AZ HB2486

Allows petitions to restore a parent-child relationship that was previously terminated if the child is in department care, has not achieved permanency, and at least two years have passed since termination (or good cause is shown for earlier filing).

Prohibits restoration petitions if the termination was based on serious physical injury, sexual abuse, conduct resulting in near death or death of a minor, or dangerous crimes against children.

Requires petitions to include the child's position on restoration, parental consent, explanation of why permanent placement is unlikely without restoration, and documentation of parental remediation.

Mandates the department conduct an assessment of whether restoration serves the child's best interests and make diligent efforts to locate permanent placements; if restoration is found to be in the child's best interests by clear and convincing evidence, the court shall order a trial in-home placement for three to six months.

Allows the court to grant the petition for restoration if it finds by clear and convincing evidence that parents have demonstrated necessary remediation and that restoration is in the child's best interests; permits immediate termination of trial placement if abuse, neglect, or threats to child safety are substantiated.