SB 977 Summary

• Specifies that a parent's enrollment in a certified substance abuse treatment facility allowing dependent children to reside is not, by itself, prima facie evidence of detriment or danger to the child.

• Requires courts to consider at hearings whether children can be returned to parents enrolled in certified substance abuse treatment facilities that accept families.

• Mandates that social studies, evaluations, and supplemental reports include discussion of whether a child may be returned to a parent enrolled in a certified substance abuse treatment facility.

• Authorizes Aid to Families with Dependent Children-Foster Care (AFDC-FC) program services to include treatment at residential substance abuse treatment facilities that accept families.

• Provides for state reimbursement of costs mandated by the bill if the Commission on State Mandates determines they exist.