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GA SB439
Bill
Status
Passed
7/21/2020
Primary Sponsor
Matt Brass
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AI Summary
- Courts must make written findings of fact at each hearing or review regarding whether foster parents, preadoptive parents, relatives, or other caregivers were notified of the hearing and whether they expressed interest in being heard
- If a caregiver is present at a hearing, the court must document the caregiver's views on the child's well-being, health, safety, needed changes, quality of services, and any supporting documentation from physicians, counselors, psychologists, or teachers
- DFCS must provide written notice of placement changes at least 5 days in advance, with email notification permitted if the recipient has agreed to it; the Council of Juvenile Court Judges must establish rules for electronic filing of objections to placement changes
- At termination of parental rights hearings, courts must include the same written findings regarding caregiver notice and participation, and termination orders must reference these findings
- After parental rights are terminated, courts must consider testimony and evidence from any foster parent, caregiver, or relative who has had physical custody of the child for at least 12 months (ending no more than 90 days before the petition filing) and who expresses a desire to adopt, including evidence of attachment and bonding
Legislative Description
Juvenile Code; enhanced notice to and improved participation of foster, preadoptive, and relative caregivers in certain hearings; provide
Last Action
Effective Date
1/1/2021
Full Bill Text
No bill text available