CA AB2830

State Department of Social Services must adopt a simplified approval process for relative caregivers by January 1, 2027, consistent with federal Title IV-E eligibility requirements under 45 CFR 1355.20.

Implementation of the simplified approval process is conditional upon federal financial participation and approval of necessary state plan amendments.

Department may conduct government-to-government consultation with tribes and communicate with county agencies, foster family agencies, and community partners to develop the simplified process with goals of safety, permanency, and well-being for children.

Department must report to the Legislature by September 30, 2026, on additional statutory changes needed to fully implement separate resource family approval standards for relative caregivers.

Department must track and report to the Legislature within 18 months of implementation on approval timelines, changes in relative placements since January 1, 2023, and any barriers to implementation; reporting provisions expire June 30, 2030, and section repeals January 1, 2031.