AN ACT relating to child welfare.
What changed between versions
Background investigation requirements for applicants and adult household members were clarified to include fingerprint checks by state and federal agencies.
The bill explicitly prohibits denying placements based solely on a prospective caregiver's disability without considering available supportive services.
New mandates require fictive kin caregivers of children under five to complete specific training on preventing pediatric abusive head trauma within five days of placement.
Annual reevaluation procedures for certified homes now explicitly require background checks for all adult household members and registration in the RAP Back system.
Placement procedures were updated to prioritize the best alternative in the child's home county to maintain educational stability and ensure placements are the least restrictive setting.