The bill amends various sections of Alaska's laws regarding the placement of children in need of aid, adoption processes, and foster care licensing. Key provisions include the requirement for the Department of Family and Community Services to conduct a diligent search for suitable placements with adult family members or family friends when a child is removed from their home or transferred between placements. The bill specifies that foster parents have the right to request a hearing if they oppose a proposed transfer of a child, and they may obtain medical or psychological evaluations to support their case. Additionally, the bill mandates that the department provide training to foster parents on the reasonable and prudent parent standard, which allows them to make decisions regarding the child's participation in various activities.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new language that emphasizes the importance of considering the child's best interests when making placement decisions, particularly for children under six years of age. It also clarifies that poverty or inadequate housing cannot be used as prima facie evidence against placing a child with an adult family member or friend. The bill outlines the department's obligations to inform adult family members of their rights and the procedures for gaining custody of the child, as well as the support available for becoming licensed foster homes. The effective date for the implementation of this act is set for January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB0088A, AM SB 88, introduced 02/05/2025: 47.10.080, 47.10.145, 47.10.084, 47.10.088, 47.10.142, 47.14.100, 47.32.030, 47.32.032