SB 353 - Foster Parent Bill of Rights

• Establishes a foster parent bill of rights effective October 1, 2010, requiring the Department of Children and Families to treat licensed foster parents with consideration and respect.

• Mandates department notification of meetings concerning foster children to allow foster parents to participate in case-planning and decision-making.

• Requires the department to provide foster parents with timely information about the child's medical history, behavior, education, and life experiences, consistent with state and federal law.

• Obligates the department to provide support services, training, 24/7 contact information, and written copies of the bill of rights to foster parents.

• Grants licensed foster parents the right to petition Superior Court for appropriate relief, including injunctive relief, if the department violates these rights, without fear of retaliation.