HF1340 Summary

• Modifies requirements for placing children in qualified residential treatment programs (QRTPs) by requiring juvenile treatment screening teams to conduct assessments and multi-disciplinary evaluations before placement, with emphasis on least restrictive settings and family engagement.

• Establishes new certification requirements for residential facilities serving children, including trauma-informed care standards, staff qualifications (registered nurses and licensed clinical staff available 24/7 for QRTPs), and accreditation by recognized organizations (CARF, Joint Commission, or COA).

• Expands definitions and protections for sexually exploited youth and victims of commercial sexual exploitation, requiring specialized training for child protection workers on sex trafficking and establishing residential settings to serve these vulnerable populations.

• Modifies voluntary foster care for treatment provisions (Chapter 260D) to align with Family First Prevention Services Act requirements, including court review processes, permanency planning timelines, and extended support services for youth aging out of foster care (up to age 23).

• Requires comprehensive out-of-home placement plans that include family and permanency team participation, cultural competency considerations, Indian Child Welfare Act compliance, and detailed documentation of placement rationale and service coordination with effective dates primarily set for September 30, 2021.