The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend current statutes regarding the periodic review hearings for dependent children by requiring the Department of Child Safety (DCS) to file a fact-based written report with the court and provide copies to all parties at least 15 days prior to the hearing. This report must include specific information such as the child's placement, services provided to the child and family, progress on case plan goals, and the child's dependency status. Additionally, if the report contains any advocacy or recommendations, the court is mandated to view it favorably towards the parties that did not file the report.
The bill also updates the current law by changing the compliance criteria for parents or guardians. It replaces the existing reference to compliance with a court order under a specific subsection with a new designation, ensuring that the legal language is current and accurate. Overall, the bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the review process for dependent children while making necessary technical adjustments to the existing statutes.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 8-847