Comment on Proposal seeks to crack down on child welfare endangerment

If you are concerned about a child being neglected or abused, call Maine’s 24-hour hotline at 800-452-1999 or 711 to speak with a child protective specialist. Calls may be made anonymously. For more information, visit maine.gov/dhhs/ocfs/cw/reporting_abuse. A proposal that would make it a felony to endanger the welfare of a child who dies or is seriously injured has the backing of Maine prosecutors and sheriffs. Currently, endangering the welfare of a child is a Class D misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in prison and a fine of up to $2,000. If passed, the legislative proposal would make it a Class B crime if a child died due to a reckless disregard for his or her safety, and a Class C crime if a child were seriously injured for the same reason. Class B crimes are punishable by up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $20,000.