This bill amends existing laws regarding out-of-state placements for children, emphasizing the need for such placements to be licensed according to the laws of the state in which they operate and certified by the Department of Health and Human Services. The bill replaces the term "contracted" with "certified" in the context of placements, ensuring that out-of-state facilities meet specific legal standards. Additionally, it establishes a presumption that in-state placements are preferable, allowing out-of-state placements only when no suitable in-state options are available and when the out-of-state facility offers specialized services that cannot be provided in New Hampshire.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that any out-of-state placements require increased judicial oversight and written approval from the director of the Division for Children, Youth, and Families, or their designee, particularly for placements outside of New England. It also includes provisions for the Department to develop standard operating procedures for monthly visits with children in these placements, ensuring ongoing oversight and care. The effective date for these changes is set for January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 169-C:19-b, 169-C:19-e, 169-F:5, 169-F:7
As Amended by the Senate: 169-C:19-b, 169-F:5, 169-F:7