The proposed bill, HB2704, mandates the establishment of a Foster Youth Permanency Pilot Project Team by the Department of Child Safety (DCS). This team is tasked with developing methodologies to identify children at risk of exiting DCS custody without a permanency placement and implementing solutions to address barriers to permanency for those likely to be in DCS custody when they turn 18 or begin participating in the Extended Foster Care Program. The team will consist of members with expertise in social work, child welfare law, and permanency planning, among others.

Key changes from current law include the removal of the requirement for DCS staff and volunteers to serve on the team, allowing for a more diverse membership based on expertise. The team will also focus on reviewing and discussing children's permanency plans rather than creating individualized written plans. Additionally, the bill requires DCS to submit a report by July 1, 2026, detailing the outcomes of the team and recommendations for improvements, which is a new accountability measure not present in current law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-469
House Engrossed Version: 8-469
Senate Engrossed Version: 8-469
Chaptered Version: 8-469