MD HB1205

Local departments of social services must provide prospective foster parents with information on a child's medical, educational, and behavioral history that directly relates to the child's care, except for privileged or confidential information.

Local departments may place up to four children in a single out-of-home placement.

Siblings in out-of-home placement must be placed together if it is in their best interests and does not conflict with health or safety regulations.

Treatment foster care homes may accept more than two children requiring treatment when placing siblings together, provided the department makes written findings that it serves the siblings' best interests and will not harm other children at the home.

Effective date: October 1, 2025.