Governor LePage has released five bills to reform the child welfare system, following the deaths of two children last winter.
The bills would criminalize failure to report suspected abuse or neglect, drop a requirement that puts priority on family reunification, and require the state to retain all records for child abuse cases, even when allegations are unsubstantiated.
According to a press release from the Governor's office, another bill would create additional child protective services positions, and increase compensation and training.
A public hearing on the bills is scheduled for Monday.