The bill amends sections 50-11-03.2 and 50-11-07 of the North Dakota Century Code, focusing on the regulations surrounding foster care homes for children and adults. It stipulates that public funds for foster care can only be utilized in facilities that are licensed, certified, or approved by the department, and prohibits any governmental entity from arranging care in unlicensed facilities. Additionally, the bill allows for the use of nonfederal funds for maintenance payments to unlicensed relatives or kinship relatives for up to six months, as well as to guardians with department-approved subsidies.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the conditions under which the department may deny or revoke a facility's license or certification. It includes provisions for denying licenses if prerequisites are not met, if false information is provided, or if there are violations of the chapter's rules. Notably, it specifies that if a child has been removed from a household due to court findings contrary to their welfare within the last five years, this can also lead to denial or revocation of a license or certification. These amendments aim to enhance the safety and accountability of foster care services in North Dakota.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 50-11-03.2, 50-11-07
Enrollment: 50-11-03.2, 50-11-07
PREFILED: 50-11-03.2, 50-11-07