- Introduced -

SB 771 - This act relates to the permanency of children in alternative care. It requires that foster parents and pre-adoptive parents be given notice and an opportunity to be heard in any permanency or review hearing with respect to the child. Current law does not make such a provision. The act also makes it easier for the Division of Family Services to take steps necessary to find permanent placement for a child. Children of abusive, dangerous, and negligent parents may be subject to a permanency hearing within 30 days of a court's determination. The Division of Family Services shall complete whatever steps are necessary to finalize the permanent placement of the child within that 30 day period.

The act also provides some exceptions to when petitions to terminate parental rights must be filed. Children are not to be considered neglected if they are in the care of a relative. Furthermore, if such a petition is deemed to not be in the best interests of the child, such a petition is not required.

JOHN MESSMER