CA AB381

Requires county social workers and courts to consider placement of dependent children with relatives on a case-by-case basis using specified factors, including the child's best interests, sibling placement, relative's moral character, and ability to provide a safe environment.

Expands consideration for relative placement to apply after the initial disposition hearing regardless of whether a new placement is needed, and requires courts to consider additional factors including length of current placement, relationship with current caregiver, child's progress toward permanency, and child's placement preference.

Mandates the Judicial Council adopt a rule of court by January 1, 2017 to implement the provisions regarding relative placement consideration after the disposition hearing.

Creates a state-mandated local program by increasing duties of county social workers; provides that costs are only reimbursed to the extent the state provides annual funding under the 2011 Realignment Legislation.

Requires courts to state on the record the reasons placement with a relative was denied if a relative considered for placement is not selected.