DE SB165

Establishes sibling contact rights in child service plans, requiring DSCYF to consult children about their wishes regarding sibling contact and provide information on sibling visits unless not in the best interest of either child.

Requires DSCYF to arrange sibling visits within a reasonable timeframe when requested by a child and ensure regular visits occur with sufficient frequency and duration to maintain continuity in the sibling relationship.

Restricts use of sibling visit denial only to circumstances where visits are not in a child's best interest, would violate a protection order, or could harm a pending criminal prosecution; prohibits using visit denial as behavioral consequences.

Grants foster children specific rights including placement with or near siblings when possible, receipt of sibling contact information annually, private communication with siblings, and inclusion in permanency planning discussions affecting siblings.

Requires DSCYF to provide age-appropriate written documents explaining sibling rights to children within 30 days of placement, upon case plan modification, at each placement location, and at least annually.