Maine Department of Health and Human Services

The late-Monday memo caused widespread confusion and concern because it was initially unclear how the freeze would impact a myriad of programs that rely on federal funding.

The state's MaineCare program is facing a nearly $120 million shortfall over the next six months, which the Mills administration says has forced it to make difficult decisions.

If confirmed by the Maine Senate, Sara Gagne-Holmes would take over the Maine Department of Health and Human Services at a time when the state's largest agency faces multiple challenges, including within child welfare programs.

The one-time, federally-funded benefit is intended to supplement the free meals kids can access over the summer in their communities.

Jeanne Lambrew was among the first hires by the administration of Gov. Janet Mills and has overseen Maine's largest state agency during a tenure of significant change and challenges.

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services says the agency has made substantial progress addressing staff recruitment and retention. But critics say the department, and lawmakers, need to do more.

The proposal is a response to ongoing frustration with the Office of Child and Family Services, which is currently a division of DHHS, the largest bureaucracy in state government.

State lawmakers heard testimony Thursday on a proposal to create a stand-alone child welfare agency amid concerns that the current system is not adequately protecting vulnerable children.

That is one of multiple proposals that the Legislature will likely consider this year following the latest investigation into the state's beleaguered child welfare system.

The report from a new group, Walk A Mile In Their Shoes, also accuses DHHS of putting "excessive focus" on family reunification and says foster families need more support.