HB 1201 Summary

• Creates expedited procedures for court involvement when both parents of a child die or the last living parent dies without a legal custodian already appointed, allowing the Department of Children and Families or other persons to file petitions for adjudication and permanent commitment with clear and convincing evidence standards.

• Authorizes removal of children from court-ordered placements in emergency situations when probable cause exists, requiring the Department to file a motion to modify placement within 1 business day and the court to hold a hearing within 24 hours.

• Restricts access to records in child death cases to after receipt of the medical examiner's final report, with exceptions for active criminal investigations that law enforcement indicates could be compromised by disclosure.

• Establishes court review procedures for Department denials of adoption applications, allowing denied applicants to petition for court approval within 30 business days and expanding standing for certain individuals.

• Restricts photo listing access in the statewide adoption exchange to persons who have completed or are in process of completing an adoption home study, and authorizes Department to exempt certain temporary care facilities from licensure requirements.