SB 1487 Summary

• Requires the department to temporarily withdraw employees dealing with out-of-home placement providers during abuse investigations unless a child faces significant harm risk.

• Mandates provision of respite care to maintain child placement during abuse allegation investigations and video recording of all investigation meetings and interviews.

• Prohibits the department from requiring additional training or licensing actions or recording substantiated abuse allegations in the central registry if the allegation is not substantiated or criminal charges are dismissed.

• Requires a conflict resolution conference within three days when out-of-home placement providers are found in violation of child welfare laws, including assessment of support services, safety plans, and crisis plans with implementation within seven working days.

• Directs the department to establish training guidelines for foster parents by December 31, 2020 to address situations where children pose danger to siblings or animals in the household.