MS HB1351

Amends Section 43-15-13 of Mississippi Code to require Department of Child Protection Services to obtain youth court approval through written or verbal order before changing a child's placement in foster or relative care when placement was ordered by the court.

Specifies that placement changes are prohibited unless the department documents the current placement is unsafe or unsuitable and the court agrees, or unless moving to an adoptive or permanent placement approved by the court beforehand.

Requires foster parents, grandparents, or relatives to receive at least 72 hours notice before a placement change (except in emergency circumstances) and gives them opportunity to contest the documented reasons for removal.

Grants former foster parents or relatives right of first refusal if a child returns to foster or relative care to minimize additional trauma to the child.

Effective July 1, 2024.