The bill aims to strengthen the preservation of family and sibling bonds for children in foster care by amending existing laws related to the placement and visitation of children. Key provisions include the requirement for the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to actively search for relatives or significant adults for potential placement of children in foster care, and to make reasonable efforts to place siblings and half-siblings together unless clear evidence suggests otherwise. The bill also mandates that the department facilitate frequent visitation and ongoing interaction between siblings who are not placed together, with the court having the authority to review and approve visitation arrangements.

Additionally, the bill introduces procedural safeguards for parents and guardians during DCF investigations, including the provision of written summaries of allegations, explanations of the investigation process, and the recording of interviews with consent. It establishes rights for parents, such as the right to legal representation and the right to remain silent, and requires mandatory training for caseworkers on these new requirements. Non-compliance by the department could result in evidence being deemed invalid in legal proceedings. Overall, the bill emphasizes the importance of family connections and transparency in the child welfare system.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 119-23