CT SB00981

Prohibits the Commissioner of Children and Families from placing children under age six, or sibling groups containing a child under age six, in child care facilities, effective July 1, 2012.

Allows exceptions only when a facility is designed for children and their parents, or when the commissioner determines the child's health needs can only be met in congregate care.

Requires the commissioner to certify to the court within 72 hours of placement that specific attempts were made to secure family-based alternatives or that the child's health needs necessitate facility placement.

Mandates an emergency placement review hearing at least 45 days after initial placement if a child remains in a facility for more than 30 days, to assess efforts to find family-based placement and determine whether continued congregate care is warranted.