ID H0233

Department cannot make a substantiated finding of abuse, neglect, or abandonment solely because a parent or guardian requests inpatient hospital treatment or out-of-home placement for a child with serious behavioral health conditions.

Protection applies when the child's mental health condition demonstrates likelihood of self-harm, substantial mental or physical deterioration, or harm to others, and risks cannot be eliminated before returning the child to family.

Department must establish an interagency agreement within 180 days with appropriate agencies to divert children at risk of removal from custody.

Interagency clinical team must review cases of children in hospitals or similar treatment facilities and connect families with appropriate services, treatment, and support to stabilize serious emotional disturbance and prevent removal.