Procure and analyze relevant data;

5. Conduct legal research and prepare opinions on legal questions within the scope of the study; and

6. Determine and summarize the legislative actions or governmental programs undertaken in other jurisdictions related to issues within the scope of the study; and be it further

Sec. 6. Staff assistance. Resolved: That the Department of Human Services shall provide necessary staffing services to the commission; and be it further

Sec. 7. Compensation. Resolved: That the members of the commission who are Legislators are entitled to receive the legislative per diem, as defined in the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 3, section 2, and reimbursement for necessary expenses incurred for their attendance at authorized meetings of the commission. Other members of the commission who are not otherwise compensated by their employers or other entities that they represent are entitled to receive reimbursement of necessary expenses incurred for their attendance at authorized meetings; and be it further

Sec. 8. Report. Resolved: That the commission shall submit its report, together with any necessary implementing legislation, to the First Regular Session of the 121st Legislature no later than January 1, 2003. If the commission requires a limited extension of time to conclude its work, it may apply to the Legislative Council, which may grant the extension; and be it further

Sec. 9. Budget. Resolved: That the chairs of the commission with assistance from the commission staff shall administer the commission's budget. Within 10 days after its first meeting, the commission shall present a work plan and proposed budget to the Legislative Council for approval. The commission may not incur expenses that would result in the commission's exceeding its approved budget. Upon request from the commission, the Executive Director of the Legislative Council shall promptly provide the commission chairs and staff with a status report on the commission's budget, expenditures incurred and paid and available funds.

SUMMARY

This resolve establishes the Commission to Examine Methods to Ensure the Safety of Children and Families to study ways to properly protect children in the State from harm and to consider alleged abuses by the Department of Human Services.