SB 727 Summary

• Expands collaborative decision-making requirements for the Department of Human Services (DHS) when addressing child safety needs and placement changes, requiring inclusion of parents and advocates when feasible

• Modifies sibling placement guidelines in foster care to prioritize keeping siblings together while allowing separation only when court and DHS find it necessary for safety or well-being, with specific documented criteria

• Establishes new procedures for adoption-eligible children including DHS notification to licensed child-placing agencies and reimbursement authorization for recruitment, training, and home study expenses

• Reduces age requirement for annual credit report provision from 16 to 14 years old for youth in DHS custody to help monitor identity theft

• Eliminates foster parent liability for property damage or child injuries resulting from inherent risks of age-appropriate activities when acting in good faith under reasonable and prudent parent standard