The bill HB2704 amends Title 8, Chapter 4, Article 1 of the Arizona Revised Statutes by adding Section 8-469, which establishes a Foster Youth Permanency Pilot Project Team within the Department of Child Safety (DCS). The purpose of the team is to develop a methodology to identify children at risk of exiting DCS custody without a permanency placement and to implement solutions to remove barriers to permanency for these children. The team will consist of members with expertise in social work, child welfare law, guardianship, and permanency planning, among others.

The team is tasked with reviewing case files, convening meetings that include the child and relevant parties, discussing the child's permanency plan, and identifying placement options for the child. The team will have access to necessary DCS documents and personnel and may enter into contracts with professionals such as psychiatrists, attorneys, and private investigators to fulfill its duties. By July 1, 2026, DCS must submit a report on the outcomes of the team with recommendations for improvement. The bill also includes provisions to protect the privacy and dignity of children involved in permanency action plans.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-469
House Engrossed Version: 8-469
Senate Engrossed Version: 8-469
Chaptered Version: 8-469