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 the "Family Protection and Transparency Act," which outlines the rights of parents and guardians during emergency removal investigations by the DCF. This includes providing a written summary of allegations, explaining the investigation process, and ensuring that interviews are recorded with consent. The act emphasizes the rights of parents to legal representation and to understand the investigation process, while also mandating training for DCF caseworkers on these new requirements. Non-compliance with the act could result in penalties, including the invalidation of evidence gathered in violation of the established rights.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 119-23