This bill proposes to amend current statutes by adding a new section, 8-469.03, to the Arizona Revised Statutes, specifically focusing on the Department of Child Safety. The bill mandates that the department annually seek to establish a memorandum of understanding with each Indian tribe in Arizona that currently lacks such an agreement. The memorandum will require the department to share best practices and operational standards related to various aspects of child welfare, including intake, investigations, placement of children, case management, and service coordination.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that each memorandum must identify a designated department tribal liaison for each tribe, who will facilitate communication and collaboration on child welfare issues. It also establishes a process for tribes to access regulatory actions, licensing actions, investigations, and enforcement measures concerning department-licensed group homes where tribal children are placed. This access includes corrective action plans, licensing sanctions, substantiated health and safety violations, and any other relevant regulatory actions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-469.03