The bill amends Section 16-1619B of the Idaho Code to enhance the regulations surrounding the placement of children in congregate care settings. It introduces a requirement for the Department to conduct a regular comprehensive review of placements for children in its legal custody. Specifically, the bill mandates that the Department file a notice of placement with the court within seven days and outlines strict criteria for placing children aged twelve and under in such settings. The bill also stipulates that children who do not meet certain eligibility requirements cannot remain in these placements for more than two weeks without documented emergency circumstances. Additionally, the bill establishes a detailed schedule for the comprehensive reviews, requiring that children placed in unlicensed facilities be reviewed every fourteen days, while those in licensed facilities must be reviewed every ninety days. Each review will assess the child's safety, treatment needs, progress on their treatment plan, and the appropriateness of their current placement. If a review indicates that a placement is not suitable, the Department is required to take action to end that placement within fourteen days. The provisions for these reviews do not apply to children placed in foster homes, the homes of parents or guardians, or correctional facilities. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, due to an emergency declaration.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 16-1619B