MS SB2079

Reduces the required supervision period under Department of Human Services before durable legal custody can be granted from one (1) year to six (6) months.

Establishes "durable legal relative guardianship" as a new disposition option for relatives licensed as foster parents, requiring six (6) months of physical custody and DHS supervision before being granted.

Requires youth court to find that reunification and adoption are inappropriate and consult with children age 12 or older before granting durable legal relative guardianship.

Mandates annual review and recertification of durable legal relative guardianship by Department of Human Services to determine continued suitability; allows petition to modify if material change in circumstances occurs.

Adds definitions for "durable legal relative guardianship," "relative," and "fictive kin" to Section 43-21-105; effective July 1, 2017.