MS SB2739

Reduces the required time a child must be under Department of Human Services (DHS) supervision before durable legal custody can be granted from one year to six months

Adds new definition of "durable legal relative guardianship" as custody granted to a relative who is licensed as a foster or resource parent

Defines "relative" to include persons related by affinity or consanguinity, as well as "fictive kin" (non-relatives with significant familial-like relationships with the child)

Applies to neglect and abuse cases where the court determines that temporary relative placement, adoption, or foster care is inappropriate or not in the child's best interest

Effective date of July 1, 2016