CT SB00980

Repeals and replaces Section 17a-114 of the general statutes, effective July 1, 2011, regarding placement of children in foster care.

Defines "special study foster parent" as a person age 21 or older who does not hold a Department of Children and Families foster care license.

Requires all foster care license applicants and household members age 16+ to undergo state and national criminal history checks and clearance from the state child abuse registry before licensure.

Permits temporary placement of children with unlicensed relatives, non-relatives with sibling connections, or special study foster parents for up to 90 days if a home visit is conducted and the caregiver attests to no convictions for crimes against children or controlled substance offenses.

Requires placement beyond 90 days to obtain full licensure, except for relatives certified prior to July 1, 2001 who may maintain their certification if they continue meeting regulatory requirements.