HB 7042 Summary

• Repeals and replaces Section 17a-12 of the general statutes effective October 1, 2015 regarding the Commissioner of Children and Families' authority to place and transfer children and youth.

• Prohibits placement of children or youth voluntarily admitted to the department at the Connecticut Juvenile Training School.

• Eliminates the Commissioner's previous authority to unilaterally transfer persons age 14 or older to correctional institutions; requires Superior Court hearing with judicial determination that transfer is in the child's best interests.

• Requires court-ordered transfer (with legal representation and judicial finding of best interests) for any transfer to another state department or agency, replacing previous administrative discretion.

• Maintains the Commissioner's emergency authority to transfer children to mental health facilities for up to 15 days when certified necessary by a licensed psychiatrist.