MS HB1376

Creates Section 43-15-12 in Mississippi Code to establish Qualified Residential Treatment Programs (QRTPs) as alternative placements for children in Department of Child Protection Services custody.

Defines QRTP requirements including trauma-informed treatment model, licensed clinical and nursing staff available 24/7, family involvement in treatment, and accreditation by CARF, JCAHO, COA, or equivalent organization.

Requires qualified assessors (independent licensed clinicians unaffiliated with the department) to assess within 30 days whether a child's needs can be met in family or foster care, and if not, document why QRTP placement provides the most appropriate least-restrictive care.

Mandates courts establish in writing within 60 days whether QRTP placement is appropriate and meets permanency plan goals, and at subsequent review hearings determine if the placement remains necessary and consistent with reunification efforts.

Effective July 1, 2024.