The Fostering Connections Resource Center gratefully acknowledges the National Conference of State Legislatures for sharing its tracking information about pending and enacted legislation. Please visit NCSL for additional information.
Bill: HB 254; Status: Enacted
Summary: Determines that within 30 days after the removal of a child from the custody of the parent or parents of the child, the department shall exercise due diligence to identify a parent or relative of the child or other persons who have demonstrated an ongoing commitment to the child.
Sponsored by Representative Peake
Bill: HB 1085; Status: Enacted
Summary: Determines that siblings removed from their home shall be placed in the same foster care, kinship, guardianship, or adoptive placement, unless the Division of Family and Children Services documents that such a joint placement would be contrary to the safety or well-being of any of the siblings. Includes provisions ensuring the educational stability of the child while in foster care, including an assurance that the state agency has coordinated with appropriate local educational agencies to ensure that the child remains in the school in which the child is enrolled at the time of placement. Establishes that the Division of Family and Children Services of the Department of Human Services provide the child with assistance and support in developing a transition plan that is personalized at the direction of the child; includes specific options on housing, health insurance, education, local opportunities for mentors and continuing support services, and work force supports and employment services; and is as detailed as the child may elect in the 90 day period immediately prior to the date on which the child will attain 18 years of age.
Sponsored by Representative Dempsey
There is no pending Kinship/Guardianship legislation for Georgia.