The bill amends existing laws regarding the placement of foster children in psychiatric hospitals and the care of children in state custody placed in residential facilities outside of Alaska. It establishes that a court must review placements in secure residential psychiatric treatment centers at least every 90 days and allows for the continuation of such placements if a mental health professional testifies that the child's needs cannot be met in a less restrictive setting. New definitions are introduced, including "acute psychiatric hospital" and "contemporaneous two-way video conference," to clarify the types of facilities and communication methods involved in these processes. Additionally, the bill mandates that the department notify relevant parties within 24 hours of a child's placement in an acute psychiatric hospital and requires a court review of the placement within seven days.

Furthermore, the bill requires the division responsible for child custody to prepare an annual report on employee recruitment and retention, including metrics on social worker turnover and child placements. It also amends Rule 12.1(b) of the Alaska Child in Need of Aid Rules of Procedure to ensure that children placed in acute psychiatric hospitals are appointed an attorney, enhancing legal representation for vulnerable children in these situations. The bill aims to improve oversight and care for children in psychiatric settings while ensuring their legal rights are protected.

Statutes affected:
HB0036A, AM HB 36, introduced 01/10/2025: 47.10.087, 47.30.915, 47.10.080, 47.10.142, 47.14.112, 18.05.020