| 1 | | - | Assembly Bill No. 819 CHAPTER 777An act to amend Sections 1506.1, 1507.25, 1517, 1517.5, 1522, 1522.1, 1527, 1527.1, 1527.2, 1527.4, 1527.5, 1558, 1562.02, 1568.092, 1569.58, and 1596.8897 of the Health and Safety Code, to amend Section 11172 of the Penal Code, and to amend Sections 366.3, 11405, 11461, 11462, 11463, 16519.5, 16519.58, 18360.05, and 18360.15 of, and to add Sections 727.05, 16501.95, and 18360.20 to, the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to foster care. [ Approved by Governor October 12, 2019. Filed with Secretary of State October 12, 2019. ] LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 819, Mark Stone. Foster care.(1) Existing law, commonly known as Continuum of Care Reform (CCR), states the intent of the Legislature to improve Californias child welfare system and its outcomes by increasing the use of home-based family care and creating faster paths to permanency resulting in shorter durations of involvement in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems, among other things.Existing law, as part of the CCR, requires the State Department of Social Services to implement a resource family approval process, and directs counties and foster family agencies, commencing January 1, 2017, to approve resource families in lieu of licensing and certifying foster homes. Existing law defines a resource family as an individual or family that has successfully met both home environment assessment standards and permanency assessment criteria. Existing law requires the department to review resource family approval standards, including case file documentation. Existing law requires foster family agencies to prepare a written report on an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes, and requires counties and foster family agencies, when a resource family seeks approval by a subsequent foster family agency or transfer of their approval to a county, to request or provide the above-specified written report, including any updates to the report.This bill would require counties and foster family agencies, when a resource family seeks approval by a subsequent foster family agency or transfer of their approval to a county, to request or provide documents in the resource family file maintained by a county or the resource family case record maintained by a foster family agency, including any updates to the file or record. By imposing additional duties on counties, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(2) Existing law requires the department to license and regulate various facilities, including community care facilities, residential care facilities for persons with chronic, life-threatening illness, child daycare centers, family childcare homes, and licensed foster family homes or certified family homes, and generally makes violations of these requirements a crime. Existing law requires the department to secure from an appropriate law enforcement agency a criminal record to determine whether an applicant or specified persons have been convicted of a crime, and prohibits the department from approving applicants who have committed specified crimes. Existing law authorizes the department to prohibit a person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of one of the above-specified facilities if they, among other things, have engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either the people of the state or an individual in or receiving services from the facility or have engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of the facility. Existing law generally prohibits an excluded person from working in a facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life if the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order.This bill would state that an excluded person is prohibited from being a resource family. The bill would impose specified criminal background check requirements on individuals who work in a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child. By expanding the requirements on those facilities, the violation of which is a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(3) Existing law authorizes specified caregivers who are not licensed health care professionals to administer subcutaneous injections of medications to a foster child in placement, as prescribed by the childs physician.This bill would additionally authorize a staff member of a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the group home to administer those injections to a foster child in placement.(4) Existing law requires the department to establish rates for short-term residential therapeutic programs and foster family agencies that include an interim rate that is effective January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2019, inclusive, and that becomes inoperative on January 1, 2020.This bill would instead make that interim rate effective January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2020, inclusive, and would make it inoperative on January 1, 2021.(5) Existing law authorizes the department to license, no later than January 1, 2019, and contingent upon an appropriation in the annual Budget Act for these purposes, a short-term residential therapeutic program operating as a childrens crisis residential program, as defined, and requires the department to regulate those programs.This bill would specify distinct program approval requirements for short-term residential treatment programs that serve only children who are experiencing mental health crises and programs that also serve children who are not experiencing mental health crises.(6) Existing law establishes the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund within the State Department of Social Services to pay, on behalf of foster family homes, small family homes, and resource families, claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem resulting from occurrences peculiar to the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services.This bill would authorize the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund to make, on or after January 1, 2020, payments on behalf of tribally approved homes.(7) Existing law authorizes a court to make any reasonable orders for the care, supervision, custody, conduct, maintenance, and support of a minor or nonminor, if they are adjudged a ward of the court. Existing law, in conformity with federal law, requires a probation agency to determine the appropriate placement for the ward once the court issues a placement order.This bill would authorize a probation agency to make an emergency placement of a minor with a relative or nonrelative extended family member if the probation agency takes specified action, including conducting an in-home inspection and requiring the relative or nonrelative extended family member to submit an application for approval as a resource family. (8) Existing law, as part of the CCR, updated payment rate structures for foster care programs, and requires the home-based family care rate structure to be implemented as of January 1, 2017. Existing law requires that cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court receive the basic foster care maintenance rate effective and available as of December 31, 2016, instead of the home-based family care rate.This bill would instead require cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court to receive the basic level rate of the home-based family care rate structure.(9) Existing law requires the state, through the department and county welfare departments, to establish and support a public system of statewide child welfare services, and requires the department to implement a single statewide Child Welfare Services Case Management System (CWS/CMS) to administer and evaluate the states child welfare services and foster care programs. Existing federal regulations require a child welfare contributing agency, as defined, to provide specified data from the Comprehensive Child Welfare Information Systems and support bidirectional data exchanges to exchange relevant data amongst various systems.This bill would require the department to determine which entities are a child welfare contributing agency for purposes of the federal regulations, and to develop and issue written directives for child welfare contributing agencies on specified matters, including how to submit data to applicable child welfare case management systems. The bill would require each child welfare contributing agency to provide child welfare services data to the statewide child welfare case management system. To the extent that the reporting requirements increase the workload of county agencies, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(10) Existing law requires the department to develop an intensive services foster care program to serve children with specific needs, including intensive treatment and behavioral needs and specialized health care needs, whose needs for safety, permanency, and well-being require specially trained resource parents and intensive professional and paraprofessional services and supports in order to remain in a home-based setting or to avoid or exit congregate care in a short-term residential therapeutic program, group home, or out-of-state residential center. Existing law prohibits more than 2 foster children from being placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home if one or both of the children has intensive needs. Existing law, notwithstanding that provision, authorizes up to 5 foster children to be placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home in order to accommodate sibling group placement. Existing law requires, prior to the placement of a 2nd or subsequent child in an intensive services foster care resource family home, a foster family agency to provide the county placing agency with a written assessment of risks and compatibility.The bill would instead authorize a county placing agency to approve placements for no more than 3 foster children, 2 of whom may be eligible children, in an intensive services foster care resource family home, and would authorize the county to approve additional placements in compelling circumstances, such as to accommodate a preexisting relationship, if specified requirements are met, including that the needs and services plan of each child placed in the home would ensure timely support and services for that child. The bill would condition these additional placements on the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department. The bill would require the department to adopt regulations to implement the intensive services foster care program, and would authorize the department, until regulations are adopted, to administer the program through the issuance of written directives. The bill would require a foster family agency that intends to operate an intensive services foster care program to provide to the department a description of the program model and how it intends to comply with specified statutory requirements.This bill would also require the department, in consultation with counties and other interested stakeholders, to consider options to expand the number of available resource families who are willing to provide intensive services foster care.(11) If a relative of a dependent child is appointed the legal guardian of the child and the child has been placed with the relative for at least 6 months, existing law requires the court to terminate its dependency jurisdiction and to retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the guardianship, unless the relative guardian objects or upon a finding of exceptional circumstances.This bill would also apply this provision to a nonrelative extended family member. The bill would instead condition the requirement for the court to terminate dependency jurisdiction on the guardians home maintaining resource family approval for at least 6 months.(12) Existing law, the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act, requires a mandated reporter, as defined, to report whenever they, in their professional capacity or within the scope of their employment, have knowledge of or observed a child whom the mandated reporter knows or reasonably suspects has been the victim of child abuse or neglect. Existing law grants civil and criminal immunity to specified individuals, including a mandated reporter, for any report that is required or authorized by the act.This bill would extend civil and criminal immunity to any person who, in good faith, provides information or assistance, in connection with a report, investigation, or legal intervention pursuant to a good faith report of child abuse or neglect under the act.(13) Existing law continuously appropriates funds from the General Fund to defray a portion of the states share of costs under the CalWORKs program, the AFDC-FC program, and for the placement of hard-to-place adoptive children.This bill would provide that the continuous appropriation would not be made for purposes of implementing the bill.(14) This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code proposed by AB 686 to be operative only if this bill and AB 686 are enacted and this bill is enacted last.This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by AB 686 and AB 865 to be operative only if this bill and AB 686, this bill and AB 865, or all 3 bills are enacted and this bill is enacted last.(15) The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 1506.1 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1506.1. (a) A foster family agency shall prepare and maintain a current, written plan of operation as required by the department.(b) (1) A foster family agency shall have national accreditation from an entity identified by the department pursuant to the process described in paragraph (8) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed before January 1, 2017:(A) The foster family agency shall have until December 31, 2018, to obtain accreditation.(B) The foster family agency shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation to the department in a time and manner as determined by the department.(C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status as of January 1, 2018, and July 1, 2018, in a time and manner as determined by the department.(3) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed on or after January 1, 2017:(A) The foster family agency shall have up to 24 months from the date of licensure to obtain accreditation.(B) The foster family agency applicant shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation with its application for licensure.(C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status at 12 months and at 18 months after the date of licensure.(4) This subdivision does not preclude the department from requesting additional information from the foster family agency regarding its accreditation status.(5) The department may revoke a foster family agencys license pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) for failure to obtain accreditation within the timeframes specified in this subdivision.(6) The department may extend the date by which to comply with paragraph (2), as applicable, for up to one year upon the request of a foster family agency that has been vendored as a service provider by a regional center for persons with developmental disabilities. In determining whether to extend the date, the department shall consult with any county placement agency that places children with the foster family agency, the vendorizing regional center, and the State Department of Developmental Services.(c) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agencys plan of operation shall include a program statement. The program statement shall contain a description of all of the following:(1) The core services and supports, as set forth in paragraph (5) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and as prescribed by the department, to be offered to children and their families, as appropriate or as necessary.(2) The treatment practices that will be used in serving children and families.(3) The procedures for the development, implementation, and periodic updating of the needs and services plan for children placed with the foster family agency or served by the foster family agency, consistent with the case plans as developed by the county placing agency, that support the reasonable and prudent parent standard, as defined in Section 362.05 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and procedures for collaborating with the child and family team, as described in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which includes, but is not limited to, a description of the services to be provided to meet the treatment needs of children assessed.(4) (A) How the foster family agency will comply with the resource family approval standards and requirements, as set forth in Section 1517.(B) A foster family agency that chooses not to approve resource families pursuant to Section 1517 shall describe in the program statement the transition plan for its certified family homes to obtain resource family approval prior to December 31, 2019.(5) The population or populations to be served.(6) The ability to support the differing needs of children and their families.(7) The plan for the supervision, evaluation, and training of staff. The training plan shall be appropriate to meet the needs of children, and it shall be consistent with the training provided to resource families as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(8) The ability to provide or arrange for treatment services to meet the individual needs of children placed in certified family homes or with resource families, as specified in Section 11402 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(9) The plan for the training, supervision, and support of resource families to meet the appropriate needs of children, consistent with the training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. To the extent possible, the foster family agency training plan for resource families shall be consistent with the training requirements set forth by the county child welfare placing agency.(10) The agency or agencies that the foster family agency has partnered with, either formally or informally, to provide additional supports and services to families and children during care and postpermanency.(11) The plan for participation in child and family teams and supporting the participation of the agencys resource families in those teams, as appropriate.(12) If the foster family agency plans to operate as an intensive services foster care program, a description of the program model and how the foster family agency will comply with the requirements set forth in Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(13) Any other information that may be prescribed by the department for the proper administration of this section.(d) In addition to the rules and regulations adopted pursuant to this chapter, a county licensed to operate a foster family agency shall describe, in the plan of operation, its conflict-of-interest mitigation plan, on and after January 1, 2017, as set forth in subdivision (g) of Section 11462.02 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(e) (1) (A) (i) A foster family agency applicant shall submit an application to the department that includes a letter of recommendation in support of its program from a county placing agency.(ii) The letter of recommendation shall include a statement that the county placing agency reviewed the applicants program statement.(iii) If the letter of recommendation is not from the county in which the facility is located, the foster family agency applicant shall include with its application a statement that it provided the county in which the facility is located an opportunity for that county to review the program statement and notified that county that the facility has received a letter of recommendation from another county.(B) If the application does not contain a letter of recommendation as described in subparagraph (A), then the department shall cease review of the application. This paragraph does not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of Section 1526 or any other law.(C) A new letter of recommendation is not required when a foster family agency moves locations.(2) A foster family agency shall submit a copy of its program statement to all county placing agencies with which placements are coordinated or for which services are provided, including the county in which the facility is located, for optional review when the foster family agency updates its program statement.(f) The department shall have the authority to inspect a foster family agency pursuant to the system of governmental monitoring and oversight developed by the department on and after January 1, 2017, pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 2. Section 1507.25 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1507.25. (a) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer emergency medical assistance and injections for severe diabetic hypoglycemia and anaphylactic shock to a foster child in placement.(2) The following individuals shall be authorized to administer emergency medical assistance and injections in accordance with this subdivision:(A) A relative caregiver.(B) A nonrelative extended family member.(C) A foster family home parent.(D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(E) A small family home parent.(F) A certified parent of a foster family agency.(G) A designated substitute caregiver of a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family.(H) A staff member of a small family home or a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the small family home or group home.(I) A staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(J) A staff member of a transitional shelter care facility or a temporary shelter care facility who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate.(b) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer subcutaneous injections of other medications, including insulin, as prescribed by the childs physician, to a foster child in placement.(2) The following individuals shall be authorized to give prescribed injections, including insulin, in accordance with this subdivision:(A) A relative caregiver.(B) A nonrelative extended family member.(C) A foster family home parent.(D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(E) A small family home parent.(F) A certified parent of a foster family agency.(G) In the absence of a foster parent, a designated substitute caregiver in a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family.(H) A staff member of a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the group home.(I) A direct care staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate.(c) For purposes of this section, administration of an insulin injection shall include all necessary supportive activities related to the preparation and administration of the injection, including glucose testing and monitoring.(d) Notwithstanding Part 5.5 (commencing with Section 17700) of Division 9 of, and particularly subdivision (g) of Section 17710 of, the Welfare and Institutions Code, a childs need to receive injections pursuant to this section shall not be the sole basis for determining that the child has a medical condition requiring specialized in-home health care.(e) This section does not supersede the requirements of Section 369.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, with respect to the administration of psychotropic medication to a dependent child of the court.SEC. 3. Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years.(B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code.(C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law.(D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed.(b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with the provisions of this section.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department.(B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(D) Taking the following actions, as applicable:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month.(F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78.(ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(H) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement.(c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved.(2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department.(3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency.(4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate.(5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety.(6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action.(d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided.(2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family.(A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing.(B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551.(ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing.(C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits.(D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550.(e) Neither this section nor Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter.(3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes:(A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph:(A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section.(h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 3.5. Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the foster family agency shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may provide guidance to foster family agencies regarding consistent implementation of this clause through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations, until regulations are adopted.(5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years.(B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code.(C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law.(D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed.(b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with this section.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department.(B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(D) Taking the following actions, as applicable:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month.(F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78.(ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(H) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement.(c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved.(2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department.(3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency.(4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate.(5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety.(6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action.(d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided.(2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family.(A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing.(B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551.(ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing.(C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits.(D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550.(e) This section and Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code do not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter.(3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes:(A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph:(A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section.(h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 4. Section 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1517.5. (a) A resource family currently approved by a foster family agency pursuant to this section or Section 1517 may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete the following activities:(A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency.(B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code.(C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2.(C) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family from the current foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the current foster family agency.(ii) The current foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family to the subsequent foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(b) A resource family currently approved by a county pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency.(B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code.(C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2.(C) Complete an approval update for the resource family, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the county.(ii) The county shall forward a copy of the written report and any updates to the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(c) Resource family approval by a current foster family agency or a county shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family by a subsequent foster family agency in accordance with this section.(d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Current foster family agency means a foster family agency by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to this section or Section 1517.(2) Subsequent foster family agency means a foster family agency to which a resource family has submitted an application for resource family approval pursuant to this section.(3) County means a county child welfare or probation department by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 5. Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1522. The Legislature recognizes the need to generate timely and accurate positive fingerprint identification of applicants as a condition of issuing licenses, permits, or certificates of approval for persons to operate or provide direct care services in a community care facility, foster family home, or a certified family home or resource family of a licensed foster family agency. Therefore, the Legislature supports the use of the fingerprint live-scan technology, as identified in the long-range plan of the Department of Justice for fully automating the processing of fingerprints and other data by the year 1999, otherwise known as the California Crime Information Intelligence System (CAL-CII), to be used for applicant fingerprints. It is the intent of the Legislature in enacting this section to require the fingerprints of those individuals whose contact with community care clients may pose a risk to the clients health and safety. An individual shall be required to obtain either a criminal record clearance or a criminal record exemption from the State Department of Social Services before the individuals initial presence in a community care facility or certified family home.(a) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or special permit to a person to operate or manage a community care facility, the State Department of Social Services shall secure from an appropriate law enforcement agency a criminal record to determine whether the applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5 of the Penal Code, subdivision (b) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons, and subsequent arrest information pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(3) The following shall apply to the criminal record information:(A) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial.(C) If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the applicant and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact.(D) If the State Department of Social Services finds, after licensure, that the licensee, or any other person specified in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license may be revoked, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(E) An applicant and any other person specified in subdivision (b) shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice for the purpose of searching the criminal records of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in addition to the criminal records search required by this subdivision. If an applicant and all other persons described in subdivision (b) meet all of the conditions for licensure, except receipt of the Federal Bureau of Investigations criminal offender record information search response for the applicant or any of the persons described in subdivision (b), the department may issue a license if the applicant and each person described in subdivision (b) has signed and submitted a statement that the person has never been convicted of a crime in the United States, other than a traffic infraction, as prescribed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 42001 of the Vehicle Code. If, after licensure, or the issuance of a certificate of approval of a certified family home by a foster family agency, the department determines that the licensee or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has a criminal record, the department may revoke the license, or require a foster family agency to revoke the certificate of approval, pursuant to Section 1550. The department may also suspend the license or require a foster family agency to suspend the certificate of approval pending an administrative hearing pursuant to Section 1550.5.(F) The State Department of Social Services shall develop procedures to provide the individuals state and federal criminal history information with the written notification of the individuals exemption denial or revocation based on the criminal record. Receipt of the criminal history information shall be optional on the part of the individual, as set forth in the agencys procedures. The procedure shall protect the confidentiality and privacy of the individuals record, and the criminal history information shall not be made available to the employer.(G) Notwithstanding any other law, the department is authorized to provide an individual with a copy of the individuals state or federal level criminal offender record information search response as provided to that department by the Department of Justice if the department has denied a criminal background clearance based on this information and the individual makes a written request to the department for a copy specifying an address to which it is to be sent. The state or federal level criminal offender record information search response shall not be modified or altered from its form or content as provided by the Department of Justice and shall be provided to the address specified by the individual in the individuals written request. The department shall retain a copy of the individuals written request and the response and date provided.(b) (1) In addition to the applicant, this section shall be applicable to criminal record clearances and exemptions for the following persons:(A) Adults responsible for administration or direct supervision of staff.(B) Any adult, other than a client, residing in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home.(C) Any person who provides client assistance in dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene. Any nurse assistant or home health aide meeting the requirements of Section 1338.5 or 1736.6, respectively, who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee, and who has been certified or recertified on or after July 1, 1998, shall be deemed to meet the criminal record clearance requirements of this section. A certified nurse assistant and certified home health aide who will be providing client assistance and who falls under this exemption shall provide one copy of their current certification, prior to providing care, to the community care facility. The facility shall maintain the copy of the certification on file as long as care is being provided by the certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide at the facility or in a certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency. This paragraph does not restrict the right of the department to exclude a certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide from a licensed community care facility or certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1558.(D) Any staff person, volunteer, or employee who has contact with the clients.(E) Any adult who works in a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child.(F) If the applicant is a firm, partnership, association, or corporation, the chief executive officer or other person serving in like capacity.(G) Additional officers of the governing body of the applicant, or other persons with a financial interest in the applicant, as determined necessary by the department by regulation. The criteria used in the development of these regulations shall be based on the persons capability to exercise substantial influence over the operation of the facility.(2) The following persons are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) A medical professional, as defined in department regulations, who holds a valid license or certification from the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity and who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee if all of the following apply:(i) The criminal record of the person has been cleared as a condition of licensure or certification by the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity.(ii) The person is providing time-limited specialized clinical care or services.(iii) The person is providing care or services within the persons scope of practice.(iv) The person is not a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility.(B) A third-party repair person or similar retained contractor if all of the following apply:(i) The person is hired for a defined, time-limited job.(ii) The person is not left alone with clients.(iii) When clients are present in the room in which the repair person or contractor is working, a staff person who has a criminal record clearance or exemption is also present.(C) Employees of a licensed home health agency and other members of licensed hospice interdisciplinary teams who have a contract with a client or resident of the facility, certified family home, or resource family home and are in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home at the request of that client or residents legal decisionmaker. The exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility.(D) Clergy and other spiritual caregivers who are performing services in common areas of the community care facility, certified family home, or resource family home or who are advising an individual client at the request of, or with the permission of, the client or legal decisionmaker, are exempt from fingerprint and criminal background check requirements imposed by community care licensing. This exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care licensee or employee of the facility.(E) Members of fraternal, service, or similar organizations who conduct group activities for clients if all of the following apply:(i) Members are not left alone with clients.(ii) Members do not transport clients off the facility, certified family home, or resource family home premises.(iii) The same organization does not conduct group activities for clients more often than defined by the departments regulations.(3) In addition to the exemptions in paragraph (2), the following persons in foster family homes, resource family homes, certified family homes, and small family homes are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) Adult friends and family of the foster parent, who come into the home to visit for a length of time no longer than defined by the department in regulations, provided that the adult friends and family of the foster parent are not left alone with the foster children. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 362.04 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, may allow adult friends and family to provide short-term care to the foster child and act as an appropriate occasional short-term babysitter for the child.(B) Parents of a foster childs friend when the foster child is visiting the friends home and the friend, foster parent, or both are also present. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, may allow the parent of the foster childs friend to act as an appropriate, occasional short-term babysitter for the child without the friend being present.(C) Individuals who are engaged by a foster parent to provide short-term care to the child for periods not to exceed 24 hours. Caregivers shall use a reasonable and prudent parent standard in selecting appropriate individuals to act as appropriate occasional short-term babysitters.(4) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult day care and adult day support centers are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) Unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and service plan, a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to the client.(B) A volunteer if all of the following apply:(i) The volunteer is supervised by the licensee or a facility employee with a criminal record clearance or exemption.(ii) The volunteer is never left alone with clients.(iii) The volunteer does not provide any client assistance with dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene other than washing of hands.(5) (A) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult residential and social rehabilitation facilities, unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and services plan, are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1): a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to that client.(B) This subdivision does not prevent a licensee from requiring a criminal record clearance of any individual exempt from the requirements of this section, provided that the individual has client contact.(6) Any person similar to those described in this subdivision, as defined by the department in regulations.(c) (1) Subsequent to initial licensure, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempted from fingerprinting shall obtain either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) from the State Department of Social Services prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the facility. A person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall be fingerprinted and shall sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions. The licensee shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). These fingerprint images and related information shall be sent by electronic transmission in a manner approved by the State Department of Social Services and the Department of Justice for the purpose of obtaining a permanent set of fingerprints, and shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the licensee. A licensees failure to prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in the citation of a deficiency and the immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images and related information shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed stamped postcard for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints.(2) Within 14 calendar days of the receipt of the fingerprint images, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services of the criminal record information, as provided in subdivision (a). If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the licensee and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact within 14 calendar days of receipt of the fingerprint images. Documentation of the individuals clearance or exemption from disqualification shall be maintained by the licensee and be available for inspection. If new fingerprint images are required for processing, the Department of Justice shall, within 14 calendar days from the date of receipt of the fingerprints, notify the licensee that the fingerprints were illegible, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services, as required by Section 1522.04, and shall also notify the licensee by mail, within 14 days of electronic transmission of the fingerprints to the Department of Justice, if the person has no criminal history recorded. A violation of the regulations adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548.(3) Except for persons specified in subdivision (b) who are exempt from fingerprinting, the licensee shall endeavor to ascertain the previous employment history of persons required to be fingerprinted. If it is determined by the State Department of Social Services, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the State Department of Social Services shall notify the licensee to act immediately to terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility. The State Department of Social Services may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, except a minor traffic violation, the licensee shall, upon notification by the State Department of Social Services, act immediately to either (A) terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility; or (B) seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the facility until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered. A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by this paragraph shall result in a citation of deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(4) The department may issue an exemption from disqualification on its own motion pursuant to subdivision (g) if the persons criminal history indicates that the person is of good character based on the age, seriousness, and frequency of the conviction or convictions. The department, in consultation with interested parties, shall develop regulations to establish the criteria to grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to this paragraph.(5) Concurrently with notifying the licensee pursuant to paragraph (3), the department shall notify the affected individual of the right to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The individual may seek an exemption from disqualification only if the licensee terminates the persons employment or removes the person from the facility after receiving notice from the department pursuant to paragraph (3).(d) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or certificate of approval to any person or persons to operate a foster family home, certified family home as described in Section 1506, or resource family pursuant to Section 1517 of this code or Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall secure California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal history information to determine whether the applicant or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting has ever been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in subdivision (c) of Section 290 of the Penal Code, for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, subdivision (b) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall not issue a license or certificate of approval to any foster family home, certified family home, or resource family applicant who has not obtained both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g).(2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons.(3) Neither the Department of Justice nor the State Department of Social Services may charge a fee for the fingerprinting of an applicant for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval described in this subdivision. The record, if any, shall be taken into consideration when evaluating a prospective applicant.(4) The following shall apply to the criminal record information:(A) If the applicant or other persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting have convictions that would make the applicants home unfit as a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family, the license, special permit, certificate of approval, or presence shall be denied.(B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial.(C) For purposes of this subdivision, a criminal record clearance provided under Section 8712 of the Family Code may be used by the department or other approving authority.(D) To the same extent required for federal funding, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall submit a set of fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, in addition to the criminal records search required by subdivision (a).(5) Any person specified in this subdivision shall, as a part of the application, be fingerprinted and sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions or arrests for any crime against a child, spousal or cohabitant abuse, or any crime for which the department cannot grant an exemption if the person was convicted and shall submit these fingerprints to the licensing agency or other approving authority.(6) (A) Subsequent to initial licensure, certification, or approval, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall obtain both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance, or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the foster family home, certified family home, or resource family home. A foster family home licensee or foster family agency shall submit fingerprint images and related information of persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). A foster family home licensees or a foster family agencys failure to either prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in a citation of a deficiency, and the immediate civil penalties of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. A violation of the regulation adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550. The State Department of Social Services may assess penalties for continued violations, as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing.(B) Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints. Within five working days of the receipt of the criminal record or information regarding criminal convictions from the Department of Justice, the department shall notify the applicant of any criminal arrests or convictions. If no arrests or convictions are recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency with a statement of that fact concurrent with providing the information to the State Department of Social Services.(7) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application or presence shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g).(8) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds, after licensure or the granting of the certificate of approval, that the licensee, certified foster parent, resource family, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license or certificate of approval may be revoked or rescinded by the department or the foster family agency, whichever is applicable, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(e) (1) The State Department of Social Services shall not use a record of arrest to deny, revoke, rescind, or terminate any application, license, certificate of approval, employment, or residence unless the department investigates the incident and secures evidence, whether or not related to the incident of arrest, that is admissible in an administrative hearing to establish conduct by the person that may pose a risk to the health and safety of any person who is or may become a client.(2) The department shall not issue a criminal record clearance to a person who has been arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, or subdivision (b) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to the completion of an investigation pursuant to paragraph (1).(3) The State Department of Social Services is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties to inspect, license, and investigate community care facilities and individuals associated with a community care facility.(f) (1) For purposes of this chapter, a conviction means a plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere. Any action that the State Department of Social Services is permitted to take following the establishment of a conviction may be taken when the time for appeal has elapsed, when the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal, or when an order granting probation is made suspending the imposition of sentence, notwithstanding a subsequent order pursuant to Sections 1203.4 and 1203.4a of the Penal Code permitting the person to withdraw a plea of guilty and to enter a plea of not guilty, or setting aside the verdict of guilty, or dismissing the accusation, information, or indictment. For purposes of this chapter, the record of a conviction, or a copy thereof certified by the clerk of the court or by a judge of the court in which the conviction occurred, shall be conclusive evidence of the conviction. For purposes of this chapter, the arrest disposition report certified by the Department of Justice, or documents admissible in a criminal action pursuant to Section 969b of the Penal Code, shall be prima facie evidence of the conviction, notwithstanding any other law prohibiting the admission of these documents in a civil or administrative action.(2) For purposes of this chapter, the department shall consider criminal convictions from another state or federal court as if the criminal offense was committed in this state.(g) (1) Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision with respect to a foster care provider applicant, including a relative caregiver, nonrelative extended family member, or resource family, after review of the record, the department may grant an exemption from disqualification for a license or special permit as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a), or for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval as specified in paragraphs (4), (7), and (8) of subdivision (d), or for employment, residence, or presence in a community care facility as specified in paragraphs (3), (4), and (5) of subdivision (c), if the department has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant and the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, are of good character as to justify issuance of the license or special permit or granting an exemption for purposes of subdivision (c). Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision, an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision if the conviction was for any of the following offenses:(A) (i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the department may grant an exemption regarding the conviction for an offense described in paragraph (1), (2), (7), or (8) of subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code, if the employee or prospective employee has been rehabilitated as provided in Section 4852.03 of the Penal Code, has maintained the conduct required in Section 4852.05 of the Penal Code for at least 10 years, and has the recommendation of the district attorney representing the employees county of residence, or if the employee or prospective employee has received a certificate of rehabilitation pursuant to Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 4852.01) of Title 6 of Part 3 of the Penal Code.(B) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code.(C) (i) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (A), an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any applicant for licensure of a community care facility eligible to accept placement of a dependent child if either that applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is associated with the facility has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses:(I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subclause, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A) or subparagraph (B).(II) A felony conviction for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense that occurred within the last five years.(ii) This subparagraph shall be operative to the extent that compliance with these provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.).(2) (A) For a foster care provider applicant, a resource family applicant, or a prospective respite care provider, as described in Section 16501.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, an exemption shall not be granted if that applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, has a conviction for any of the following offenses:(i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code.(ii) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code.(iii) Under no circumstances shall an exemption be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any foster care provider applicant if that applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) in those homes, has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses:(I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subparagraph, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A), or clause (ii) of this subparagraph.(II) A felony conviction, within the last five years, for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense.(III) This clause shall not apply to licenses or approvals wherein a caregiver was granted an exemption to a criminal conviction described in clause (i) prior to the enactment of this clause.(IV) This clause shall remain operative only to the extent that compliance with its provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.).(B) The department or other approving entity may grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider, resource family applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, if the department or other approving entity has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption and the conviction is for one of the following offenses:(i) (I) Any misdemeanor conviction within the last five years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A).(II) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a misdemeanor conviction for statutory rape, as defined in Section 261.5 of the Penal Code, a misdemeanor conviction for indecent exposure, as defined in Section 314 of the Penal Code, or a misdemeanor conviction for financial abuse against an elder, as defined in Section 368 of the Penal Code, shall be eligible for the consideration of an exemption as set forth in subparagraph (C).(ii) Any felony conviction within the last seven years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A).(C) When granting an exemption for a crime listed in subparagraph (B), the department or other approving entity shall consider all reasonably available information, including, but not limited to, the following:(i) The nature of the crime or crimes.(ii) The period of time since the crime was committed.(iii) The number of offenses.(iv) Circumstances surrounding the commission of the crime indicating the likelihood of future criminal activity.(v) Activities since conviction, including employment, participation in therapy, education, or treatment.(vi) Whether the person convicted has successfully completed probation or parole, obtained a certificate of rehabilitation, or been granted a pardon by the Governor.(vii) Any character references or other evidence submitted by the applicant.(viii) Whether the person convicted demonstrated honesty and truthfulness concerning the crime or crimes during the application and approval process and made reasonable efforts to assist the department in obtaining records and documents concerning the crime or crimes.(D) (i) The department or other approving entity shall grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider applicant, resource family applicant, or any person subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, who has been convicted of an offense not listed in subparagraph (A) or (B), if the individuals state and federal criminal history information received from the Department of Justice independently supports a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption.(ii) Notwithstanding the fact that an individual meets the criteria described in clause (i), the department or other approving entity, at its discretion, as necessary to protect the health and safety of a child, may evaluate a person described in clause (i), for purposes of making an exemption decision, pursuant to the criteria described in subparagraphs (B) and (C).(E) This paragraph shall not apply to licenses or approvals for which a caregiver was granted an exemption for a criminal conviction prior to January 1, 2018.(3) The department shall not prohibit a person from being employed or having contact with clients in a facility, certified family home, or resource family home on the basis of a denied criminal record exemption request or arrest information unless the department complies with the requirements of Section 1558 of this code or Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, as applicable.(h) (1) For purposes of compliance with this section, the department may permit an individual to transfer a current criminal record clearance, as defined in subdivision (a), from one facility to another, as long as the criminal record clearance has been processed through a state licensing district office, and is being transferred to another facility licensed by a state licensing district office. The request shall be in writing to the State Department of Social Services, and shall include a copy of the persons drivers license or valid identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, or a valid photo identification issued by another state or the United States government if the person is not a California resident. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the State Department of Social Services shall verify whether the individual has a clearance that can be transferred.(2) The State Department of Social Services shall hold criminal record clearances in its active files for a minimum of three years after an employee is no longer employed at a licensed facility in order for the criminal record clearance to be transferred.(3) A criminal record clearance or exemption processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority shall be accepted by the department or county upon notification of transfer.(4) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 concerning an individual whose criminal record clearance was originally processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, all of the following shall apply:(A) The Department of Justice shall process a request from the department or a county to receive the notice only if all of the following conditions are met:(i) The request shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the agency to be substituted to receive the notification.(ii) The request shall be for the same applicant type as the type for which the original clearance was obtained.(iii) The request shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(B) (i) On or before January 7, 2005, the department shall notify the Department of Justice of all county offices that have department-delegated licensing authority.(ii) The department shall notify the Department of Justice within 15 calendar days of the date on which a new county office receives department-delegated licensing authority or a countys delegated licensing authority is rescinded.(C) The Department of Justice shall charge the department, a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, or a county child welfare agency with criminal record clearance and exemption authority, a fee for each time a request to substitute the recipient agency is received for purposes of this paragraph. This fee shall not exceed the cost of providing the service.(i) The full criminal record obtained for purposes of this section may be used by the department or by a licensed adoption agency as a clearance required for adoption purposes.(j) If a licensee or facility is required by law to deny employment or to terminate employment of any employee based on written notification from the department that the employee has a prior criminal conviction or is determined unsuitable for employment under Section 1558, the licensee or facility shall not incur civil liability or unemployment insurance liability as a result of that denial or termination.(k) The State Department of Social Services may charge a reasonable fee for the costs of processing electronic fingerprint images and related information.SEC. 6. Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1522.1. (a) Prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any individual to care for or reside with children, the department shall check the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 11170 of the Penal Code. The Department of Justice shall maintain and continually update an index of reports of child abuse by providers and shall inform the department of subsequent reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 11170 of the Penal Code and the criminal history. The department shall investigate any reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index. The investigation shall include, but not be limited to, the review of the investigation report and file prepared by the child protective agency which investigated the child abuse report. Licensure or approval shall not be denied based upon a report from the Child Abuse Central Index unless child abuse or severe neglect is substantiated.(b) For any application received on or after January 1, 2008, if any prospective foster parent, or adoptive parent, or any person 18 years of age or older residing in their household, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the licensing agency or licensed adoption agency shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a). The department, in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California, shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect.(c) If any person in the household is 18 years of age or older and has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department or its designated representative shall check the other states child abuse and neglect registry to the same extent required for federal funding, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a), prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any foster family home, certified family home, resource family, or person for whom an adoption home study is conducted or who has filed to adopt.(d) If any licensee of a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child or any associated individual, as described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 1522, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to the Child Abuse Central Index as specified in subdivision (a). The department shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect.SEC. 7. Section 1527 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527. As used in this article:(a) Aircraft includes, but is not limited to, any airplane, glider, or hot air balloon.(b) Bodily injury means any bodily injury, sickness, or disease sustained by any person including death at any time resulting therefrom.(c) Foster child means a person under 19 years of age who has been placed in the care and supervision of licensed foster parents or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(d) (1) Foster parent means the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child in a licensed foster family home or licensed small family home, as defined in Section 1502, or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) On or after January 1, 2020, foster parent shall also mean the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child placed in a tribally approved home by a county child welfare agency, county probation agency, or an Indian tribe that has entered into an agreement pursuant to Section 10553.1 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(e) Occurrence means an accident, including continuous or repeated exposure to conditions, which results in bodily injury or personal injury neither expected nor intended by the foster parent. Multiple incidents of a general course of conduct shall be considered one occurrence, regardless of the period of time during which the acts transpired.(f) Motor vehicle means an automobile, motorcycle, moped, midget automobile, including the type commonly referred to as a kart, go-kart, speedmobile, or by a comparable name whether commercially built or otherwise, trailer or semitrailer designed for travel on public roads, including any machinery or apparatus attached thereto, or snowmobile.(g) Personal injury means any injury to the feelings or reputation of any person or organization arising out of libel, slander, defamation, or disparagement, wrongful eviction, or entry.(h) Property damage means any physical injury to, or destruction of, tangible property, including the loss of use thereof at any time resulting therefrom.(i) Watercraft includes, but is not limited to, any boat, ship, raft, or canoe, whether motorized or not.SEC. 8. Section 1527.1 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.1. There is hereby established the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund within the State Department of Social Services. The fund shall consist of all moneys appropriated by the Legislature. The department may contract with another state agency to set up and operate the fund and perform other administrative functions that may be necessary to carry out the intentions of this article. The purpose of the fund is to pay, on behalf of foster family homes and small family homes, as defined in Section 1502, on or after January 1, 2019, resource families, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem resulting from occurrences peculiar to the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services. The fund may sue and be sued.SEC. 9. Section 1527.2 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.2. The fund, subject to this article, shall pay, on behalf of foster family homes, small family homes, on and after January 1, 2019, resource families, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, any claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem for damages arising from, and peculiar to, the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services, or shall reimburse foster family homes, small family homes, and resource families for those damages.SEC. 10. Section 1527.4 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.4. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, the fund shall not be liable for damages in excess of three hundred thousand dollars ($300,000) for any single foster family home, small family home, on and after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, for all claims arising due to one or more occurrences during any consecutive 12-month period. The fund shall be liable only once for damages arising from one occurrence.SEC. 11. Section 1527.5 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.5. The fund shall be liable, if a claim is approved, to pay on behalf of each licensed foster family home, small family home, on or after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved home, all sums which the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home is obligated to pay as a result of a valid claim of bodily injury or personal injury arising out of the activities of a foster parent or foster parents, which occurs while the foster child resides in the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home. Claims specified in this section of a foster child or a parent, guardian, or guardian ad litem of a foster child shall be the sole responsibility of the fund.SEC. 12. Section 1558 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1558. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility or certified family home, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility or certified family home by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either the people of this state or an individual in, or receiving services from, the facility or certified family home.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility or certified family home, when that person has been convicted of a crime, as defined in Section 1522.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee or certified family home.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility or certified family home, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services.(b) The excluded person, the facility or certified family home, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do both of the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code by the excluded person to conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility or certified family home shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the director has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the director fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility or certified family home, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility or certified family home.(g) A licensees or certified family homes failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) Notwithstanding paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) or subdivision (c) of Section 1550, the department shall take reasonable action, including, but not limited to, prohibiting a person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee of a licensed facility or certified family home, or denying an application for, or suspending or revoking, a license, special permit, certificate of approval, or administrator certificate, issued under this chapter, or denying a transfer of a license pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 1524, upon a finding of a violation of subdivision (i) of Section 11166 of the Penal Code.(j) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 13. Section 1562.02 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1562.02. (a) The department may license a short-term residential therapeutic program operating as a childrens crisis residential program pursuant to this chapter. A childrens crisis residential program shall meet all of the following requirements:(1) If the program serves both children who are not experiencing mental health crises and children who are experiencing mental health crises, the program shall have an identifiable and physically separate unit for those children who are experiencing mental health crises. The separate unit shall be indicated on the short-term residential therapeutic programs license.(2) If the short-term residential therapeutic program operates on a single site both a program that serves children who are not experiencing mental health crises and a separate program that only serves children experiencing mental health crises, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, both of which are issued by the State Department of Health Care Services, or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval.(3) If the short-term residential therapeutic program serves only children experiencing a mental health crisis, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which is issued by the State Department of Health Care Services or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval.(4) Comply with all applicable licensing standards for a short-term residential therapeutic program, unless the department specifies otherwise in regulations that comply with applicable statutory requirements related to licensure.(b) Contingent upon an appropriation in the annual Budget Act for these purposes, the department shall begin implementation of this section no later than July 1, 2018, and shall commence the licensing process for childrens crisis residential programs no later than January 1, 2019.SEC. 14. Section 1568.092 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1568.092. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, aided, or permitted the violation by any other person of this chapter or of any rules or regulations adopted under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, welfare, or safety of either an individual, in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1568.09.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the action of the department and of the right to an appeal of the excluded person. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the action of the department shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of an executive director, a board member, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1568.082.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 15. Section 1569.58 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1569.58. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a licensee, owning a beneficial ownership interest of 10 percent or more in a licensed facility, or being an administrator, officer, director, member, or manager of a licensee or entity controlling a licensee, and may further prohibit any licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client and who has done any of the following:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1569.17.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1569.50.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 16. Section 1596.8897 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1596.8897. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1596.871.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the employee or prospective employee pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, the executive director, or an officer of a licensee prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1596.885 or 1596.886.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 17. Section 11172 of the Penal Code is amended to read:11172. (a) No mandated reporter shall be civilly or criminally liable for any report required or authorized by this article, and this immunity shall apply even if the mandated reporter acquired the knowledge or reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect outside of their professional capacity or outside the scope of their employment. Any other person reporting a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of any report authorized by this article unless it can be proven that a false report was made and the person knew that the report was false or was made with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report, and any person who makes a report of child abuse or neglect known to be false or with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report is liable for any damages caused. No person required to make a report pursuant to this article, nor any person taking photographs at their direction, shall incur any civil or criminal liability for taking photographs of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, or causing photographs to be taken of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, without parental consent, or for disseminating the photographs, images, or material with the reports required by this article. However, this section shall not be construed to grant immunity from this liability with respect to any other use of the photographs.(b) Any person, who, pursuant to a request from a government agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the requesting agency with access to the victim of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that access.(c) Any commercial computer technician, and any employer of any commercial computer technician, who, pursuant to a warrant from a law enforcement agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the law enforcement agency with a computer or computer component which contains possible evidence of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that computer or computer component to the law enforcement agency.(d) Any person who, in good faith, provides information or assistance, including medical evaluations or consultations, to an agency specified in Section 11165.9, in connection with a report, investigation, or legal intervention pursuant to a good faith report of child abuse or neglect under this article, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that information or assistance. This subdivision does not grant immunity from liability for an individual who is suspected of committing abuse or neglect of the child who is the subject of the report.(e) (1) The Legislature finds that even though it has provided immunity from liability to persons required or authorized to make reports pursuant to this article, that immunity does not eliminate the possibility that actions may be brought against those persons based upon required or authorized reports. In order to further limit the financial hardship that those persons may incur as a result of fulfilling their legal responsibilities, it is necessary that they not be unfairly burdened by legal fees incurred in defending those actions. Therefore, a mandated reporter may present a claim to the Department of General Services for reasonable attorneys fees and costs incurred in any action against that person on the basis of making a report required or authorized by this article if the court has dismissed the action upon a demurrer or motion for summary judgment made by that person, or if they prevail in the action. The Department of General Services shall allow that claim if the requirements of this subdivision are met, and the claim shall be paid from an appropriation to be made for that purpose. Attorneys fees awarded pursuant to this section shall not exceed an hourly rate greater than the rate charged by the Attorney General of the State of California at the time the award is made and shall not exceed an aggregate amount of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000).(2) This subdivision shall not apply if a public entity has provided for the defense of the action pursuant to Section 995 of the Government Code.(f) A court may award attorneys fees and costs to a commercial film and photographic print processor when a suit is brought against the processor because of a disclosure mandated by this article and the court finds this suit to be frivolous.SEC. 18. Section 366.3 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:366.3. (a) (1) If a juvenile court orders a permanent plan of adoption, tribal customary adoption, adoption of a nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31, or legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, the court shall retain jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent until the child or nonminor dependent is adopted or the legal guardianship is established, except as provided for in Section 366.29 or, on and after January 1, 2012, Section 366.32. The status of the child or nonminor dependent shall be reviewed every six months to ensure that the adoption or legal guardianship is completed as expeditiously as possible. Following a termination of parental rights, the parent or parents shall not be a party to, or receive notice of, any subsequent proceedings regarding the child.(2) When the adoption of the child or nonminor dependent has been granted, or in the case of a tribal customary adoption, when the tribal customary adoption order has been afforded full faith and credit and the petition for adoption has been granted, the court shall terminate its jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent.(3) Following establishment of a legal guardianship, the court may continue jurisdiction over the child as a dependent child of the juvenile court or may terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the legal guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4. If, however, a relative or nonrelative extended family member of the child is appointed the legal guardian of the child and the guardians home has been approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 for at least six months, the court shall, except if the relative or nonrelative extended family member guardian objects, or upon a finding of exceptional circumstances, terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4.(b) (1) If the court has dismissed dependency jurisdiction following the establishment of a legal guardianship, or no dependency jurisdiction attached because of the granting of a legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360, and the legal guardianship is subsequently revoked or otherwise terminated, the county department of social services or welfare department shall notify the juvenile court of this fact. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child.(2) Notwithstanding Section 1601 of the Probate Code, the proceedings to terminate a legal guardianship that has been granted pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26 shall be held either in the juvenile court that retains jurisdiction over the guardianship as authorized by Section 366.4 or the juvenile court in the county where the guardian and child currently reside, based on the best interests of the child, unless the termination is due to the emancipation or adoption of the child. The juvenile court having jurisdiction over the guardianship shall receive notice from the court in which the petition is filed within five calendar days of the filing. Prior to the hearing on a petition to terminate legal guardianship pursuant to this subdivision, the court shall order the county department of social services or welfare department having jurisdiction or jointly with the county department where the guardian and child currently reside to prepare a report, for the courts consideration, that shall include an evaluation of whether the child could safely remain in, or be returned to, the legal guardians home, without terminating the legal guardianship, if services were provided to the child or legal guardian. If applicable, the report shall also identify recommended family maintenance or reunification services to maintain the legal guardianship and set forth a plan for providing those services. If the petition to terminate legal guardianship is granted, either juvenile court may resume dependency jurisdiction over the child, and may order the county department of social services or welfare department to develop a new permanent plan, which shall be presented to the court within 60 days of the termination. If no dependency jurisdiction has attached, the social worker shall make any investigation the social worker deems necessary to determine whether the child may be within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, as provided in Section 328.(3) Unless the parental rights of the childs parent or parents have been terminated, they shall be notified that the legal guardianship has been revoked or terminated and shall be entitled to participate in the new permanency planning hearing. The court shall try to place the child in another permanent placement. At the hearing, the parents may be considered as custodians but the child shall not be returned to the parent or parents unless they prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that reunification is the best alternative for the child. The court may, if it is in the best interests of the child, order that reunification services again be provided to the parent or parents.(c) If, following the establishment of a legal guardianship, the county welfare department becomes aware of changed circumstances that indicate adoption or, for an Indian child, tribal customary adoption, may be an appropriate plan for the child, the department shall so notify the court. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child and order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26 to determine whether adoption or continued legal guardianship is the most appropriate plan for the child. The hearing shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the order. If the court orders that a hearing shall be held pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services if it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment under subdivision (b) of Section 366.22.(d) If the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent is in a placement other than the home of a legal guardian and jurisdiction has not been dismissed, the status of the child shall be reviewed at least every six months. The review of the status of a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption shall be conducted by the court. The review of the status of a child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent for whom the court has not ordered parental rights terminated and who has not been ordered placed for adoption may be conducted by the court or an appropriate local agency. The court shall conduct the review under the following circumstances:(1) Upon the request of the childs parents or legal guardians.(2) Upon the request of the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent.(3) It has been 12 months since a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 or an order that the child remain in foster care pursuant to Section 366.21, 366.22, 366.25, 366.26, or subdivision (h).(4) It has been 12 months since a review was conducted by the court.The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.(e) Except as provided in subdivision (g), at the review held every six months pursuant to subdivision (d), the reviewing body shall inquire about the progress being made to provide a permanent home for the child, shall consider the safety of the child, and shall determine all of the following:(1) The continuing necessity for, and appropriateness of, the placement.(2) Identification of individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to a child who is 10 years of age or older and has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer, and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The social worker shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer to identify individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to the child, and may ask any other child to provide that information, as appropriate. The social worker shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interests.(3) The continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the permanent plan for the child, including efforts to maintain relationships between a child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer and individuals who are important to the child and efforts to identify a prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange.(4) The extent of the agencys compliance with the child welfare services case plan in making reasonable efforts either to return the child to the safe home of the parent or to complete whatever steps are necessary to finalize the permanent placement of the child. If the reviewing body determines that a second period of reunification services is in the childs best interests, and that there is a significant likelihood of the childs return to a safe home due to changed circumstances of the parent, pursuant to subdivision (f), the specific reunification services required to effect the childs return to a safe home shall be described.(5) Whether there should be any limitation on the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child. That limitation shall be specifically addressed in the court order and may not exceed what is necessary to protect the child. If the court specifically limits the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child, the court shall at the same time appoint a responsible adult to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child pursuant to Section 361.(6) The adequacy of services provided to the child. The court shall consider the progress in providing the information and documents to the child, as described in Section 391. The court shall also consider the need for, and progress in providing, the assistance and services described in Section 391.(7) The extent of progress the parents or legal guardians have made toward alleviating or mitigating the causes necessitating placement in foster care.(8) The likely date by which the child may be returned to, and safely maintained in, the home, placed for adoption, legal guardianship, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or, if the child is 16 years of age or older, and no other permanent plan is appropriate at the time of the hearing, in another planned permanent living arrangement.(9) Whether the child has any siblings under the courts jurisdiction, and, if any siblings exist, all of the following:(A) The nature of the relationship between the child and their siblings.(B) The appropriateness of developing or maintaining the sibling relationships pursuant to Section 16002. At the first review conducted for a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, the court shall inquire into the status of the development of a voluntary postadoption sibling contact agreement pursuant to subdivision (e) of Section 16002.(C) If the siblings are not placed together in the same home, why the siblings are not placed together and what efforts are being made to place the siblings together, or why those efforts are not appropriate.(D) If the siblings are not placed together, all of the following:(i) The frequency and nature of the visits between the siblings.(ii) If there are visits between the siblings, whether the visits are supervised or unsupervised. If the visits are supervised, a discussion of the reasons why the visits are supervised, and what needs to be accomplished in order for the visits to be unsupervised.(iii) If there are visits between the siblings, a description of the location and length of the visits.(iv) Any plan to increase visitation between the siblings.(E) The impact of the sibling relationships on the childs placement and planning for legal permanence.The factors the court may consider as indicators of the nature of the childs sibling relationships include, but are not limited to, whether the siblings were raised together in the same home, whether the siblings have shared significant common experiences or have existing close and strong bonds, whether either sibling expresses a desire to visit or live with their sibling, as applicable, and whether ongoing contact is in the childs best emotional interests.(10) For a child who is 14 years of age or older, and, effective January 1, 2012, for a nonminor dependent, the services needed to assist the child or nonminor dependent to make the transition from foster care to successful adulthood.The reviewing body shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.Each licensed foster family agency shall submit reports for each child in its care, custody, and control to the court concerning the continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the childs permanent plan, the extent of compliance with the case plan, and the type and adequacy of services provided to the child.(f) Unless their parental rights have been permanently terminated, the parent or parents of the child are entitled to receive notice of, and participate in, those hearings. It shall be presumed that continued care is in the best interests of the child, unless the parent or parents prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that further efforts at reunification are the best alternative for the child. In those cases, the court may order that further reunification services to return the child to a safe home environment be provided to the parent or parents up to a period of six months, and family maintenance services, as needed for an additional six months in order to return the child to a safe home environment. On and after January 1, 2012, this subdivision shall not apply to the parents of a nonminor dependent.(g) At the review conducted by the court and held at least every six months, regarding a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child for whom parental rights are not being terminated and a tribal customary adoption is being considered, the county welfare department shall prepare and present to the court a report describing the following:(1) The childs present placement.(2) The childs current physical, mental, emotional, and educational status.(3) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or guardian, identification of individuals, other than the childs siblings, who are important to the child and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The agency shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older to identify any individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interest, and may ask any child who is younger than 10 years of age to provide that information as appropriate. The agency shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child.(4) Whether the child has been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents.(5) Whether an adoptive placement agreement has been signed and filed.(6) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents, the efforts made to identify an appropriate prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange.(7) Whether the final adoption order should include provisions for postadoptive sibling contact pursuant to Section 366.29.(8) The progress of the search for an adoptive placement if one has not been identified.(9) Any impediments to the adoption or the adoptive placement.(10) The anticipated date by which the child will be adopted or placed in an adoptive home.(11) The anticipated date by which an adoptive placement agreement will be signed.(12) Recommendations for court orders that will assist in the placement of the child for adoption or in the finalization of the adoption.The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.The court shall make appropriate orders to protect the stability of the child and to facilitate and expedite the permanent placement and adoption of the child.(h) (1) At the review held pursuant to subdivision (d) for a child in foster care, the court shall consider all permanency planning options for the child including whether the child should be returned to the home of the parent, placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or appointed a legal guardian, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, if compelling reasons exist for finding that none of the foregoing options are in the best interest of the child and the child is 16 years of age or older, whether the child should be placed in another planned permanent living arrangement. The court shall order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26, unless it determines by clear and convincing evidence that there is a compelling reason for determining that a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 is not in the best interest of the child because the child is being returned to the home of the parent, the child is not a proper subject for adoption, or no one is willing to accept legal guardianship as of the hearing date. If the county adoption agency, or the department when it is acting as an adoption agency, has determined it is unlikely that the child will be adopted or one of the conditions described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c) of Section 366.26 applies, that fact shall constitute a compelling reason for purposes of this subdivision. Only upon that determination may the court order that the child remain in foster care, without holding a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26. The court shall make factual findings identifying any barriers to achieving the permanent plan as of the hearing date. On and after January 1, 2012, the nonminor dependents legal status as an adult is in and of itself a compelling reason not to hold a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26.(2) When the child is 16 years of age or older and in another planned permanent living arrangement, the court shall do all of the following:(A) Ask the child about their desired permanency outcome.(B) Make a judicial determination explaining why, as of the hearing date, another planned permanent living arrangement is the best permanency plan for the child.(C) State for the record the compelling reason or reasons why it continues not to be in the best interest of the child to return home, be placed for adoption, be placed for tribal customary adoption in the case of an Indian child, be placed with a legal guardian, or be placed with a fit and willing relative.(3) When the child is 16 years of age or older and is in another planned permanent living arrangement, the social study prepared for the hearing shall include a description of all of the following:(A) The intensive and ongoing efforts to return the child to the home of the parent, place the child for adoption, or establish a legal guardianship, as appropriate.(B) The steps taken to do both of the following:(i) Ensure that the childs care provider is following the reasonable and prudent parent standard.(ii) Determine whether the child has regular, ongoing opportunities to engage in age or developmentally appropriate activities, including consulting with the child about opportunities for the child to participate in those activities.(4) When the child is under 16 years of age and has a permanent plan of return home, adoption, legal guardianship, or placement with a fit and willing relative, the social study shall include a description of any barriers to achieving the permanent plan and the efforts made by the agency to address those barriers.(i) If, as authorized by subdivision (h), the court orders a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services when it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment as provided for in subdivision (i) of Section 366.21 or subdivision (b) of Section 366.22. A hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the 12-month review at which it is ordered, and at that hearing the court shall determine whether adoption, tribal customary adoption, legal guardianship, placement with a fit and willing relative, or, for a child 16 years of age or older, another planned permanent living arrangement is the most appropriate plan for the child. On and after January 1, 2012, a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26 shall not be ordered if the child is a nonminor dependent, unless the nonminor dependent is an Indian child and tribal customary adoption is recommended as the permanent plan. The court may order that a nonminor dependent who otherwise is eligible pursuant to Section 11403 remain in a planned, permanent living arrangement. At the request of the nonminor dependent who has an established relationship with an adult determined to be the nonminor dependents permanent connection, the court may order adoption of the nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31.(j) The reviews conducted pursuant to subdivision (a) or (d) may be conducted earlier than every six months if the court determines that an earlier review is in the best interests of the child or as court rules prescribe.SEC. 19. Section 727.05 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, immediately following Section 727, to read:727.05. (a) Notwithstanding paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 727, the probation agency may make an emergency placement of a minor ordered into its care, custody, and control with a relative or nonrelative extended family member.(b) Prior to making the emergency placement, the probation agency shall do all of the following:(1) Conduct an in-home inspection to assess the safety of the home and the ability of the relative or nonrelative extended family member to care for the minors needs.(2) Ensure that a state-level criminal records check is conducted by an appropriate government agency through the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) pursuant to Section 16504.5 for all of the following:(A) Any person over 18 years of age living in the home of the relative or nonrelative extended family member who seeks emergency placement of the minor, excluding any person who is a nonminor dependent, as defined in subdivision (v) of Section 11400.(B) At the discretion of the probation agency, any person over 18 years of age known to the agency to be regularly present in the home, other than any professional providing professional services to the minor.(C) At the discretion of the agency, any person over 14 years of age living in the home who the agency believes may have a criminal record, excluding any child who is under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court.(3) Conduct a check of allegations of prior child abuse or neglect concerning the relative or nonrelative extended family member and other adults in the home.(c) (1) If the CLETS information that is obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has no criminal record, the probation agency may place the minor in the home on an emergency basis.(2) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (D) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home unless a criminal records exemption has been granted using the exemption criteria specified in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) Notwithstanding paragraph (2), a minor may be placed on an emergency basis if the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense not described in subclause (II) of clause (i) of subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pending a criminal records exemption decision based on live scan fingerprint results if all of the following conditions are met:(A) The conviction does not involve an offense against a child.(B) The chief probation officer, or their designee, determines that the placement is in the best interests of the minor.(C) No party to the case objects to the placement.(4) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been arrested for any offense described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed on an emergency basis in the home until the investigation required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code has been completed and the chief probation officer, or their designee, and the court have considered the investigation results when determining whether the placement is in the best interests of the child.(5) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home on an emergency basis.(d) If the relative or nonrelative extended family member has not submitted an application for approval as a resource family at the time of the emergency placement, the probation agency shall require the relative or nonrelative extended family member to submit the application and initiate the home environment assessment no later than five business days after the emergency placement.(e) Unless the fingerprint clearance check has already been initiated, the probation agency shall ensure that, within five days of the emergency placement, a fingerprint clearance check of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and any other person whose criminal record was obtained pursuant to this section is initiated through the Department of Justice to ensure the accuracy of the criminal records check conducted through the CLETS and to ensure criminal record clearance of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and all adults in the home pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 and any associated written directives or regulations.(f) An identification card from a foreign consulate or foreign passport shall be considered a valid form of identification for conducting a criminal records check pursuant to this section.SEC. 20. Section 11405 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11405. (a) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), AFDC-FC benefits shall be paid to an otherwise eligible child living with a nonrelated legal guardian, provided that the legal guardian cooperates with the county welfare department in all of the following:(1) Developing a written assessment of the childs needs.(2) Updating the assessment no less frequently than once every six months.(3) Carrying out the case plan developed by the county.(b) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), when AFDC-FC is applied for on behalf of a child living with a nonrelated legal guardian the county welfare department shall do all of the following:(1) Develop a written assessment of the childs needs.(2) Update those assessments no less frequently than once every six months.(3) Develop a case plan that specifies how the problems identified in the assessment are to be addressed.(4) Make visits to the child as often as appropriate, but in no event less often than once every six months.(c) Where the child is a parent and has a child living with them in the same eligible facility, the assessment required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) shall include the needs of their child.(d) Nonrelated legal guardians of eligible children who are in receipt of AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be exempt from the requirement to register with the Statewide Registry of Private Professional Guardians pursuant to former Sections 2850 and 2851 of the Probate Code.(e) (1) On and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor youth whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in juvenile court pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, and whose dependency was dismissed, shall remain eligible for AFDC-FC benefits until the youth attains 19 years of age, effective January 1, 2013, until the youth attains 20 years of age, and effective January 1, 2014, until the youth attains 21 years of age, provided that the youth enters into a mutual agreement with the agency responsible for their guardianship, and the youth is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403.(2) A nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400, shall be eligible for benefits under this section until the youth attains 21 years of age if all of the following conditions are met:(A) The nonminor former dependent or ward attained 18 years of age while in receipt of Kin-GAP benefits pursuant to Article 4.7 (commencing with Section 11385).(B) The nonminors relationship to the kinship guardian is defined in paragraph (2), (3), or (4) of subdivision (c) of Section 11391.(C) The nonminor was under 16 years of age at the time the Kin-GAP negotiated agreement payments commenced.(D) The guardian continues to be responsible for the support of the nonminor.(E) The nonminor otherwise is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403.(f) On or after January 1, 2012, a child whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in probate court pursuant Article 2 (commencing with Section 1510) of Chapter 1 of Part 2 of Division 4 of the Probate Code, who is attending high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or who is in the process of pursuing a high school equivalency certificate before their 18th birthday may continue to receive aid following their 18th birthday as long as the child continues to reside in the guardians home, remains otherwise eligible for AFDC-FC benefits and continues to attend high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or continues to pursue a high school equivalency certificate, and the child may reasonably be expected to complete the educational or training program or to receive a high school equivalency certificate, before their 19th birthday. Aid shall be provided to an individual pursuant to this section provided that both the individual and the agency responsible for the foster care placement have signed a mutual agreement, if the individual is capable of making an informed agreement, documenting the continued need for out-of-home placement.(g) (1) For cases in which a guardianship was established on or before June 30, 2011, or the date specified in a final order, for which the time for appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association, et al. v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. No. C 07-05086 WHA), whichever is earlier, the AFDC-FC payment described in this section shall be the foster family home rate structure in effect before the effective date specified in the order described in this paragraph.(2) For cases in which guardianship has been established on or after July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the order described in paragraph (1), whichever is earlier, and through December 31, 2016, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be the basic foster family home rate structure effective and available as of December 31, 2016.(3) For cases in which guardianship has been established by the juvenile court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the home-based family care rate structure developed pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 11461 and Section 11463.(4) For cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the basic level rate of the home-based family care rate structure.(5) Beginning with the 201112 fiscal year, the AFDC-FC payments identified in this subdivision shall be adjusted annually by the percentage change in the California Necessities Index rate as set forth in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461.(h) In addition to the AFDC-FC rate paid, all of the following also shall be paid:(1) A specialized care increment, if applicable, as set forth in subdivision (e) of Section 11461.(2) A clothing allowance, as set forth in subdivision (f) of Section 11461.(3) For a child eligible for an AFDC-FC payment who is a teen parent, the rate shall include the two-hundred-dollar ($200) monthly payment made to the relative caregiver in a whole family foster home pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (d) of Section 11465.SEC. 21. Section 11461 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11461. (a) For children or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependents placed in a licensed or approved family home with a capacity of six or less, or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelated legal guardian, or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, or, on and after January 1, 2012, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rates in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period July 1, 1989, through December 31, 1989: AgeBasic rate 04 ........................ $294 58 ........................ $319 911 ........................ $3401214 ........................ $3781520 ........................ $412(b) (1) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that is at the levels set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive state participation, as specified in subdivision (c) of Section 15200, at these levels.(2) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that exceeds a level set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive the same level of state participation as it received on October 1, 1989.(c) The amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted as follows:(1) Effective January 1, 1990, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 12 percent.(2) Effective May 1, 1990, any county that did not increase the basic rate by 12 percent on January 1, 1990, shall do both of the following:(A) Increase the basic rate in effect December 31, 1989, for which state participation is received by 12 percent.(B) Increase the basic rate, as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (A), by an additional 5 percent.(3) (A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B), effective July 1, 1990, for the 199091 fiscal year, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by an additional 5 percent.(B) The rate increase required by subparagraph (A) shall not be applied to rates increased May 1, 1990, pursuant to paragraph (2).(4) Effective July 1, 1998, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 6 percent. Notwithstanding any other law, the 6-percent increase provided for in this paragraph shall, retroactive to July 1, 1998, apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group.(5) Notwithstanding any other law, any increase that takes effect after July 1, 1998, shall apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group.(6) The increase in the basic foster family home rate shall apply only to children placed in a licensed foster family home receiving the basic rate or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, or a nonrelated legal guardian receiving the basic rate. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster homes.(d) (1) (A) Beginning with the 199192 fiscal year, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted by the percentage changes in the California Necessities Index, computed pursuant to the methodology described in Section 11453, subject to the availability of funds.(B) In addition to the adjustment in subparagraph (A) effective January 1, 2000, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 2.36 percent rounded to the nearest dollar.(C) Effective January 1, 2008, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a), as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (B), shall be increased by 5 percent, rounded to the nearest dollar. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster family homes, and shall not be used to recompute the foster care maintenance payment that would have been paid based on the age-related, state-approved foster family home care rate and any applicable specialized care increment, for any adoption assistance agreement entered into prior to October 1, 1992, or in any subsequent reassessment for adoption assistance agreements executed before January 1, 2008.(2) (A) Any county that, as of the 199192 fiscal year, receives state participation for a basic rate that exceeds the amount set forth in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall receive an increase each year in state participation for that basic rate of one-half of the percentage adjustments specified in paragraph (1) until the difference between the countys adjusted state participation level for its basic rate and the adjusted schedule of basic rates is eliminated.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), all counties for the 19992000 fiscal year and the 200708 fiscal year shall receive an increase in state participation for the basic rate of the entire percentage adjustment described in paragraph (1).(3) If a county has, after receiving the adjustments specified in paragraph (2), a state participation level for a basic rate that is below the amount set forth in the adjusted schedule of basic rates for that fiscal year, the state participation level for that rate shall be further increased to the amount specified in the adjusted schedule of basic rates.(e) (1) As used in this section, specialized care increment means an amount paid on behalf of a child requiring specialized care to a home listed in subdivision (g) in addition to the basic rate. Notwithstanding subdivision (g), the specialized care increment shall not be paid to a nonminor dependent placed in a supervised independent living setting as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11403. A county may have a ratesetting system for specialized care to pay for the additional care and supervision needed to address the behavioral, emotional, and physical requirements of foster children. A county may modify its specialized care rate system as needed, to accommodate changing specialized placement needs of children.(2) (A) The department shall have the authority to review the countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used for compliance with state and federal law, and to require counties to make changes if necessary to conform to state and federal law.(B) The department shall make available to the public each countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used to determine the specialized care increments.(3) Upon a request by a county for technical assistance, specialized care information shall be provided by the department within 90 days of the request to the department.(4) (A) Except for subparagraph (B), beginning January 1, 1990, specialized care increments shall be adjusted in accordance with the methodology for the schedule of basic rates described in subdivisions (c) and (d).(B) Notwithstanding subdivision (e) of Section 11460, for the 199394 fiscal year, an amount equal to 5 percent of the State Treasury appropriation for family homes shall be added to the total augmentation for the AFDC-FC program in order to provide incentives and assistance to counties in the area of specialized care. This appropriation shall be used, but not limited to, encouraging counties to implement or expand specialized care payment systems, to recruit and train foster parents for the placement of children with specialized care needs, and to develop county systems to encourage the placement of children in family homes. It is the intent of the Legislature that in the use of these funds, federal financial participation shall be claimed whenever possible.(C) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the specialized care increment shall not receive a cost-of-living adjustment in the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), a county may choose to apply a cost-of-living adjustment to its specialized care increment during the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years. To the extent that a county chooses to apply a cost-of-living adjustment during that time, the state shall not participate in the costs of that adjustment.(iii) To the extent that federal financial participation is available for a cost-of-living adjustment made by a county pursuant to clause (ii), it is the intent of the Legislature that the federal funding shall be utilized.(5) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and for each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this subdivision shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code.(f) (1) As used in this section, clothing allowance means the amount paid by a county, at the countys option, in addition to the basic rate for the provision of additional clothing for a child, including, but not limited to, an initial supply of clothing and school or other uniforms. The frequency and level of funding shall be based on the needs of the child, as determined by the county.(2) The state shall no longer participate in any clothing allowance in addition to the basic rate, commencing with the 201112 fiscal year.(g) (1) Notwithstanding subdivisions (a) to (d), inclusive, for a child, or on and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor dependent, placed in a licensed foster family home or with a resource family, or placed in an approved home of a relative or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member as described in Section 362.7, or placed on and after January 1, 2012, in a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rate in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period commencing July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the final order, for which the time to appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. C 07-08056 WHA), whichever is earlier, through June 30, 2012:AgeBasic rate 04 ........................ $609 58 ........................ $660 911 ........................ $6951214 ........................ $7271520 ........................ $761(2) Commencing July 1, 2011, the basic rate set forth in this subdivision shall be annually adjusted on July 1 by the annual percentage change in the California Necessities Index applicable to the calendar year within which each July 1 occurs.(3) Subdivisions (e) and (f) shall apply to payments made pursuant to this subdivision.(4) (A) (i) For the 201617 fiscal year, the department shall develop a basic rate in coordination with the development of the foster family agency rate authorized in Section 11463 that ensures a child placed in a home-based setting described in paragraph (1), and a child placed in a certified family home or with a resource family approved by a foster family agency, is eligible for the same basic rate set forth in this paragraph.(ii) The rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(iii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020.(B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family approved by a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the certified family home or resource family from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to Section 11463.(C) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the basic rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(D) The basic rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to subparagraph (C) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(h) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this section shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code.SEC. 22. Section 11462 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11462. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for short-term residential therapeutic program placements claiming Title IV-E funding, in consultation with county placing agencies and providers.(b) The department shall develop a rate system that includes consideration of all of the following factors:(1) Core services, made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through formal agreements with other agencies, which are trauma informed and culturally relevant and include:(A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services under the Medi-Cal Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment program.(B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship.(C) Educational and physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports.(D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood.(E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate.(F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services described in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, which shall be provided to eligible children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7.(G) (i) Facilitating the identification and, as needed, the approval of resource families pursuant to Section 16519.5, for the purpose of transitioning children and youth to family-based care.(ii) If a short-term residential therapeutic program elects to approve and monitor resource families directly, the program shall comply with all laws applicable to foster family agencies, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code).(iii) For short-term residential therapeutic programs that elect to approve and monitor resource families directly, the department shall have all the same duties and responsibilities as those programs have for licensed foster family agencies, as set forth in applicable law, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code).(2) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (G), inclusive, of paragraph (1) are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent they are already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, or school-based extracurricular activities.(3) Specialized and intensive treatment supports that encompass the elements of nonmedical care and supervision necessary to meet a childs or youths safety and other needs that cannot be met in a family-based setting.(4) Staff training.(5) Health and Safety Code requirements.(6) Accreditation that includes:(A) Provision for all licensed short-term residential therapeutic programs to obtain and maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency, as identified by the department, with expertise in programs for children or youth group care facilities, as determined by the department.(B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying that agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required.(C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status.(7) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status.(8) Maximization of federal financial participation under Title IV-E and Title XIX of the Social Security Act.(c) The department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b) commencing January 1, 2017. The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new short-term residential therapeutic programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives.(1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020.(B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (3) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021.(2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, the following shall be established:(A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate.(B) An administrative review process for rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations.(C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and a protest with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations.(3) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the initial interim rates, provisional rates, and probationary rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety audits and reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers.SEC. 23. Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11463. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for the Title IV-E funded foster family agency placement option that maximizes federal funding, in consultation with county placing agencies.(b) The department shall develop a payment system for foster family agencies that provide treatment, intensive treatment, and therapeutic foster care programs, and shall consider all of the following factors:(1) Administrative activities that are eligible for federal financial participation provided, at the request of the county, for and to county-licensed or approved family homes and resource families, intensive case management and supervision, and services to achieve legal permanency or successful transition to adulthood.(2) Social work activities that are eligible for federal financial participation under Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(3) Social work and mental health services eligible for federal financial participation under Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(4) Intensive treatment or therapeutic services in the foster family agency.(5) Core services that are made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through agreements with other agencies, and which are trauma informed, culturally relevant, and include any of the following:(A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.(B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship.(C) Educational, physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports.(D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood.(E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate.(F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, shall be provided to eligible Indian children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7.(G) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (F), inclusive, are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, and school-based extracurricular activities.(6) Staff training.(7) Health and Safety Code requirements.(8) A process for accreditation that includes all of the following:(A) Provision for all licensed foster family agencies to maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency with expertise in programs for youth group care facilities, as determined by the department.(B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying the agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required.(C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status.(9) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status.(10) Populations served, including, but not limited to, any of the following:(A) (i) Children and youth assessed as seriously emotionally disturbed, as described in subdivision (a) of Section 5600.3, including those children and youth placed out-of-home pursuant to an individualized education program developed under Article 2 (commencing with Section 56320) of Chapter 4 of Part 30 of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Education Code.(ii) Children assessed as meeting the medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.(B) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving intensive and therapeutic treatment services in a foster family agency.(C) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving mental health treatment services from a foster family agency.(11) Maximization of federal financial participation for Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) and Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et. seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(c) Commencing January 1, 2017, the department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b). The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new foster family agency programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives.(1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020.(B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (4) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021.(2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, all of the following shall be established:(A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate.(B) An administrative review process for the rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations.(C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and an appeal with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations.(3) (A) (i) The foster family agency rate shall include a basic rate pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461. A child or youth placed in a certified family home or with a resource family of a foster family agency is eligible for the basic rate, which shall be passed on to the certified parent or resource family along with annual increases in accordance with paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461.(ii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate as set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020.(B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family of a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the home from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to this section.(C) In addition to the basic rate described in this paragraph, the department shall develop foster family agency rates that consider specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(i) Intensive treatment and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care.(ii) Specialized health care needs.(4) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the foster family agency rates, and the manner in which they are determined, shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers.(e) The department shall consider the impact on children and youth being transitioned to alternate programs as a result of the new ratesetting system.(f) (1) Commencing July 1, 2019, the rates paid to foster family agencies shall, except for the rate paid to a certified family home or resource family agency pursuant to clause (i) of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c), be 4.15 percent higher than the rates paid to foster family agencies in the 201819 fiscal year.(2) (A) The rate increase described in paragraph (1) shall be suspended on December 31, 2021, unless subparagraph (B) applies.(B) If, in the determination of the Department of Finance, the estimates of General Fund revenues and expenditures determined pursuant to Section 12.5 of Article IV of the California Constitution that accompany the May Revision required to be released by May 14, 2021, pursuant to Section 13308 of the Government Code, contain projected annual General Fund revenues that exceed projected annual General Fund expenditures in the 202122 and 202223 fiscal years by the sum total of General Fund moneys appropriated for all programs subject to suspension on December 31, 2021, pursuant to the Budget Act of 2019 and the bills providing for appropriations related to the Budget Act of 2019 within the meaning of subdivision (e) of Section 12 of Article IV of the California Constitution, then the implementation of the rate increase described in this subdivision shall not be suspended pursuant to subparagraph (A).(C) If subparagraph (A) applies, it is the intent of the Legislature to consider alternative solutions to facilitate the continued implementation of the rate increase described in paragraph (1).SEC. 24. Section 16501.95 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, immediately following Section 16501.9, to read:16501.95. (a) The State Department of Social Services shall determine which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in Section 1355.51 of Title 45 of the Code of Federal Regulations.(b) The department shall develop and issue written directives for child welfare contributing agencies to submit data to the applicable statewide child welfare case management systems. These directives shall address all of the following:(1) Identification of which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in federal regulations.(2) The data that a child welfare contributing agency shall provide.(3) The method in which a child welfare contributing agency shall provide data, which shall include either of the following:(A) Direct data entry into the states child welfare case management system.(B) A bidirectional data exchange between the information systems maintained by the child welfare contributing agency and the states child welfare case management system.(4) A timeline for providing the specified data in the required manner.(c) In accordance with the written directives of the department, a child welfare contributing agency shall provide child welfare services data that is collected as a result of fulfilling their contracts or agreements with the department or a county child welfare department, to the statewide child welfare case management system.(d) Notwithstanding any other law, until regulations are adopted, the department may issue written directives by provider bulletins or all-county letters, as applicable. These written directives shall have the same force and effect as regulations. The written directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code).SEC. 25. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.SEC. 25.1. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.SEC. 25.2. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 25.3. Section 16519.5 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics:(i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation.(ii) Harm reduction.(iii) Trauma-informed care.(iv) Available county and state resources.(v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation.(B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph.(C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited.(D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means.(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021.SEC. 25.4. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 25.5. Section 16519.5 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics:(i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation.(ii) Harm reduction.(iii) Trauma-informed care.(iv) Available county and state resources.(v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation.(B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph.(C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited.(D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means.(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021.SEC. 26. Section 16519.58 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.58. (a) A resource family approved by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code may transfer their approval to a county upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete the following activities:(A) Submit to the county information necessary to initiate the transfer process on a form specified by the department.(B) Authorize the county to request that clearances and exemptions issued to the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home be transferred from the department to the county pursuant to subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(C) Cooperate with the county in conducting an approval update as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5.(2) The county shall complete the following activities:(A) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, submit a request to the Department of Justice as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5.(i) The county shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the licensed foster family agency.(ii) The licensed foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the county within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(b) A county may deny a resource familys request to transfer approval to a county for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61. If the county denies a resource familys request, the resource family shall be entitled to a hearing as specified in Section 16519.6.(c) Resource family approval by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code shall be forfeited by operation of law upon the transfer of the resource family approval to a county in accordance with this section.(d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Department means the State Department of Social Services.(2) County means a county child welfare or probation department.SEC. 27. Section 18360.05 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:18360.05. (a) The department shall develop an intensive services foster care program that provides specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, the following:(1) Intensive services and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care.(2) Specialized health care needs, including those with special health care needs, as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 17710.(b) The department shall develop a program that includes a private nonprofit delivery model and a public delivery model.(c) The rate paid to an intensive services foster care resource family shall be the same whether it is paid through a licensed foster family agency model or public delivery model and shall be established pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463.(d) The rate paid to the foster family agency shall be developed pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463.(e) This chapter does not waive the requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 or Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code.(f) A licensed foster family agency or county that operates a public delivery model intensive services foster care program is not prohibited from also operating as a therapeutic foster care service model program agency.(g) A county that operates as a public delivery model shall submit to the department a program description that sets forth the manner in which it will substantially comply with the requirements of this chapter and Sections 11467, 11469.2, and 11469.3.(h) The department shall adopt regulations to implement this chapter. Until regulations are adopted, the department may administer the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code).SEC. 28. Section 18360.15 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:18360.15. (a) Each licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall develop a childs individual needs and services plan in coordination with the childs case worker, intensive services foster care resource family, and child and family team, if available. A county operating under a public delivery model or as a licensed foster family agency model may utilize the childs case plan as the individual needs and services plan.(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 17732, no more than three foster children, two of whom may be eligible children, may be placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home. Prior to the placement of a second or third foster child in the home, who may be an eligible or noneligible child, the requirements of paragraphs (1), (2), (3), and (4) of subdivision (c) shall be met.(c) Notwithstanding subdivision (b), a county placing agency may approve placements for additional foster children that would result in the placement of more than three foster children or more than two eligible children in the home in compelling circumstances, including in order to accommodate a preexisting relationship, to place a sibling group together when at least one sibling is an eligible child or was previously an eligible child in that home, or to accommodate the extraordinary needs of a specific child that the resource family has a unique ability to meet. A shortage of foster homes shall not be a compelling circumstance absent other factors. Prior to the approval of the placement of additional foster children beyond the capacity described in subdivision (b), all of the following requirements shall be met:(1) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide each county placing agency that has children placed in that home or proposed to be placed in the home with a written assessment of the risk and compatibility of placing an additional child or children with the currently placed child or children in that home, and the ability of the resource family parent or parents to provide care and support for all of the children in the home.(2) The needs and services plan of each child placed in the home shall specify the plan to ensure timely support and services for each child placed in the home.(3) When a child and family team meeting has been conducted, the county placing agency shall consider information from the child and family teams of all children placed in the home or proposed to be placed that may impact placement.(4) The capacity of the home shall not exceed the number determined by the department or county pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4.(5) The total number of eligible children placed in the home shall not exceed three unless all eligible children are related.(6) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide to the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home with the written assessment of risk and compatibility and needs and services plans described in paragraphs (1) and (2).(7) Placement of a child in the home pursuant to this subdivision shall be subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all of the county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home.(d) If a foster child resides in an intensive services foster care resource family home pursuant to subdivision (b) or (c), and this foster child is being considered for intensive services foster care, and subsequently becomes a third eligible child, the continued placement of this child is authorized subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all the county placing agencies with children placed in the home.(e) The county placing agency shall notify the department of each child in the placement and notify counsel of each child in the placement within 10 days of approval of a placement pursuant to subdivision (c) or approval to maintain a placement pursuant to subdivision (d). As part of the notification to the department, the county shall provide the department with a copy of the written assessment of the risk and compatibility described in subdivision (c).SEC. 29. Section 18360.20 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read:18360.20. The department, in consultation with counties and other stakeholders, shall consider options to expand the number of available resource families who are willing to provide intensive services foster care, including, but not limited to, the feasibility of counties and foster family agencies contracting with each other for services.SEC. 30. (a) Section 3.5 of this bill incorporates amendments to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 686. That section shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, and (3) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686, in which case Section 3 of this bill shall not become operative.(b) (1) Section 25.1 of this bill incorporates amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 686. That section shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and (3) Assembly Bill 865 is not enacted or as enacted does not amend that section, and (4) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686, in which case Sections 25, 25.2, 25.3, 25.4, and 25.5 of this bill shall not become operative.(2) Sections 25.2 and 25.3 of this bill incorporate amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 865. These sections shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, (3) Assembly Bill 686 is not enacted or as enacted does not amend that section, and (4) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 865 in which case Sections 25, 25.1, 25.4, and 25.5 of this bill shall not become operative.(3) Sections 25.4 and 25.5 of this bill incorporate amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by this bill, Assembly Bill 686, and Assembly Bill 865. These sections shall only become operative if (1) all three bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) all three bills amend Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and (3) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686 and Assembly Bill 865, in which case Sections 25, 25.1, 25.2, and 25.3 of this bill shall not become operative.SEC. 31. To the extent that this act has an overall effect of increasing the costs already borne by a local agency for programs or levels of service mandated by the 2011 Realignment Legislation within the meaning of Section 36 of Article XIII of the California Constitution, it shall apply to local agencies only to the extent that the state provides annual funding for the cost increase. Any new program or higher level of service provided by a local agency pursuant to this act above the level for which funding has been provided shall not require a subvention of funds by the state or otherwise be subject to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.With regard to certain other costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district, no reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because, in that regard, this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution. SEC. 32. No appropriation pursuant to Section 15200 of the Welfare and Institutions Code shall be made for purposes of this act. |
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| 3 | | - | Assembly Bill No. 819 CHAPTER 777An act to amend Sections 1506.1, 1507.25, 1517, 1517.5, 1522, 1522.1, 1527, 1527.1, 1527.2, 1527.4, 1527.5, 1558, 1562.02, 1568.092, 1569.58, and 1596.8897 of the Health and Safety Code, to amend Section 11172 of the Penal Code, and to amend Sections 366.3, 11405, 11461, 11462, 11463, 16519.5, 16519.58, 18360.05, and 18360.15 of, and to add Sections 727.05, 16501.95, and 18360.20 to, the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to foster care. [ Approved by Governor October 12, 2019. Filed with Secretary of State October 12, 2019. ] LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 819, Mark Stone. Foster care.(1) Existing law, commonly known as Continuum of Care Reform (CCR), states the intent of the Legislature to improve Californias child welfare system and its outcomes by increasing the use of home-based family care and creating faster paths to permanency resulting in shorter durations of involvement in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems, among other things.Existing law, as part of the CCR, requires the State Department of Social Services to implement a resource family approval process, and directs counties and foster family agencies, commencing January 1, 2017, to approve resource families in lieu of licensing and certifying foster homes. Existing law defines a resource family as an individual or family that has successfully met both home environment assessment standards and permanency assessment criteria. Existing law requires the department to review resource family approval standards, including case file documentation. Existing law requires foster family agencies to prepare a written report on an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes, and requires counties and foster family agencies, when a resource family seeks approval by a subsequent foster family agency or transfer of their approval to a county, to request or provide the above-specified written report, including any updates to the report.This bill would require counties and foster family agencies, when a resource family seeks approval by a subsequent foster family agency or transfer of their approval to a county, to request or provide documents in the resource family file maintained by a county or the resource family case record maintained by a foster family agency, including any updates to the file or record. By imposing additional duties on counties, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(2) Existing law requires the department to license and regulate various facilities, including community care facilities, residential care facilities for persons with chronic, life-threatening illness, child daycare centers, family childcare homes, and licensed foster family homes or certified family homes, and generally makes violations of these requirements a crime. Existing law requires the department to secure from an appropriate law enforcement agency a criminal record to determine whether an applicant or specified persons have been convicted of a crime, and prohibits the department from approving applicants who have committed specified crimes. Existing law authorizes the department to prohibit a person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of one of the above-specified facilities if they, among other things, have engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either the people of the state or an individual in or receiving services from the facility or have engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of the facility. Existing law generally prohibits an excluded person from working in a facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life if the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order.This bill would state that an excluded person is prohibited from being a resource family. The bill would impose specified criminal background check requirements on individuals who work in a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child. By expanding the requirements on those facilities, the violation of which is a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(3) Existing law authorizes specified caregivers who are not licensed health care professionals to administer subcutaneous injections of medications to a foster child in placement, as prescribed by the childs physician.This bill would additionally authorize a staff member of a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the group home to administer those injections to a foster child in placement.(4) Existing law requires the department to establish rates for short-term residential therapeutic programs and foster family agencies that include an interim rate that is effective January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2019, inclusive, and that becomes inoperative on January 1, 2020.This bill would instead make that interim rate effective January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2020, inclusive, and would make it inoperative on January 1, 2021.(5) Existing law authorizes the department to license, no later than January 1, 2019, and contingent upon an appropriation in the annual Budget Act for these purposes, a short-term residential therapeutic program operating as a childrens crisis residential program, as defined, and requires the department to regulate those programs.This bill would specify distinct program approval requirements for short-term residential treatment programs that serve only children who are experiencing mental health crises and programs that also serve children who are not experiencing mental health crises.(6) Existing law establishes the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund within the State Department of Social Services to pay, on behalf of foster family homes, small family homes, and resource families, claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem resulting from occurrences peculiar to the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services.This bill would authorize the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund to make, on or after January 1, 2020, payments on behalf of tribally approved homes.(7) Existing law authorizes a court to make any reasonable orders for the care, supervision, custody, conduct, maintenance, and support of a minor or nonminor, if they are adjudged a ward of the court. Existing law, in conformity with federal law, requires a probation agency to determine the appropriate placement for the ward once the court issues a placement order.This bill would authorize a probation agency to make an emergency placement of a minor with a relative or nonrelative extended family member if the probation agency takes specified action, including conducting an in-home inspection and requiring the relative or nonrelative extended family member to submit an application for approval as a resource family. (8) Existing law, as part of the CCR, updated payment rate structures for foster care programs, and requires the home-based family care rate structure to be implemented as of January 1, 2017. Existing law requires that cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court receive the basic foster care maintenance rate effective and available as of December 31, 2016, instead of the home-based family care rate.This bill would instead require cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court to receive the basic level rate of the home-based family care rate structure.(9) Existing law requires the state, through the department and county welfare departments, to establish and support a public system of statewide child welfare services, and requires the department to implement a single statewide Child Welfare Services Case Management System (CWS/CMS) to administer and evaluate the states child welfare services and foster care programs. Existing federal regulations require a child welfare contributing agency, as defined, to provide specified data from the Comprehensive Child Welfare Information Systems and support bidirectional data exchanges to exchange relevant data amongst various systems.This bill would require the department to determine which entities are a child welfare contributing agency for purposes of the federal regulations, and to develop and issue written directives for child welfare contributing agencies on specified matters, including how to submit data to applicable child welfare case management systems. The bill would require each child welfare contributing agency to provide child welfare services data to the statewide child welfare case management system. To the extent that the reporting requirements increase the workload of county agencies, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(10) Existing law requires the department to develop an intensive services foster care program to serve children with specific needs, including intensive treatment and behavioral needs and specialized health care needs, whose needs for safety, permanency, and well-being require specially trained resource parents and intensive professional and paraprofessional services and supports in order to remain in a home-based setting or to avoid or exit congregate care in a short-term residential therapeutic program, group home, or out-of-state residential center. Existing law prohibits more than 2 foster children from being placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home if one or both of the children has intensive needs. Existing law, notwithstanding that provision, authorizes up to 5 foster children to be placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home in order to accommodate sibling group placement. Existing law requires, prior to the placement of a 2nd or subsequent child in an intensive services foster care resource family home, a foster family agency to provide the county placing agency with a written assessment of risks and compatibility.The bill would instead authorize a county placing agency to approve placements for no more than 3 foster children, 2 of whom may be eligible children, in an intensive services foster care resource family home, and would authorize the county to approve additional placements in compelling circumstances, such as to accommodate a preexisting relationship, if specified requirements are met, including that the needs and services plan of each child placed in the home would ensure timely support and services for that child. The bill would condition these additional placements on the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department. The bill would require the department to adopt regulations to implement the intensive services foster care program, and would authorize the department, until regulations are adopted, to administer the program through the issuance of written directives. The bill would require a foster family agency that intends to operate an intensive services foster care program to provide to the department a description of the program model and how it intends to comply with specified statutory requirements.This bill would also require the department, in consultation with counties and other interested stakeholders, to consider options to expand the number of available resource families who are willing to provide intensive services foster care.(11) If a relative of a dependent child is appointed the legal guardian of the child and the child has been placed with the relative for at least 6 months, existing law requires the court to terminate its dependency jurisdiction and to retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the guardianship, unless the relative guardian objects or upon a finding of exceptional circumstances.This bill would also apply this provision to a nonrelative extended family member. The bill would instead condition the requirement for the court to terminate dependency jurisdiction on the guardians home maintaining resource family approval for at least 6 months.(12) Existing law, the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act, requires a mandated reporter, as defined, to report whenever they, in their professional capacity or within the scope of their employment, have knowledge of or observed a child whom the mandated reporter knows or reasonably suspects has been the victim of child abuse or neglect. Existing law grants civil and criminal immunity to specified individuals, including a mandated reporter, for any report that is required or authorized by the act.This bill would extend civil and criminal immunity to any person who, in good faith, provides information or assistance, in connection with a report, investigation, or legal intervention pursuant to a good faith report of child abuse or neglect under the act.(13) Existing law continuously appropriates funds from the General Fund to defray a portion of the states share of costs under the CalWORKs program, the AFDC-FC program, and for the placement of hard-to-place adoptive children.This bill would provide that the continuous appropriation would not be made for purposes of implementing the bill.(14) This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code proposed by AB 686 to be operative only if this bill and AB 686 are enacted and this bill is enacted last.This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by AB 686 and AB 865 to be operative only if this bill and AB 686, this bill and AB 865, or all 3 bills are enacted and this bill is enacted last.(15) The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES |
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| 1 | + | Enrolled September 13, 2019 Passed IN Senate September 09, 2019 Passed IN Assembly September 10, 2019 Amended IN Senate September 05, 2019 Amended IN Senate August 19, 2019 Amended IN Senate July 01, 2019 Amended IN Senate June 10, 2019 Amended IN Senate May 29, 2019 Amended IN Assembly April 12, 2019 Amended IN Assembly March 28, 2019 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20192020 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 819Introduced by Assembly Member Mark StoneFebruary 20, 2019An act to amend Sections 1506.1, 1507.25, 1517, 1517.5, 1522, 1522.1, 1527, 1527.1, 1527.2, 1527.4, 1527.5, 1558, 1562.02, 1568.092, 1569.58, and 1596.8897 of the Health and Safety Code, to amend Section 11172 of the Penal Code, and to amend Sections 366.3, 11405, 11461, 11462, 11463, 16519.5, 16519.58, 18360.05, and 18360.15 of, and to add Sections 727.05, 16501.95, and 18360.20 to, the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to foster care.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 819, Mark Stone. Foster care.(1) Existing law, commonly known as Continuum of Care Reform (CCR), states the intent of the Legislature to improve Californias child welfare system and its outcomes by increasing the use of home-based family care and creating faster paths to permanency resulting in shorter durations of involvement in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems, among other things.Existing law, as part of the CCR, requires the State Department of Social Services to implement a resource family approval process, and directs counties and foster family agencies, commencing January 1, 2017, to approve resource families in lieu of licensing and certifying foster homes. Existing law defines a resource family as an individual or family that has successfully met both home environment assessment standards and permanency assessment criteria. Existing law requires the department to review resource family approval standards, including case file documentation. Existing law requires foster family agencies to prepare a written report on an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes, and requires counties and foster family agencies, when a resource family seeks approval by a subsequent foster family agency or transfer of their approval to a county, to request or provide the above-specified written report, including any updates to the report.This bill would require counties and foster family agencies, when a resource family seeks approval by a subsequent foster family agency or transfer of their approval to a county, to request or provide documents in the resource family file maintained by a county or the resource family case record maintained by a foster family agency, including any updates to the file or record. By imposing additional duties on counties, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(2) Existing law requires the department to license and regulate various facilities, including community care facilities, residential care facilities for persons with chronic, life-threatening illness, child daycare centers, family childcare homes, and licensed foster family homes or certified family homes, and generally makes violations of these requirements a crime. Existing law requires the department to secure from an appropriate law enforcement agency a criminal record to determine whether an applicant or specified persons have been convicted of a crime, and prohibits the department from approving applicants who have committed specified crimes. Existing law authorizes the department to prohibit a person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of one of the above-specified facilities if they, among other things, have engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either the people of the state or an individual in or receiving services from the facility or have engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of the facility. Existing law generally prohibits an excluded person from working in a facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life if the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order.This bill would state that an excluded person is prohibited from being a resource family. The bill would impose specified criminal background check requirements on individuals who work in a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child. By expanding the requirements on those facilities, the violation of which is a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(3) Existing law authorizes specified caregivers who are not licensed health care professionals to administer subcutaneous injections of medications to a foster child in placement, as prescribed by the childs physician.This bill would additionally authorize a staff member of a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the group home to administer those injections to a foster child in placement.(4) Existing law requires the department to establish rates for short-term residential therapeutic programs and foster family agencies that include an interim rate that is effective January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2019, inclusive, and that becomes inoperative on January 1, 2020.This bill would instead make that interim rate effective January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2020, inclusive, and would make it inoperative on January 1, 2021.(5) Existing law authorizes the department to license, no later than January 1, 2019, and contingent upon an appropriation in the annual Budget Act for these purposes, a short-term residential therapeutic program operating as a childrens crisis residential program, as defined, and requires the department to regulate those programs.This bill would specify distinct program approval requirements for short-term residential treatment programs that serve only children who are experiencing mental health crises and programs that also serve children who are not experiencing mental health crises.(6) Existing law establishes the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund within the State Department of Social Services to pay, on behalf of foster family homes, small family homes, and resource families, claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem resulting from occurrences peculiar to the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services.This bill would authorize the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund to make, on or after January 1, 2020, payments on behalf of tribally approved homes.(7) Existing law authorizes a court to make any reasonable orders for the care, supervision, custody, conduct, maintenance, and support of a minor or nonminor, if they are adjudged a ward of the court. Existing law, in conformity with federal law, requires a probation agency to determine the appropriate placement for the ward once the court issues a placement order.This bill would authorize a probation agency to make an emergency placement of a minor with a relative or nonrelative extended family member if the probation agency takes specified action, including conducting an in-home inspection and requiring the relative or nonrelative extended family member to submit an application for approval as a resource family. (8) Existing law, as part of the CCR, updated payment rate structures for foster care programs, and requires the home-based family care rate structure to be implemented as of January 1, 2017. Existing law requires that cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court receive the basic foster care maintenance rate effective and available as of December 31, 2016, instead of the home-based family care rate.This bill would instead require cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court to receive the basic level rate of the home-based family care rate structure.(9) Existing law requires the state, through the department and county welfare departments, to establish and support a public system of statewide child welfare services, and requires the department to implement a single statewide Child Welfare Services Case Management System (CWS/CMS) to administer and evaluate the states child welfare services and foster care programs. Existing federal regulations require a child welfare contributing agency, as defined, to provide specified data from the Comprehensive Child Welfare Information Systems and support bidirectional data exchanges to exchange relevant data amongst various systems.This bill would require the department to determine which entities are a child welfare contributing agency for purposes of the federal regulations, and to develop and issue written directives for child welfare contributing agencies on specified matters, including how to submit data to applicable child welfare case management systems. The bill would require each child welfare contributing agency to provide child welfare services data to the statewide child welfare case management system. To the extent that the reporting requirements increase the workload of county agencies, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(10) Existing law requires the department to develop an intensive services foster care program to serve children with specific needs, including intensive treatment and behavioral needs and specialized health care needs, whose needs for safety, permanency, and well-being require specially trained resource parents and intensive professional and paraprofessional services and supports in order to remain in a home-based setting or to avoid or exit congregate care in a short-term residential therapeutic program, group home, or out-of-state residential center. Existing law prohibits more than 2 foster children from being placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home if one or both of the children has intensive needs. Existing law, notwithstanding that provision, authorizes up to 5 foster children to be placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home in order to accommodate sibling group placement. Existing law requires, prior to the placement of a 2nd or subsequent child in an intensive services foster care resource family home, a foster family agency to provide the county placing agency with a written assessment of risks and compatibility.The bill would instead authorize a county placing agency to approve placements for no more than 3 foster children, 2 of whom may be eligible children, in an intensive services foster care resource family home, and would authorize the county to approve additional placements in compelling circumstances, such as to accommodate a preexisting relationship, if specified requirements are met, including that the needs and services plan of each child placed in the home would ensure timely support and services for that child. The bill would condition these additional placements on the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department. The bill would require the department to adopt regulations to implement the intensive services foster care program, and would authorize the department, until regulations are adopted, to administer the program through the issuance of written directives. The bill would require a foster family agency that intends to operate an intensive services foster care program to provide to the department a description of the program model and how it intends to comply with specified statutory requirements.This bill would also require the department, in consultation with counties and other interested stakeholders, to consider options to expand the number of available resource families who are willing to provide intensive services foster care.(11) If a relative of a dependent child is appointed the legal guardian of the child and the child has been placed with the relative for at least 6 months, existing law requires the court to terminate its dependency jurisdiction and to retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the guardianship, unless the relative guardian objects or upon a finding of exceptional circumstances.This bill would also apply this provision to a nonrelative extended family member. The bill would instead condition the requirement for the court to terminate dependency jurisdiction on the guardians home maintaining resource family approval for at least 6 months.(12) Existing law, the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act, requires a mandated reporter, as defined, to report whenever they, in their professional capacity or within the scope of their employment, have knowledge of or observed a child whom the mandated reporter knows or reasonably suspects has been the victim of child abuse or neglect. Existing law grants civil and criminal immunity to specified individuals, including a mandated reporter, for any report that is required or authorized by the act.This bill would extend civil and criminal immunity to any person who, in good faith, provides information or assistance, in connection with a report, investigation, or legal intervention pursuant to a good faith report of child abuse or neglect under the act.(13) Existing law continuously appropriates funds from the General Fund to defray a portion of the states share of costs under the CalWORKs program, the AFDC-FC program, and for the placement of hard-to-place adoptive children.This bill would provide that the continuous appropriation would not be made for purposes of implementing the bill.(14) This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code proposed by AB 686 to be operative only if this bill and AB 686 are enacted and this bill is enacted last.This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by AB 686 and AB 865 to be operative only if this bill and AB 686, this bill and AB 865, or all 3 bills are enacted and this bill is enacted last.(15) The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 1506.1 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1506.1. (a) A foster family agency shall prepare and maintain a current, written plan of operation as required by the department.(b) (1) A foster family agency shall have national accreditation from an entity identified by the department pursuant to the process described in paragraph (8) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed before January 1, 2017:(A) The foster family agency shall have until December 31, 2018, to obtain accreditation.(B) The foster family agency shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation to the department in a time and manner as determined by the department.(C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status as of January 1, 2018, and July 1, 2018, in a time and manner as determined by the department.(3) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed on or after January 1, 2017:(A) The foster family agency shall have up to 24 months from the date of licensure to obtain accreditation.(B) The foster family agency applicant shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation with its application for licensure.(C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status at 12 months and at 18 months after the date of licensure.(4) This subdivision does not preclude the department from requesting additional information from the foster family agency regarding its accreditation status.(5) The department may revoke a foster family agencys license pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) for failure to obtain accreditation within the timeframes specified in this subdivision.(6) The department may extend the date by which to comply with paragraph (2), as applicable, for up to one year upon the request of a foster family agency that has been vendored as a service provider by a regional center for persons with developmental disabilities. In determining whether to extend the date, the department shall consult with any county placement agency that places children with the foster family agency, the vendorizing regional center, and the State Department of Developmental Services.(c) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agencys plan of operation shall include a program statement. The program statement shall contain a description of all of the following:(1) The core services and supports, as set forth in paragraph (5) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and as prescribed by the department, to be offered to children and their families, as appropriate or as necessary.(2) The treatment practices that will be used in serving children and families.(3) The procedures for the development, implementation, and periodic updating of the needs and services plan for children placed with the foster family agency or served by the foster family agency, consistent with the case plans as developed by the county placing agency, that support the reasonable and prudent parent standard, as defined in Section 362.05 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and procedures for collaborating with the child and family team, as described in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which includes, but is not limited to, a description of the services to be provided to meet the treatment needs of children assessed.(4) (A) How the foster family agency will comply with the resource family approval standards and requirements, as set forth in Section 1517.(B) A foster family agency that chooses not to approve resource families pursuant to Section 1517 shall describe in the program statement the transition plan for its certified family homes to obtain resource family approval prior to December 31, 2019.(5) The population or populations to be served.(6) The ability to support the differing needs of children and their families.(7) The plan for the supervision, evaluation, and training of staff. The training plan shall be appropriate to meet the needs of children, and it shall be consistent with the training provided to resource families as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(8) The ability to provide or arrange for treatment services to meet the individual needs of children placed in certified family homes or with resource families, as specified in Section 11402 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(9) The plan for the training, supervision, and support of resource families to meet the appropriate needs of children, consistent with the training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. To the extent possible, the foster family agency training plan for resource families shall be consistent with the training requirements set forth by the county child welfare placing agency.(10) The agency or agencies that the foster family agency has partnered with, either formally or informally, to provide additional supports and services to families and children during care and postpermanency.(11) The plan for participation in child and family teams and supporting the participation of the agencys resource families in those teams, as appropriate.(12) If the foster family agency plans to operate as an intensive services foster care program, a description of the program model and how the foster family agency will comply with the requirements set forth in Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(13) Any other information that may be prescribed by the department for the proper administration of this section.(d) In addition to the rules and regulations adopted pursuant to this chapter, a county licensed to operate a foster family agency shall describe, in the plan of operation, its conflict-of-interest mitigation plan, on and after January 1, 2017, as set forth in subdivision (g) of Section 11462.02 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(e) (1) (A) (i) A foster family agency applicant shall submit an application to the department that includes a letter of recommendation in support of its program from a county placing agency.(ii) The letter of recommendation shall include a statement that the county placing agency reviewed the applicants program statement.(iii) If the letter of recommendation is not from the county in which the facility is located, the foster family agency applicant shall include with its application a statement that it provided the county in which the facility is located an opportunity for that county to review the program statement and notified that county that the facility has received a letter of recommendation from another county.(B) If the application does not contain a letter of recommendation as described in subparagraph (A), then the department shall cease review of the application. This paragraph does not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of Section 1526 or any other law.(C) A new letter of recommendation is not required when a foster family agency moves locations.(2) A foster family agency shall submit a copy of its program statement to all county placing agencies with which placements are coordinated or for which services are provided, including the county in which the facility is located, for optional review when the foster family agency updates its program statement.(f) The department shall have the authority to inspect a foster family agency pursuant to the system of governmental monitoring and oversight developed by the department on and after January 1, 2017, pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 2. Section 1507.25 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1507.25. (a) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer emergency medical assistance and injections for severe diabetic hypoglycemia and anaphylactic shock to a foster child in placement.(2) The following individuals shall be authorized to administer emergency medical assistance and injections in accordance with this subdivision:(A) A relative caregiver.(B) A nonrelative extended family member.(C) A foster family home parent.(D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(E) A small family home parent.(F) A certified parent of a foster family agency.(G) A designated substitute caregiver of a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family.(H) A staff member of a small family home or a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the small family home or group home.(I) A staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(J) A staff member of a transitional shelter care facility or a temporary shelter care facility who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate.(b) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer subcutaneous injections of other medications, including insulin, as prescribed by the childs physician, to a foster child in placement.(2) The following individuals shall be authorized to give prescribed injections, including insulin, in accordance with this subdivision:(A) A relative caregiver.(B) A nonrelative extended family member.(C) A foster family home parent.(D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(E) A small family home parent.(F) A certified parent of a foster family agency.(G) In the absence of a foster parent, a designated substitute caregiver in a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family.(H) A staff member of a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the group home.(I) A direct care staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate.(c) For purposes of this section, administration of an insulin injection shall include all necessary supportive activities related to the preparation and administration of the injection, including glucose testing and monitoring.(d) Notwithstanding Part 5.5 (commencing with Section 17700) of Division 9 of, and particularly subdivision (g) of Section 17710 of, the Welfare and Institutions Code, a childs need to receive injections pursuant to this section shall not be the sole basis for determining that the child has a medical condition requiring specialized in-home health care.(e) This section does not supersede the requirements of Section 369.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, with respect to the administration of psychotropic medication to a dependent child of the court.SEC. 3. Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years.(B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code.(C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law.(D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed.(b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with the provisions of this section.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department.(B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(D) Taking the following actions, as applicable:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month.(F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78.(ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(H) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement.(c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved.(2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department.(3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency.(4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate.(5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety.(6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action.(d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided.(2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family.(A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing.(B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551.(ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing.(C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits.(D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550.(e) Neither this section nor Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter.(3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes:(A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph:(A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section.(h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 3.5. Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the foster family agency shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may provide guidance to foster family agencies regarding consistent implementation of this clause through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations, until regulations are adopted.(5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years.(B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code.(C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law.(D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed.(b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with this section.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department.(B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(D) Taking the following actions, as applicable:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month.(F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78.(ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(H) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement.(c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved.(2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department.(3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency.(4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate.(5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety.(6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action.(d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided.(2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family.(A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing.(B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551.(ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing.(C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits.(D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550.(e) This section and Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code do not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter.(3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes:(A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph:(A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section.(h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 4. Section 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1517.5. (a) A resource family currently approved by a foster family agency pursuant to this section or Section 1517 may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete the following activities:(A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency.(B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code.(C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2.(C) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family from the current foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the current foster family agency.(ii) The current foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family to the subsequent foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(b) A resource family currently approved by a county pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency.(B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code.(C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2.(C) Complete an approval update for the resource family, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the county.(ii) The county shall forward a copy of the written report and any updates to the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(c) Resource family approval by a current foster family agency or a county shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family by a subsequent foster family agency in accordance with this section.(d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Current foster family agency means a foster family agency by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to this section or Section 1517.(2) Subsequent foster family agency means a foster family agency to which a resource family has submitted an application for resource family approval pursuant to this section.(3) County means a county child welfare or probation department by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 5. Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1522. The Legislature recognizes the need to generate timely and accurate positive fingerprint identification of applicants as a condition of issuing licenses, permits, or certificates of approval for persons to operate or provide direct care services in a community care facility, foster family home, or a certified family home or resource family of a licensed foster family agency. Therefore, the Legislature supports the use of the fingerprint live-scan technology, as identified in the long-range plan of the Department of Justice for fully automating the processing of fingerprints and other data by the year 1999, otherwise known as the California Crime Information Intelligence System (CAL-CII), to be used for applicant fingerprints. It is the intent of the Legislature in enacting this section to require the fingerprints of those individuals whose contact with community care clients may pose a risk to the clients health and safety. An individual shall be required to obtain either a criminal record clearance or a criminal record exemption from the State Department of Social Services before the individuals initial presence in a community care facility or certified family home.(a) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or special permit to a person to operate or manage a community care facility, the State Department of Social Services shall secure from an appropriate law enforcement agency a criminal record to determine whether the applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5 of the Penal Code, subdivision (b) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons, and subsequent arrest information pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(3) The following shall apply to the criminal record information:(A) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial.(C) If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the applicant and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact.(D) If the State Department of Social Services finds, after licensure, that the licensee, or any other person specified in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license may be revoked, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(E) An applicant and any other person specified in subdivision (b) shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice for the purpose of searching the criminal records of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in addition to the criminal records search required by this subdivision. If an applicant and all other persons described in subdivision (b) meet all of the conditions for licensure, except receipt of the Federal Bureau of Investigations criminal offender record information search response for the applicant or any of the persons described in subdivision (b), the department may issue a license if the applicant and each person described in subdivision (b) has signed and submitted a statement that the person has never been convicted of a crime in the United States, other than a traffic infraction, as prescribed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 42001 of the Vehicle Code. If, after licensure, or the issuance of a certificate of approval of a certified family home by a foster family agency, the department determines that the licensee or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has a criminal record, the department may revoke the license, or require a foster family agency to revoke the certificate of approval, pursuant to Section 1550. The department may also suspend the license or require a foster family agency to suspend the certificate of approval pending an administrative hearing pursuant to Section 1550.5.(F) The State Department of Social Services shall develop procedures to provide the individuals state and federal criminal history information with the written notification of the individuals exemption denial or revocation based on the criminal record. Receipt of the criminal history information shall be optional on the part of the individual, as set forth in the agencys procedures. The procedure shall protect the confidentiality and privacy of the individuals record, and the criminal history information shall not be made available to the employer.(G) Notwithstanding any other law, the department is authorized to provide an individual with a copy of the individuals state or federal level criminal offender record information search response as provided to that department by the Department of Justice if the department has denied a criminal background clearance based on this information and the individual makes a written request to the department for a copy specifying an address to which it is to be sent. The state or federal level criminal offender record information search response shall not be modified or altered from its form or content as provided by the Department of Justice and shall be provided to the address specified by the individual in the individuals written request. The department shall retain a copy of the individuals written request and the response and date provided.(b) (1) In addition to the applicant, this section shall be applicable to criminal record clearances and exemptions for the following persons:(A) Adults responsible for administration or direct supervision of staff.(B) Any adult, other than a client, residing in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home.(C) Any person who provides client assistance in dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene. Any nurse assistant or home health aide meeting the requirements of Section 1338.5 or 1736.6, respectively, who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee, and who has been certified or recertified on or after July 1, 1998, shall be deemed to meet the criminal record clearance requirements of this section. A certified nurse assistant and certified home health aide who will be providing client assistance and who falls under this exemption shall provide one copy of their current certification, prior to providing care, to the community care facility. The facility shall maintain the copy of the certification on file as long as care is being provided by the certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide at the facility or in a certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency. This paragraph does not restrict the right of the department to exclude a certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide from a licensed community care facility or certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1558.(D) Any staff person, volunteer, or employee who has contact with the clients.(E) Any adult who works in a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child.(F) If the applicant is a firm, partnership, association, or corporation, the chief executive officer or other person serving in like capacity.(G) Additional officers of the governing body of the applicant, or other persons with a financial interest in the applicant, as determined necessary by the department by regulation. The criteria used in the development of these regulations shall be based on the persons capability to exercise substantial influence over the operation of the facility.(2) The following persons are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) A medical professional, as defined in department regulations, who holds a valid license or certification from the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity and who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee if all of the following apply:(i) The criminal record of the person has been cleared as a condition of licensure or certification by the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity.(ii) The person is providing time-limited specialized clinical care or services.(iii) The person is providing care or services within the persons scope of practice.(iv) The person is not a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility.(B) A third-party repair person or similar retained contractor if all of the following apply:(i) The person is hired for a defined, time-limited job.(ii) The person is not left alone with clients.(iii) When clients are present in the room in which the repair person or contractor is working, a staff person who has a criminal record clearance or exemption is also present.(C) Employees of a licensed home health agency and other members of licensed hospice interdisciplinary teams who have a contract with a client or resident of the facility, certified family home, or resource family home and are in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home at the request of that client or residents legal decisionmaker. The exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility.(D) Clergy and other spiritual caregivers who are performing services in common areas of the community care facility, certified family home, or resource family home or who are advising an individual client at the request of, or with the permission of, the client or legal decisionmaker, are exempt from fingerprint and criminal background check requirements imposed by community care licensing. This exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care licensee or employee of the facility.(E) Members of fraternal, service, or similar organizations who conduct group activities for clients if all of the following apply:(i) Members are not left alone with clients.(ii) Members do not transport clients off the facility, certified family home, or resource family home premises.(iii) The same organization does not conduct group activities for clients more often than defined by the departments regulations.(3) In addition to the exemptions in paragraph (2), the following persons in foster family homes, resource family homes, certified family homes, and small family homes are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) Adult friends and family of the foster parent, who come into the home to visit for a length of time no longer than defined by the department in regulations, provided that the adult friends and family of the foster parent are not left alone with the foster children. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 362.04 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, may allow adult friends and family to provide short-term care to the foster child and act as an appropriate occasional short-term babysitter for the child.(B) Parents of a foster childs friend when the foster child is visiting the friends home and the friend, foster parent, or both are also present. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, may allow the parent of the foster childs friend to act as an appropriate, occasional short-term babysitter for the child without the friend being present.(C) Individuals who are engaged by a foster parent to provide short-term care to the child for periods not to exceed 24 hours. Caregivers shall use a reasonable and prudent parent standard in selecting appropriate individuals to act as appropriate occasional short-term babysitters.(4) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult day care and adult day support centers are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) Unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and service plan, a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to the client.(B) A volunteer if all of the following apply:(i) The volunteer is supervised by the licensee or a facility employee with a criminal record clearance or exemption.(ii) The volunteer is never left alone with clients.(iii) The volunteer does not provide any client assistance with dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene other than washing of hands.(5) (A) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult residential and social rehabilitation facilities, unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and services plan, are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1): a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to that client.(B) This subdivision does not prevent a licensee from requiring a criminal record clearance of any individual exempt from the requirements of this section, provided that the individual has client contact.(6) Any person similar to those described in this subdivision, as defined by the department in regulations.(c) (1) Subsequent to initial licensure, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempted from fingerprinting shall obtain either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) from the State Department of Social Services prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the facility. A person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall be fingerprinted and shall sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions. The licensee shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). These fingerprint images and related information shall be sent by electronic transmission in a manner approved by the State Department of Social Services and the Department of Justice for the purpose of obtaining a permanent set of fingerprints, and shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the licensee. A licensees failure to prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in the citation of a deficiency and the immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images and related information shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed stamped postcard for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints.(2) Within 14 calendar days of the receipt of the fingerprint images, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services of the criminal record information, as provided in subdivision (a). If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the licensee and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact within 14 calendar days of receipt of the fingerprint images. Documentation of the individuals clearance or exemption from disqualification shall be maintained by the licensee and be available for inspection. If new fingerprint images are required for processing, the Department of Justice shall, within 14 calendar days from the date of receipt of the fingerprints, notify the licensee that the fingerprints were illegible, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services, as required by Section 1522.04, and shall also notify the licensee by mail, within 14 days of electronic transmission of the fingerprints to the Department of Justice, if the person has no criminal history recorded. A violation of the regulations adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548.(3) Except for persons specified in subdivision (b) who are exempt from fingerprinting, the licensee shall endeavor to ascertain the previous employment history of persons required to be fingerprinted. If it is determined by the State Department of Social Services, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the State Department of Social Services shall notify the licensee to act immediately to terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility. The State Department of Social Services may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, except a minor traffic violation, the licensee shall, upon notification by the State Department of Social Services, act immediately to either (A) terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility; or (B) seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the facility until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered. A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by this paragraph shall result in a citation of deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(4) The department may issue an exemption from disqualification on its own motion pursuant to subdivision (g) if the persons criminal history indicates that the person is of good character based on the age, seriousness, and frequency of the conviction or convictions. The department, in consultation with interested parties, shall develop regulations to establish the criteria to grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to this paragraph.(5) Concurrently with notifying the licensee pursuant to paragraph (3), the department shall notify the affected individual of the right to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The individual may seek an exemption from disqualification only if the licensee terminates the persons employment or removes the person from the facility after receiving notice from the department pursuant to paragraph (3).(d) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or certificate of approval to any person or persons to operate a foster family home, certified family home as described in Section 1506, or resource family pursuant to Section 1517 of this code or Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall secure California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal history information to determine whether the applicant or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting has ever been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in subdivision (c) of Section 290 of the Penal Code, for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, subdivision (b) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall not issue a license or certificate of approval to any foster family home, certified family home, or resource family applicant who has not obtained both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g).(2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons.(3) Neither the Department of Justice nor the State Department of Social Services may charge a fee for the fingerprinting of an applicant for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval described in this subdivision. The record, if any, shall be taken into consideration when evaluating a prospective applicant.(4) The following shall apply to the criminal record information:(A) If the applicant or other persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting have convictions that would make the applicants home unfit as a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family, the license, special permit, certificate of approval, or presence shall be denied.(B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial.(C) For purposes of this subdivision, a criminal record clearance provided under Section 8712 of the Family Code may be used by the department or other approving authority.(D) To the same extent required for federal funding, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall submit a set of fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, in addition to the criminal records search required by subdivision (a).(5) Any person specified in this subdivision shall, as a part of the application, be fingerprinted and sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions or arrests for any crime against a child, spousal or cohabitant abuse, or any crime for which the department cannot grant an exemption if the person was convicted and shall submit these fingerprints to the licensing agency or other approving authority.(6) (A) Subsequent to initial licensure, certification, or approval, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall obtain both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance, or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the foster family home, certified family home, or resource family home. A foster family home licensee or foster family agency shall submit fingerprint images and related information of persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). A foster family home licensees or a foster family agencys failure to either prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in a citation of a deficiency, and the immediate civil penalties of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. A violation of the regulation adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550. The State Department of Social Services may assess penalties for continued violations, as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing.(B) Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints. Within five working days of the receipt of the criminal record or information regarding criminal convictions from the Department of Justice, the department shall notify the applicant of any criminal arrests or convictions. If no arrests or convictions are recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency with a statement of that fact concurrent with providing the information to the State Department of Social Services.(7) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application or presence shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g).(8) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds, after licensure or the granting of the certificate of approval, that the licensee, certified foster parent, resource family, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license or certificate of approval may be revoked or rescinded by the department or the foster family agency, whichever is applicable, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(e) (1) The State Department of Social Services shall not use a record of arrest to deny, revoke, rescind, or terminate any application, license, certificate of approval, employment, or residence unless the department investigates the incident and secures evidence, whether or not related to the incident of arrest, that is admissible in an administrative hearing to establish conduct by the person that may pose a risk to the health and safety of any person who is or may become a client.(2) The department shall not issue a criminal record clearance to a person who has been arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, or subdivision (b) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to the completion of an investigation pursuant to paragraph (1).(3) The State Department of Social Services is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties to inspect, license, and investigate community care facilities and individuals associated with a community care facility.(f) (1) For purposes of this chapter, a conviction means a plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere. Any action that the State Department of Social Services is permitted to take following the establishment of a conviction may be taken when the time for appeal has elapsed, when the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal, or when an order granting probation is made suspending the imposition of sentence, notwithstanding a subsequent order pursuant to Sections 1203.4 and 1203.4a of the Penal Code permitting the person to withdraw a plea of guilty and to enter a plea of not guilty, or setting aside the verdict of guilty, or dismissing the accusation, information, or indictment. For purposes of this chapter, the record of a conviction, or a copy thereof certified by the clerk of the court or by a judge of the court in which the conviction occurred, shall be conclusive evidence of the conviction. For purposes of this chapter, the arrest disposition report certified by the Department of Justice, or documents admissible in a criminal action pursuant to Section 969b of the Penal Code, shall be prima facie evidence of the conviction, notwithstanding any other law prohibiting the admission of these documents in a civil or administrative action.(2) For purposes of this chapter, the department shall consider criminal convictions from another state or federal court as if the criminal offense was committed in this state.(g) (1) Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision with respect to a foster care provider applicant, including a relative caregiver, nonrelative extended family member, or resource family, after review of the record, the department may grant an exemption from disqualification for a license or special permit as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a), or for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval as specified in paragraphs (4), (7), and (8) of subdivision (d), or for employment, residence, or presence in a community care facility as specified in paragraphs (3), (4), and (5) of subdivision (c), if the department has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant and the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, are of good character as to justify issuance of the license or special permit or granting an exemption for purposes of subdivision (c). Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision, an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision if the conviction was for any of the following offenses:(A) (i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the department may grant an exemption regarding the conviction for an offense described in paragraph (1), (2), (7), or (8) of subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code, if the employee or prospective employee has been rehabilitated as provided in Section 4852.03 of the Penal Code, has maintained the conduct required in Section 4852.05 of the Penal Code for at least 10 years, and has the recommendation of the district attorney representing the employees county of residence, or if the employee or prospective employee has received a certificate of rehabilitation pursuant to Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 4852.01) of Title 6 of Part 3 of the Penal Code.(B) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code.(C) (i) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (A), an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any applicant for licensure of a community care facility eligible to accept placement of a dependent child if either that applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is associated with the facility has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses:(I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subclause, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A) or subparagraph (B).(II) A felony conviction for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense that occurred within the last five years.(ii) This subparagraph shall be operative to the extent that compliance with these provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.).(2) (A) For a foster care provider applicant, a resource family applicant, or a prospective respite care provider, as described in Section 16501.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, an exemption shall not be granted if that applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, has a conviction for any of the following offenses:(i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code.(ii) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code.(iii) Under no circumstances shall an exemption be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any foster care provider applicant if that applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) in those homes, has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses:(I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subparagraph, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A), or clause (ii) of this subparagraph.(II) A felony conviction, within the last five years, for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense.(III) This clause shall not apply to licenses or approvals wherein a caregiver was granted an exemption to a criminal conviction described in clause (i) prior to the enactment of this clause.(IV) This clause shall remain operative only to the extent that compliance with its provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.).(B) The department or other approving entity may grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider, resource family applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, if the department or other approving entity has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption and the conviction is for one of the following offenses:(i) (I) Any misdemeanor conviction within the last five years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A).(II) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a misdemeanor conviction for statutory rape, as defined in Section 261.5 of the Penal Code, a misdemeanor conviction for indecent exposure, as defined in Section 314 of the Penal Code, or a misdemeanor conviction for financial abuse against an elder, as defined in Section 368 of the Penal Code, shall be eligible for the consideration of an exemption as set forth in subparagraph (C).(ii) Any felony conviction within the last seven years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A).(C) When granting an exemption for a crime listed in subparagraph (B), the department or other approving entity shall consider all reasonably available information, including, but not limited to, the following:(i) The nature of the crime or crimes.(ii) The period of time since the crime was committed.(iii) The number of offenses.(iv) Circumstances surrounding the commission of the crime indicating the likelihood of future criminal activity.(v) Activities since conviction, including employment, participation in therapy, education, or treatment.(vi) Whether the person convicted has successfully completed probation or parole, obtained a certificate of rehabilitation, or been granted a pardon by the Governor.(vii) Any character references or other evidence submitted by the applicant.(viii) Whether the person convicted demonstrated honesty and truthfulness concerning the crime or crimes during the application and approval process and made reasonable efforts to assist the department in obtaining records and documents concerning the crime or crimes.(D) (i) The department or other approving entity shall grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider applicant, resource family applicant, or any person subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, who has been convicted of an offense not listed in subparagraph (A) or (B), if the individuals state and federal criminal history information received from the Department of Justice independently supports a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption.(ii) Notwithstanding the fact that an individual meets the criteria described in clause (i), the department or other approving entity, at its discretion, as necessary to protect the health and safety of a child, may evaluate a person described in clause (i), for purposes of making an exemption decision, pursuant to the criteria described in subparagraphs (B) and (C).(E) This paragraph shall not apply to licenses or approvals for which a caregiver was granted an exemption for a criminal conviction prior to January 1, 2018.(3) The department shall not prohibit a person from being employed or having contact with clients in a facility, certified family home, or resource family home on the basis of a denied criminal record exemption request or arrest information unless the department complies with the requirements of Section 1558 of this code or Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, as applicable.(h) (1) For purposes of compliance with this section, the department may permit an individual to transfer a current criminal record clearance, as defined in subdivision (a), from one facility to another, as long as the criminal record clearance has been processed through a state licensing district office, and is being transferred to another facility licensed by a state licensing district office. The request shall be in writing to the State Department of Social Services, and shall include a copy of the persons drivers license or valid identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, or a valid photo identification issued by another state or the United States government if the person is not a California resident. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the State Department of Social Services shall verify whether the individual has a clearance that can be transferred.(2) The State Department of Social Services shall hold criminal record clearances in its active files for a minimum of three years after an employee is no longer employed at a licensed facility in order for the criminal record clearance to be transferred.(3) A criminal record clearance or exemption processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority shall be accepted by the department or county upon notification of transfer.(4) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 concerning an individual whose criminal record clearance was originally processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, all of the following shall apply:(A) The Department of Justice shall process a request from the department or a county to receive the notice only if all of the following conditions are met:(i) The request shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the agency to be substituted to receive the notification.(ii) The request shall be for the same applicant type as the type for which the original clearance was obtained.(iii) The request shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(B) (i) On or before January 7, 2005, the department shall notify the Department of Justice of all county offices that have department-delegated licensing authority.(ii) The department shall notify the Department of Justice within 15 calendar days of the date on which a new county office receives department-delegated licensing authority or a countys delegated licensing authority is rescinded.(C) The Department of Justice shall charge the department, a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, or a county child welfare agency with criminal record clearance and exemption authority, a fee for each time a request to substitute the recipient agency is received for purposes of this paragraph. This fee shall not exceed the cost of providing the service.(i) The full criminal record obtained for purposes of this section may be used by the department or by a licensed adoption agency as a clearance required for adoption purposes.(j) If a licensee or facility is required by law to deny employment or to terminate employment of any employee based on written notification from the department that the employee has a prior criminal conviction or is determined unsuitable for employment under Section 1558, the licensee or facility shall not incur civil liability or unemployment insurance liability as a result of that denial or termination.(k) The State Department of Social Services may charge a reasonable fee for the costs of processing electronic fingerprint images and related information.SEC. 6. Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1522.1. (a) Prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any individual to care for or reside with children, the department shall check the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 11170 of the Penal Code. The Department of Justice shall maintain and continually update an index of reports of child abuse by providers and shall inform the department of subsequent reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 11170 of the Penal Code and the criminal history. The department shall investigate any reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index. The investigation shall include, but not be limited to, the review of the investigation report and file prepared by the child protective agency which investigated the child abuse report. Licensure or approval shall not be denied based upon a report from the Child Abuse Central Index unless child abuse or severe neglect is substantiated.(b) For any application received on or after January 1, 2008, if any prospective foster parent, or adoptive parent, or any person 18 years of age or older residing in their household, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the licensing agency or licensed adoption agency shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a). The department, in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California, shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect.(c) If any person in the household is 18 years of age or older and has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department or its designated representative shall check the other states child abuse and neglect registry to the same extent required for federal funding, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a), prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any foster family home, certified family home, resource family, or person for whom an adoption home study is conducted or who has filed to adopt.(d) If any licensee of a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child or any associated individual, as described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 1522, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to the Child Abuse Central Index as specified in subdivision (a). The department shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect.SEC. 7. Section 1527 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527. As used in this article:(a) Aircraft includes, but is not limited to, any airplane, glider, or hot air balloon.(b) Bodily injury means any bodily injury, sickness, or disease sustained by any person including death at any time resulting therefrom.(c) Foster child means a person under 19 years of age who has been placed in the care and supervision of licensed foster parents or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(d) (1) Foster parent means the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child in a licensed foster family home or licensed small family home, as defined in Section 1502, or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) On or after January 1, 2020, foster parent shall also mean the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child placed in a tribally approved home by a county child welfare agency, county probation agency, or an Indian tribe that has entered into an agreement pursuant to Section 10553.1 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(e) Occurrence means an accident, including continuous or repeated exposure to conditions, which results in bodily injury or personal injury neither expected nor intended by the foster parent. Multiple incidents of a general course of conduct shall be considered one occurrence, regardless of the period of time during which the acts transpired.(f) Motor vehicle means an automobile, motorcycle, moped, midget automobile, including the type commonly referred to as a kart, go-kart, speedmobile, or by a comparable name whether commercially built or otherwise, trailer or semitrailer designed for travel on public roads, including any machinery or apparatus attached thereto, or snowmobile.(g) Personal injury means any injury to the feelings or reputation of any person or organization arising out of libel, slander, defamation, or disparagement, wrongful eviction, or entry.(h) Property damage means any physical injury to, or destruction of, tangible property, including the loss of use thereof at any time resulting therefrom.(i) Watercraft includes, but is not limited to, any boat, ship, raft, or canoe, whether motorized or not.SEC. 8. Section 1527.1 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.1. There is hereby established the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund within the State Department of Social Services. The fund shall consist of all moneys appropriated by the Legislature. The department may contract with another state agency to set up and operate the fund and perform other administrative functions that may be necessary to carry out the intentions of this article. The purpose of the fund is to pay, on behalf of foster family homes and small family homes, as defined in Section 1502, on or after January 1, 2019, resource families, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem resulting from occurrences peculiar to the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services. The fund may sue and be sued.SEC. 9. Section 1527.2 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.2. The fund, subject to this article, shall pay, on behalf of foster family homes, small family homes, on and after January 1, 2019, resource families, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, any claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem for damages arising from, and peculiar to, the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services, or shall reimburse foster family homes, small family homes, and resource families for those damages.SEC. 10. Section 1527.4 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.4. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, the fund shall not be liable for damages in excess of three hundred thousand dollars ($300,000) for any single foster family home, small family home, on and after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, for all claims arising due to one or more occurrences during any consecutive 12-month period. The fund shall be liable only once for damages arising from one occurrence.SEC. 11. Section 1527.5 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.5. The fund shall be liable, if a claim is approved, to pay on behalf of each licensed foster family home, small family home, on or after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved home, all sums which the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home is obligated to pay as a result of a valid claim of bodily injury or personal injury arising out of the activities of a foster parent or foster parents, which occurs while the foster child resides in the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home. Claims specified in this section of a foster child or a parent, guardian, or guardian ad litem of a foster child shall be the sole responsibility of the fund.SEC. 12. Section 1558 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1558. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility or certified family home, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility or certified family home by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either the people of this state or an individual in, or receiving services from, the facility or certified family home.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility or certified family home, when that person has been convicted of a crime, as defined in Section 1522.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee or certified family home.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility or certified family home, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services.(b) The excluded person, the facility or certified family home, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do both of the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code by the excluded person to conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility or certified family home shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the director has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the director fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility or certified family home, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility or certified family home.(g) A licensees or certified family homes failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) Notwithstanding paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) or subdivision (c) of Section 1550, the department shall take reasonable action, including, but not limited to, prohibiting a person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee of a licensed facility or certified family home, or denying an application for, or suspending or revoking, a license, special permit, certificate of approval, or administrator certificate, issued under this chapter, or denying a transfer of a license pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 1524, upon a finding of a violation of subdivision (i) of Section 11166 of the Penal Code.(j) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 13. Section 1562.02 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1562.02. (a) The department may license a short-term residential therapeutic program operating as a childrens crisis residential program pursuant to this chapter. A childrens crisis residential program shall meet all of the following requirements:(1) If the program serves both children who are not experiencing mental health crises and children who are experiencing mental health crises, the program shall have an identifiable and physically separate unit for those children who are experiencing mental health crises. The separate unit shall be indicated on the short-term residential therapeutic programs license.(2) If the short-term residential therapeutic program operates on a single site both a program that serves children who are not experiencing mental health crises and a separate program that only serves children experiencing mental health crises, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, both of which are issued by the State Department of Health Care Services, or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval.(3) If the short-term residential therapeutic program serves only children experiencing a mental health crisis, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which is issued by the State Department of Health Care Services or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval.(4) Comply with all applicable licensing standards for a short-term residential therapeutic program, unless the department specifies otherwise in regulations that comply with applicable statutory requirements related to licensure.(b) Contingent upon an appropriation in the annual Budget Act for these purposes, the department shall begin implementation of this section no later than July 1, 2018, and shall commence the licensing process for childrens crisis residential programs no later than January 1, 2019.SEC. 14. Section 1568.092 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1568.092. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, aided, or permitted the violation by any other person of this chapter or of any rules or regulations adopted under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, welfare, or safety of either an individual, in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1568.09.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the action of the department and of the right to an appeal of the excluded person. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the action of the department shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of an executive director, a board member, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1568.082.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 15. Section 1569.58 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1569.58. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a licensee, owning a beneficial ownership interest of 10 percent or more in a licensed facility, or being an administrator, officer, director, member, or manager of a licensee or entity controlling a licensee, and may further prohibit any licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client and who has done any of the following:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1569.17.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1569.50.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 16. Section 1596.8897 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1596.8897. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1596.871.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the employee or prospective employee pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, the executive director, or an officer of a licensee prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1596.885 or 1596.886.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 17. Section 11172 of the Penal Code is amended to read:11172. (a) No mandated reporter shall be civilly or criminally liable for any report required or authorized by this article, and this immunity shall apply even if the mandated reporter acquired the knowledge or reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect outside of their professional capacity or outside the scope of their employment. Any other person reporting a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of any report authorized by this article unless it can be proven that a false report was made and the person knew that the report was false or was made with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report, and any person who makes a report of child abuse or neglect known to be false or with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report is liable for any damages caused. No person required to make a report pursuant to this article, nor any person taking photographs at their direction, shall incur any civil or criminal liability for taking photographs of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, or causing photographs to be taken of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, without parental consent, or for disseminating the photographs, images, or material with the reports required by this article. However, this section shall not be construed to grant immunity from this liability with respect to any other use of the photographs.(b) Any person, who, pursuant to a request from a government agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the requesting agency with access to the victim of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that access.(c) Any commercial computer technician, and any employer of any commercial computer technician, who, pursuant to a warrant from a law enforcement agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the law enforcement agency with a computer or computer component which contains possible evidence of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that computer or computer component to the law enforcement agency.(d) Any person who, in good faith, provides information or assistance, including medical evaluations or consultations, to an agency specified in Section 11165.9, in connection with a report, investigation, or legal intervention pursuant to a good faith report of child abuse or neglect under this article, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that information or assistance. This subdivision does not grant immunity from liability for an individual who is suspected of committing abuse or neglect of the child who is the subject of the report.(e) (1) The Legislature finds that even though it has provided immunity from liability to persons required or authorized to make reports pursuant to this article, that immunity does not eliminate the possibility that actions may be brought against those persons based upon required or authorized reports. In order to further limit the financial hardship that those persons may incur as a result of fulfilling their legal responsibilities, it is necessary that they not be unfairly burdened by legal fees incurred in defending those actions. Therefore, a mandated reporter may present a claim to the Department of General Services for reasonable attorneys fees and costs incurred in any action against that person on the basis of making a report required or authorized by this article if the court has dismissed the action upon a demurrer or motion for summary judgment made by that person, or if they prevail in the action. The Department of General Services shall allow that claim if the requirements of this subdivision are met, and the claim shall be paid from an appropriation to be made for that purpose. Attorneys fees awarded pursuant to this section shall not exceed an hourly rate greater than the rate charged by the Attorney General of the State of California at the time the award is made and shall not exceed an aggregate amount of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000).(2) This subdivision shall not apply if a public entity has provided for the defense of the action pursuant to Section 995 of the Government Code.(f) A court may award attorneys fees and costs to a commercial film and photographic print processor when a suit is brought against the processor because of a disclosure mandated by this article and the court finds this suit to be frivolous.SEC. 18. Section 366.3 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:366.3. (a) (1) If a juvenile court orders a permanent plan of adoption, tribal customary adoption, adoption of a nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31, or legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, the court shall retain jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent until the child or nonminor dependent is adopted or the legal guardianship is established, except as provided for in Section 366.29 or, on and after January 1, 2012, Section 366.32. The status of the child or nonminor dependent shall be reviewed every six months to ensure that the adoption or legal guardianship is completed as expeditiously as possible. Following a termination of parental rights, the parent or parents shall not be a party to, or receive notice of, any subsequent proceedings regarding the child.(2) When the adoption of the child or nonminor dependent has been granted, or in the case of a tribal customary adoption, when the tribal customary adoption order has been afforded full faith and credit and the petition for adoption has been granted, the court shall terminate its jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent.(3) Following establishment of a legal guardianship, the court may continue jurisdiction over the child as a dependent child of the juvenile court or may terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the legal guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4. If, however, a relative or nonrelative extended family member of the child is appointed the legal guardian of the child and the guardians home has been approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 for at least six months, the court shall, except if the relative or nonrelative extended family member guardian objects, or upon a finding of exceptional circumstances, terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4.(b) (1) If the court has dismissed dependency jurisdiction following the establishment of a legal guardianship, or no dependency jurisdiction attached because of the granting of a legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360, and the legal guardianship is subsequently revoked or otherwise terminated, the county department of social services or welfare department shall notify the juvenile court of this fact. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child.(2) Notwithstanding Section 1601 of the Probate Code, the proceedings to terminate a legal guardianship that has been granted pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26 shall be held either in the juvenile court that retains jurisdiction over the guardianship as authorized by Section 366.4 or the juvenile court in the county where the guardian and child currently reside, based on the best interests of the child, unless the termination is due to the emancipation or adoption of the child. The juvenile court having jurisdiction over the guardianship shall receive notice from the court in which the petition is filed within five calendar days of the filing. Prior to the hearing on a petition to terminate legal guardianship pursuant to this subdivision, the court shall order the county department of social services or welfare department having jurisdiction or jointly with the county department where the guardian and child currently reside to prepare a report, for the courts consideration, that shall include an evaluation of whether the child could safely remain in, or be returned to, the legal guardians home, without terminating the legal guardianship, if services were provided to the child or legal guardian. If applicable, the report shall also identify recommended family maintenance or reunification services to maintain the legal guardianship and set forth a plan for providing those services. If the petition to terminate legal guardianship is granted, either juvenile court may resume dependency jurisdiction over the child, and may order the county department of social services or welfare department to develop a new permanent plan, which shall be presented to the court within 60 days of the termination. If no dependency jurisdiction has attached, the social worker shall make any investigation the social worker deems necessary to determine whether the child may be within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, as provided in Section 328.(3) Unless the parental rights of the childs parent or parents have been terminated, they shall be notified that the legal guardianship has been revoked or terminated and shall be entitled to participate in the new permanency planning hearing. The court shall try to place the child in another permanent placement. At the hearing, the parents may be considered as custodians but the child shall not be returned to the parent or parents unless they prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that reunification is the best alternative for the child. The court may, if it is in the best interests of the child, order that reunification services again be provided to the parent or parents.(c) If, following the establishment of a legal guardianship, the county welfare department becomes aware of changed circumstances that indicate adoption or, for an Indian child, tribal customary adoption, may be an appropriate plan for the child, the department shall so notify the court. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child and order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26 to determine whether adoption or continued legal guardianship is the most appropriate plan for the child. The hearing shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the order. If the court orders that a hearing shall be held pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services if it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment under subdivision (b) of Section 366.22.(d) If the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent is in a placement other than the home of a legal guardian and jurisdiction has not been dismissed, the status of the child shall be reviewed at least every six months. The review of the status of a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption shall be conducted by the court. The review of the status of a child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent for whom the court has not ordered parental rights terminated and who has not been ordered placed for adoption may be conducted by the court or an appropriate local agency. The court shall conduct the review under the following circumstances:(1) Upon the request of the childs parents or legal guardians.(2) Upon the request of the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent.(3) It has been 12 months since a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 or an order that the child remain in foster care pursuant to Section 366.21, 366.22, 366.25, 366.26, or subdivision (h).(4) It has been 12 months since a review was conducted by the court.The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.(e) Except as provided in subdivision (g), at the review held every six months pursuant to subdivision (d), the reviewing body shall inquire about the progress being made to provide a permanent home for the child, shall consider the safety of the child, and shall determine all of the following:(1) The continuing necessity for, and appropriateness of, the placement.(2) Identification of individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to a child who is 10 years of age or older and has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer, and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The social worker shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer to identify individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to the child, and may ask any other child to provide that information, as appropriate. The social worker shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interests.(3) The continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the permanent plan for the child, including efforts to maintain relationships between a child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer and individuals who are important to the child and efforts to identify a prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange.(4) The extent of the agencys compliance with the child welfare services case plan in making reasonable efforts either to return the child to the safe home of the parent or to complete whatever steps are necessary to finalize the permanent placement of the child. If the reviewing body determines that a second period of reunification services is in the childs best interests, and that there is a significant likelihood of the childs return to a safe home due to changed circumstances of the parent, pursuant to subdivision (f), the specific reunification services required to effect the childs return to a safe home shall be described.(5) Whether there should be any limitation on the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child. That limitation shall be specifically addressed in the court order and may not exceed what is necessary to protect the child. If the court specifically limits the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child, the court shall at the same time appoint a responsible adult to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child pursuant to Section 361.(6) The adequacy of services provided to the child. The court shall consider the progress in providing the information and documents to the child, as described in Section 391. The court shall also consider the need for, and progress in providing, the assistance and services described in Section 391.(7) The extent of progress the parents or legal guardians have made toward alleviating or mitigating the causes necessitating placement in foster care.(8) The likely date by which the child may be returned to, and safely maintained in, the home, placed for adoption, legal guardianship, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or, if the child is 16 years of age or older, and no other permanent plan is appropriate at the time of the hearing, in another planned permanent living arrangement.(9) Whether the child has any siblings under the courts jurisdiction, and, if any siblings exist, all of the following:(A) The nature of the relationship between the child and their siblings.(B) The appropriateness of developing or maintaining the sibling relationships pursuant to Section 16002. At the first review conducted for a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, the court shall inquire into the status of the development of a voluntary postadoption sibling contact agreement pursuant to subdivision (e) of Section 16002.(C) If the siblings are not placed together in the same home, why the siblings are not placed together and what efforts are being made to place the siblings together, or why those efforts are not appropriate.(D) If the siblings are not placed together, all of the following:(i) The frequency and nature of the visits between the siblings.(ii) If there are visits between the siblings, whether the visits are supervised or unsupervised. If the visits are supervised, a discussion of the reasons why the visits are supervised, and what needs to be accomplished in order for the visits to be unsupervised.(iii) If there are visits between the siblings, a description of the location and length of the visits.(iv) Any plan to increase visitation between the siblings.(E) The impact of the sibling relationships on the childs placement and planning for legal permanence.The factors the court may consider as indicators of the nature of the childs sibling relationships include, but are not limited to, whether the siblings were raised together in the same home, whether the siblings have shared significant common experiences or have existing close and strong bonds, whether either sibling expresses a desire to visit or live with their sibling, as applicable, and whether ongoing contact is in the childs best emotional interests.(10) For a child who is 14 years of age or older, and, effective January 1, 2012, for a nonminor dependent, the services needed to assist the child or nonminor dependent to make the transition from foster care to successful adulthood.The reviewing body shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.Each licensed foster family agency shall submit reports for each child in its care, custody, and control to the court concerning the continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the childs permanent plan, the extent of compliance with the case plan, and the type and adequacy of services provided to the child.(f) Unless their parental rights have been permanently terminated, the parent or parents of the child are entitled to receive notice of, and participate in, those hearings. It shall be presumed that continued care is in the best interests of the child, unless the parent or parents prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that further efforts at reunification are the best alternative for the child. In those cases, the court may order that further reunification services to return the child to a safe home environment be provided to the parent or parents up to a period of six months, and family maintenance services, as needed for an additional six months in order to return the child to a safe home environment. On and after January 1, 2012, this subdivision shall not apply to the parents of a nonminor dependent.(g) At the review conducted by the court and held at least every six months, regarding a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child for whom parental rights are not being terminated and a tribal customary adoption is being considered, the county welfare department shall prepare and present to the court a report describing the following:(1) The childs present placement.(2) The childs current physical, mental, emotional, and educational status.(3) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or guardian, identification of individuals, other than the childs siblings, who are important to the child and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The agency shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older to identify any individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interest, and may ask any child who is younger than 10 years of age to provide that information as appropriate. The agency shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child.(4) Whether the child has been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents.(5) Whether an adoptive placement agreement has been signed and filed.(6) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents, the efforts made to identify an appropriate prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange.(7) Whether the final adoption order should include provisions for postadoptive sibling contact pursuant to Section 366.29.(8) The progress of the search for an adoptive placement if one has not been identified.(9) Any impediments to the adoption or the adoptive placement.(10) The anticipated date by which the child will be adopted or placed in an adoptive home.(11) The anticipated date by which an adoptive placement agreement will be signed.(12) Recommendations for court orders that will assist in the placement of the child for adoption or in the finalization of the adoption.The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.The court shall make appropriate orders to protect the stability of the child and to facilitate and expedite the permanent placement and adoption of the child.(h) (1) At the review held pursuant to subdivision (d) for a child in foster care, the court shall consider all permanency planning options for the child including whether the child should be returned to the home of the parent, placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or appointed a legal guardian, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, if compelling reasons exist for finding that none of the foregoing options are in the best interest of the child and the child is 16 years of age or older, whether the child should be placed in another planned permanent living arrangement. The court shall order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26, unless it determines by clear and convincing evidence that there is a compelling reason for determining that a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 is not in the best interest of the child because the child is being returned to the home of the parent, the child is not a proper subject for adoption, or no one is willing to accept legal guardianship as of the hearing date. If the county adoption agency, or the department when it is acting as an adoption agency, has determined it is unlikely that the child will be adopted or one of the conditions described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c) of Section 366.26 applies, that fact shall constitute a compelling reason for purposes of this subdivision. Only upon that determination may the court order that the child remain in foster care, without holding a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26. The court shall make factual findings identifying any barriers to achieving the permanent plan as of the hearing date. On and after January 1, 2012, the nonminor dependents legal status as an adult is in and of itself a compelling reason not to hold a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26.(2) When the child is 16 years of age or older and in another planned permanent living arrangement, the court shall do all of the following:(A) Ask the child about their desired permanency outcome.(B) Make a judicial determination explaining why, as of the hearing date, another planned permanent living arrangement is the best permanency plan for the child.(C) State for the record the compelling reason or reasons why it continues not to be in the best interest of the child to return home, be placed for adoption, be placed for tribal customary adoption in the case of an Indian child, be placed with a legal guardian, or be placed with a fit and willing relative.(3) When the child is 16 years of age or older and is in another planned permanent living arrangement, the social study prepared for the hearing shall include a description of all of the following:(A) The intensive and ongoing efforts to return the child to the home of the parent, place the child for adoption, or establish a legal guardianship, as appropriate.(B) The steps taken to do both of the following:(i) Ensure that the childs care provider is following the reasonable and prudent parent standard.(ii) Determine whether the child has regular, ongoing opportunities to engage in age or developmentally appropriate activities, including consulting with the child about opportunities for the child to participate in those activities.(4) When the child is under 16 years of age and has a permanent plan of return home, adoption, legal guardianship, or placement with a fit and willing relative, the social study shall include a description of any barriers to achieving the permanent plan and the efforts made by the agency to address those barriers.(i) If, as authorized by subdivision (h), the court orders a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services when it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment as provided for in subdivision (i) of Section 366.21 or subdivision (b) of Section 366.22. A hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the 12-month review at which it is ordered, and at that hearing the court shall determine whether adoption, tribal customary adoption, legal guardianship, placement with a fit and willing relative, or, for a child 16 years of age or older, another planned permanent living arrangement is the most appropriate plan for the child. On and after January 1, 2012, a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26 shall not be ordered if the child is a nonminor dependent, unless the nonminor dependent is an Indian child and tribal customary adoption is recommended as the permanent plan. The court may order that a nonminor dependent who otherwise is eligible pursuant to Section 11403 remain in a planned, permanent living arrangement. At the request of the nonminor dependent who has an established relationship with an adult determined to be the nonminor dependents permanent connection, the court may order adoption of the nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31.(j) The reviews conducted pursuant to subdivision (a) or (d) may be conducted earlier than every six months if the court determines that an earlier review is in the best interests of the child or as court rules prescribe.SEC. 19. Section 727.05 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, immediately following Section 727, to read:727.05. (a) Notwithstanding paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 727, the probation agency may make an emergency placement of a minor ordered into its care, custody, and control with a relative or nonrelative extended family member.(b) Prior to making the emergency placement, the probation agency shall do all of the following:(1) Conduct an in-home inspection to assess the safety of the home and the ability of the relative or nonrelative extended family member to care for the minors needs.(2) Ensure that a state-level criminal records check is conducted by an appropriate government agency through the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) pursuant to Section 16504.5 for all of the following:(A) Any person over 18 years of age living in the home of the relative or nonrelative extended family member who seeks emergency placement of the minor, excluding any person who is a nonminor dependent, as defined in subdivision (v) of Section 11400.(B) At the discretion of the probation agency, any person over 18 years of age known to the agency to be regularly present in the home, other than any professional providing professional services to the minor.(C) At the discretion of the agency, any person over 14 years of age living in the home who the agency believes may have a criminal record, excluding any child who is under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court.(3) Conduct a check of allegations of prior child abuse or neglect concerning the relative or nonrelative extended family member and other adults in the home.(c) (1) If the CLETS information that is obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has no criminal record, the probation agency may place the minor in the home on an emergency basis.(2) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (D) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home unless a criminal records exemption has been granted using the exemption criteria specified in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) Notwithstanding paragraph (2), a minor may be placed on an emergency basis if the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense not described in subclause (II) of clause (i) of subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pending a criminal records exemption decision based on live scan fingerprint results if all of the following conditions are met:(A) The conviction does not involve an offense against a child.(B) The chief probation officer, or their designee, determines that the placement is in the best interests of the minor.(C) No party to the case objects to the placement.(4) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been arrested for any offense described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed on an emergency basis in the home until the investigation required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code has been completed and the chief probation officer, or their designee, and the court have considered the investigation results when determining whether the placement is in the best interests of the child.(5) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home on an emergency basis.(d) If the relative or nonrelative extended family member has not submitted an application for approval as a resource family at the time of the emergency placement, the probation agency shall require the relative or nonrelative extended family member to submit the application and initiate the home environment assessment no later than five business days after the emergency placement.(e) Unless the fingerprint clearance check has already been initiated, the probation agency shall ensure that, within five days of the emergency placement, a fingerprint clearance check of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and any other person whose criminal record was obtained pursuant to this section is initiated through the Department of Justice to ensure the accuracy of the criminal records check conducted through the CLETS and to ensure criminal record clearance of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and all adults in the home pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 and any associated written directives or regulations.(f) An identification card from a foreign consulate or foreign passport shall be considered a valid form of identification for conducting a criminal records check pursuant to this section.SEC. 20. Section 11405 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11405. (a) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), AFDC-FC benefits shall be paid to an otherwise eligible child living with a nonrelated legal guardian, provided that the legal guardian cooperates with the county welfare department in all of the following:(1) Developing a written assessment of the childs needs.(2) Updating the assessment no less frequently than once every six months.(3) Carrying out the case plan developed by the county.(b) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), when AFDC-FC is applied for on behalf of a child living with a nonrelated legal guardian the county welfare department shall do all of the following:(1) Develop a written assessment of the childs needs.(2) Update those assessments no less frequently than once every six months.(3) Develop a case plan that specifies how the problems identified in the assessment are to be addressed.(4) Make visits to the child as often as appropriate, but in no event less often than once every six months.(c) Where the child is a parent and has a child living with them in the same eligible facility, the assessment required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) shall include the needs of their child.(d) Nonrelated legal guardians of eligible children who are in receipt of AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be exempt from the requirement to register with the Statewide Registry of Private Professional Guardians pursuant to former Sections 2850 and 2851 of the Probate Code.(e) (1) On and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor youth whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in juvenile court pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, and whose dependency was dismissed, shall remain eligible for AFDC-FC benefits until the youth attains 19 years of age, effective January 1, 2013, until the youth attains 20 years of age, and effective January 1, 2014, until the youth attains 21 years of age, provided that the youth enters into a mutual agreement with the agency responsible for their guardianship, and the youth is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403.(2) A nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400, shall be eligible for benefits under this section until the youth attains 21 years of age if all of the following conditions are met:(A) The nonminor former dependent or ward attained 18 years of age while in receipt of Kin-GAP benefits pursuant to Article 4.7 (commencing with Section 11385).(B) The nonminors relationship to the kinship guardian is defined in paragraph (2), (3), or (4) of subdivision (c) of Section 11391.(C) The nonminor was under 16 years of age at the time the Kin-GAP negotiated agreement payments commenced.(D) The guardian continues to be responsible for the support of the nonminor.(E) The nonminor otherwise is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403.(f) On or after January 1, 2012, a child whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in probate court pursuant Article 2 (commencing with Section 1510) of Chapter 1 of Part 2 of Division 4 of the Probate Code, who is attending high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or who is in the process of pursuing a high school equivalency certificate before their 18th birthday may continue to receive aid following their 18th birthday as long as the child continues to reside in the guardians home, remains otherwise eligible for AFDC-FC benefits and continues to attend high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or continues to pursue a high school equivalency certificate, and the child may reasonably be expected to complete the educational or training program or to receive a high school equivalency certificate, before their 19th birthday. Aid shall be provided to an individual pursuant to this section provided that both the individual and the agency responsible for the foster care placement have signed a mutual agreement, if the individual is capable of making an informed agreement, documenting the continued need for out-of-home placement.(g) (1) For cases in which a guardianship was established on or before June 30, 2011, or the date specified in a final order, for which the time for appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association, et al. v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. No. C 07-05086 WHA), whichever is earlier, the AFDC-FC payment described in this section shall be the foster family home rate structure in effect before the effective date specified in the order described in this paragraph.(2) For cases in which guardianship has been established on or after July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the order described in paragraph (1), whichever is earlier, and through December 31, 2016, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be the basic foster family home rate structure effective and available as of December 31, 2016.(3) For cases in which guardianship has been established by the juvenile court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the home-based family care rate structure developed pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 11461 and Section 11463.(4) For cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the basic level rate of the home-based family care rate structure.(5) Beginning with the 201112 fiscal year, the AFDC-FC payments identified in this subdivision shall be adjusted annually by the percentage change in the California Necessities Index rate as set forth in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461.(h) In addition to the AFDC-FC rate paid, all of the following also shall be paid:(1) A specialized care increment, if applicable, as set forth in subdivision (e) of Section 11461.(2) A clothing allowance, as set forth in subdivision (f) of Section 11461.(3) For a child eligible for an AFDC-FC payment who is a teen parent, the rate shall include the two-hundred-dollar ($200) monthly payment made to the relative caregiver in a whole family foster home pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (d) of Section 11465.SEC. 21. Section 11461 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11461. (a) For children or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependents placed in a licensed or approved family home with a capacity of six or less, or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelated legal guardian, or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, or, on and after January 1, 2012, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rates in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period July 1, 1989, through December 31, 1989: AgeBasic rate 04 ........................ $294 58 ........................ $319 911 ........................ $3401214 ........................ $3781520 ........................ $412(b) (1) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that is at the levels set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive state participation, as specified in subdivision (c) of Section 15200, at these levels.(2) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that exceeds a level set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive the same level of state participation as it received on October 1, 1989.(c) The amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted as follows:(1) Effective January 1, 1990, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 12 percent.(2) Effective May 1, 1990, any county that did not increase the basic rate by 12 percent on January 1, 1990, shall do both of the following:(A) Increase the basic rate in effect December 31, 1989, for which state participation is received by 12 percent.(B) Increase the basic rate, as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (A), by an additional 5 percent.(3) (A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B), effective July 1, 1990, for the 199091 fiscal year, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by an additional 5 percent.(B) The rate increase required by subparagraph (A) shall not be applied to rates increased May 1, 1990, pursuant to paragraph (2).(4) Effective July 1, 1998, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 6 percent. Notwithstanding any other law, the 6-percent increase provided for in this paragraph shall, retroactive to July 1, 1998, apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group.(5) Notwithstanding any other law, any increase that takes effect after July 1, 1998, shall apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group.(6) The increase in the basic foster family home rate shall apply only to children placed in a licensed foster family home receiving the basic rate or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, or a nonrelated legal guardian receiving the basic rate. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster homes.(d) (1) (A) Beginning with the 199192 fiscal year, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted by the percentage changes in the California Necessities Index, computed pursuant to the methodology described in Section 11453, subject to the availability of funds.(B) In addition to the adjustment in subparagraph (A) effective January 1, 2000, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 2.36 percent rounded to the nearest dollar.(C) Effective January 1, 2008, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a), as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (B), shall be increased by 5 percent, rounded to the nearest dollar. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster family homes, and shall not be used to recompute the foster care maintenance payment that would have been paid based on the age-related, state-approved foster family home care rate and any applicable specialized care increment, for any adoption assistance agreement entered into prior to October 1, 1992, or in any subsequent reassessment for adoption assistance agreements executed before January 1, 2008.(2) (A) Any county that, as of the 199192 fiscal year, receives state participation for a basic rate that exceeds the amount set forth in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall receive an increase each year in state participation for that basic rate of one-half of the percentage adjustments specified in paragraph (1) until the difference between the countys adjusted state participation level for its basic rate and the adjusted schedule of basic rates is eliminated.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), all counties for the 19992000 fiscal year and the 200708 fiscal year shall receive an increase in state participation for the basic rate of the entire percentage adjustment described in paragraph (1).(3) If a county has, after receiving the adjustments specified in paragraph (2), a state participation level for a basic rate that is below the amount set forth in the adjusted schedule of basic rates for that fiscal year, the state participation level for that rate shall be further increased to the amount specified in the adjusted schedule of basic rates.(e) (1) As used in this section, specialized care increment means an amount paid on behalf of a child requiring specialized care to a home listed in subdivision (g) in addition to the basic rate. Notwithstanding subdivision (g), the specialized care increment shall not be paid to a nonminor dependent placed in a supervised independent living setting as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11403. A county may have a ratesetting system for specialized care to pay for the additional care and supervision needed to address the behavioral, emotional, and physical requirements of foster children. A county may modify its specialized care rate system as needed, to accommodate changing specialized placement needs of children.(2) (A) The department shall have the authority to review the countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used for compliance with state and federal law, and to require counties to make changes if necessary to conform to state and federal law.(B) The department shall make available to the public each countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used to determine the specialized care increments.(3) Upon a request by a county for technical assistance, specialized care information shall be provided by the department within 90 days of the request to the department.(4) (A) Except for subparagraph (B), beginning January 1, 1990, specialized care increments shall be adjusted in accordance with the methodology for the schedule of basic rates described in subdivisions (c) and (d).(B) Notwithstanding subdivision (e) of Section 11460, for the 199394 fiscal year, an amount equal to 5 percent of the State Treasury appropriation for family homes shall be added to the total augmentation for the AFDC-FC program in order to provide incentives and assistance to counties in the area of specialized care. This appropriation shall be used, but not limited to, encouraging counties to implement or expand specialized care payment systems, to recruit and train foster parents for the placement of children with specialized care needs, and to develop county systems to encourage the placement of children in family homes. It is the intent of the Legislature that in the use of these funds, federal financial participation shall be claimed whenever possible.(C) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the specialized care increment shall not receive a cost-of-living adjustment in the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), a county may choose to apply a cost-of-living adjustment to its specialized care increment during the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years. To the extent that a county chooses to apply a cost-of-living adjustment during that time, the state shall not participate in the costs of that adjustment.(iii) To the extent that federal financial participation is available for a cost-of-living adjustment made by a county pursuant to clause (ii), it is the intent of the Legislature that the federal funding shall be utilized.(5) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and for each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this subdivision shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code.(f) (1) As used in this section, clothing allowance means the amount paid by a county, at the countys option, in addition to the basic rate for the provision of additional clothing for a child, including, but not limited to, an initial supply of clothing and school or other uniforms. The frequency and level of funding shall be based on the needs of the child, as determined by the county.(2) The state shall no longer participate in any clothing allowance in addition to the basic rate, commencing with the 201112 fiscal year.(g) (1) Notwithstanding subdivisions (a) to (d), inclusive, for a child, or on and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor dependent, placed in a licensed foster family home or with a resource family, or placed in an approved home of a relative or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member as described in Section 362.7, or placed on and after January 1, 2012, in a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rate in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period commencing July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the final order, for which the time to appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. C 07-08056 WHA), whichever is earlier, through June 30, 2012:AgeBasic rate 04 ........................ $609 58 ........................ $660 911 ........................ $6951214 ........................ $7271520 ........................ $761(2) Commencing July 1, 2011, the basic rate set forth in this subdivision shall be annually adjusted on July 1 by the annual percentage change in the California Necessities Index applicable to the calendar year within which each July 1 occurs.(3) Subdivisions (e) and (f) shall apply to payments made pursuant to this subdivision.(4) (A) (i) For the 201617 fiscal year, the department shall develop a basic rate in coordination with the development of the foster family agency rate authorized in Section 11463 that ensures a child placed in a home-based setting described in paragraph (1), and a child placed in a certified family home or with a resource family approved by a foster family agency, is eligible for the same basic rate set forth in this paragraph.(ii) The rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(iii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020.(B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family approved by a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the certified family home or resource family from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to Section 11463.(C) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the basic rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(D) The basic rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to subparagraph (C) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(h) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this section shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code.SEC. 22. Section 11462 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11462. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for short-term residential therapeutic program placements claiming Title IV-E funding, in consultation with county placing agencies and providers.(b) The department shall develop a rate system that includes consideration of all of the following factors:(1) Core services, made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through formal agreements with other agencies, which are trauma informed and culturally relevant and include:(A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services under the Medi-Cal Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment program.(B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship.(C) Educational and physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports.(D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood.(E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate.(F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services described in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, which shall be provided to eligible children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7.(G) (i) Facilitating the identification and, as needed, the approval of resource families pursuant to Section 16519.5, for the purpose of transitioning children and youth to family-based care.(ii) If a short-term residential therapeutic program elects to approve and monitor resource families directly, the program shall comply with all laws applicable to foster family agencies, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code).(iii) For short-term residential therapeutic programs that elect to approve and monitor resource families directly, the department shall have all the same duties and responsibilities as those programs have for licensed foster family agencies, as set forth in applicable law, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code).(2) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (G), inclusive, of paragraph (1) are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent they are already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, or school-based extracurricular activities.(3) Specialized and intensive treatment supports that encompass the elements of nonmedical care and supervision necessary to meet a childs or youths safety and other needs that cannot be met in a family-based setting.(4) Staff training.(5) Health and Safety Code requirements.(6) Accreditation that includes:(A) Provision for all licensed short-term residential therapeutic programs to obtain and maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency, as identified by the department, with expertise in programs for children or youth group care facilities, as determined by the department.(B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying that agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required.(C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status.(7) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status.(8) Maximization of federal financial participation under Title IV-E and Title XIX of the Social Security Act.(c) The department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b) commencing January 1, 2017. The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new short-term residential therapeutic programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives.(1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020.(B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (3) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021.(2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, the following shall be established:(A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate.(B) An administrative review process for rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations.(C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and a protest with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations.(3) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the initial interim rates, provisional rates, and probationary rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety audits and reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers.SEC. 23. Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11463. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for the Title IV-E funded foster family agency placement option that maximizes federal funding, in consultation with county placing agencies.(b) The department shall develop a payment system for foster family agencies that provide treatment, intensive treatment, and therapeutic foster care programs, and shall consider all of the following factors:(1) Administrative activities that are eligible for federal financial participation provided, at the request of the county, for and to county-licensed or approved family homes and resource families, intensive case management and supervision, and services to achieve legal permanency or successful transition to adulthood.(2) Social work activities that are eligible for federal financial participation under Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(3) Social work and mental health services eligible for federal financial participation under Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(4) Intensive treatment or therapeutic services in the foster family agency.(5) Core services that are made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through agreements with other agencies, and which are trauma informed, culturally relevant, and include any of the following:(A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.(B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship.(C) Educational, physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports.(D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood.(E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate.(F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, shall be provided to eligible Indian children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7.(G) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (F), inclusive, are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, and school-based extracurricular activities.(6) Staff training.(7) Health and Safety Code requirements.(8) A process for accreditation that includes all of the following:(A) Provision for all licensed foster family agencies to maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency with expertise in programs for youth group care facilities, as determined by the department.(B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying the agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required.(C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status.(9) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status.(10) Populations served, including, but not limited to, any of the following:(A) (i) Children and youth assessed as seriously emotionally disturbed, as described in subdivision (a) of Section 5600.3, including those children and youth placed out-of-home pursuant to an individualized education program developed under Article 2 (commencing with Section 56320) of Chapter 4 of Part 30 of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Education Code.(ii) Children assessed as meeting the medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.(B) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving intensive and therapeutic treatment services in a foster family agency.(C) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving mental health treatment services from a foster family agency.(11) Maximization of federal financial participation for Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) and Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et. seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(c) Commencing January 1, 2017, the department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b). The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new foster family agency programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives.(1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020.(B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (4) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021.(2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, all of the following shall be established:(A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate.(B) An administrative review process for the rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations.(C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and an appeal with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations.(3) (A) (i) The foster family agency rate shall include a basic rate pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461. A child or youth placed in a certified family home or with a resource family of a foster family agency is eligible for the basic rate, which shall be passed on to the certified parent or resource family along with annual increases in accordance with paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461.(ii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate as set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020.(B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family of a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the home from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to this section.(C) In addition to the basic rate described in this paragraph, the department shall develop foster family agency rates that consider specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(i) Intensive treatment and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care.(ii) Specialized health care needs.(4) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the foster family agency rates, and the manner in which they are determined, shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers.(e) The department shall consider the impact on children and youth being transitioned to alternate programs as a result of the new ratesetting system.(f) (1) Commencing July 1, 2019, the rates paid to foster family agencies shall, except for the rate paid to a certified family home or resource family agency pursuant to clause (i) of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c), be 4.15 percent higher than the rates paid to foster family agencies in the 201819 fiscal year.(2) (A) The rate increase described in paragraph (1) shall be suspended on December 31, 2021, unless subparagraph (B) applies.(B) If, in the determination of the Department of Finance, the estimates of General Fund revenues and expenditures determined pursuant to Section 12.5 of Article IV of the California Constitution that accompany the May Revision required to be released by May 14, 2021, pursuant to Section 13308 of the Government Code, contain projected annual General Fund revenues that exceed projected annual General Fund expenditures in the 202122 and 202223 fiscal years by the sum total of General Fund moneys appropriated for all programs subject to suspension on December 31, 2021, pursuant to the Budget Act of 2019 and the bills providing for appropriations related to the Budget Act of 2019 within the meaning of subdivision (e) of Section 12 of Article IV of the California Constitution, then the implementation of the rate increase described in this subdivision shall not be suspended pursuant to subparagraph (A).(C) If subparagraph (A) applies, it is the intent of the Legislature to consider alternative solutions to facilitate the continued implementation of the rate increase described in paragraph (1).SEC. 24. Section 16501.95 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, immediately following Section 16501.9, to read:16501.95. (a) The State Department of Social Services shall determine which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in Section 1355.51 of Title 45 of the Code of Federal Regulations.(b) The department shall develop and issue written directives for child welfare contributing agencies to submit data to the applicable statewide child welfare case management systems. These directives shall address all of the following:(1) Identification of which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in federal regulations.(2) The data that a child welfare contributing agency shall provide.(3) The method in which a child welfare contributing agency shall provide data, which shall include either of the following:(A) Direct data entry into the states child welfare case management system.(B) A bidirectional data exchange between the information systems maintained by the child welfare contributing agency and the states child welfare case management system.(4) A timeline for providing the specified data in the required manner.(c) In accordance with the written directives of the department, a child welfare contributing agency shall provide child welfare services data that is collected as a result of fulfilling their contracts or agreements with the department or a county child welfare department, to the statewide child welfare case management system.(d) Notwithstanding any other law, until regulations are adopted, the department may issue written directives by provider bulletins or all-county letters, as applicable. These written directives shall have the same force and effect as regulations. The written directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code).SEC. 25. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.SEC. 25.1. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.SEC. 25.2. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 25.3. Section 16519.5 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics:(i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation.(ii) Harm reduction.(iii) Trauma-informed care.(iv) Available county and state resources.(v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation.(B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph.(C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited.(D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means.(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021.SEC. 25.4. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 25.5. Section 16519.5 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics:(i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation.(ii) Harm reduction.(iii) Trauma-informed care.(iv) Available county and state resources.(v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation.(B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph.(C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited.(D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means.(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021.SEC. 26. Section 16519.58 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.58. (a) A resource family approved by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code may transfer their approval to a county upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete the following activities:(A) Submit to the county information necessary to initiate the transfer process on a form specified by the department.(B) Authorize the county to request that clearances and exemptions issued to the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home be transferred from the department to the county pursuant to subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(C) Cooperate with the county in conducting an approval update as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5.(2) The county shall complete the following activities:(A) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, submit a request to the Department of Justice as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5.(i) The county shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the licensed foster family agency.(ii) The licensed foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the county within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(b) A county may deny a resource familys request to transfer approval to a county for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61. If the county denies a resource familys request, the resource family shall be entitled to a hearing as specified in Section 16519.6.(c) Resource family approval by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code shall be forfeited by operation of law upon the transfer of the resource family approval to a county in accordance with this section.(d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Department means the State Department of Social Services.(2) County means a county child welfare or probation department.SEC. 27. Section 18360.05 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:18360.05. (a) The department shall develop an intensive services foster care program that provides specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, the following:(1) Intensive services and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care.(2) Specialized health care needs, including those with special health care needs, as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 17710.(b) The department shall develop a program that includes a private nonprofit delivery model and a public delivery model.(c) The rate paid to an intensive services foster care resource family shall be the same whether it is paid through a licensed foster family agency model or public delivery model and shall be established pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463.(d) The rate paid to the foster family agency shall be developed pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463.(e) This chapter does not waive the requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 or Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code.(f) A licensed foster family agency or county that operates a public delivery model intensive services foster care program is not prohibited from also operating as a therapeutic foster care service model program agency.(g) A county that operates as a public delivery model shall submit to the department a program description that sets forth the manner in which it will substantially comply with the requirements of this chapter and Sections 11467, 11469.2, and 11469.3.(h) The department shall adopt regulations to implement this chapter. Until regulations are adopted, the department may administer the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code).SEC. 28. Section 18360.15 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:18360.15. (a) Each licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall develop a childs individual needs and services plan in coordination with the childs case worker, intensive services foster care resource family, and child and family team, if available. A county operating under a public delivery model or as a licensed foster family agency model may utilize the childs case plan as the individual needs and services plan.(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 17732, no more than three foster children, two of whom may be eligible children, may be placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home. Prior to the placement of a second or third foster child in the home, who may be an eligible or noneligible child, the requirements of paragraphs (1), (2), (3), and (4) of subdivision (c) shall be met.(c) Notwithstanding subdivision (b), a county placing agency may approve placements for additional foster children that would result in the placement of more than three foster children or more than two eligible children in the home in compelling circumstances, including in order to accommodate a preexisting relationship, to place a sibling group together when at least one sibling is an eligible child or was previously an eligible child in that home, or to accommodate the extraordinary needs of a specific child that the resource family has a unique ability to meet. A shortage of foster homes shall not be a compelling circumstance absent other factors. Prior to the approval of the placement of additional foster children beyond the capacity described in subdivision (b), all of the following requirements shall be met:(1) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide each county placing agency that has children placed in that home or proposed to be placed in the home with a written assessment of the risk and compatibility of placing an additional child or children with the currently placed child or children in that home, and the ability of the resource family parent or parents to provide care and support for all of the children in the home.(2) The needs and services plan of each child placed in the home shall specify the plan to ensure timely support and services for each child placed in the home.(3) When a child and family team meeting has been conducted, the county placing agency shall consider information from the child and family teams of all children placed in the home or proposed to be placed that may impact placement.(4) The capacity of the home shall not exceed the number determined by the department or county pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4.(5) The total number of eligible children placed in the home shall not exceed three unless all eligible children are related.(6) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide to the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home with the written assessment of risk and compatibility and needs and services plans described in paragraphs (1) and (2).(7) Placement of a child in the home pursuant to this subdivision shall be subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all of the county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home.(d) If a foster child resides in an intensive services foster care resource family home pursuant to subdivision (b) or (c), and this foster child is being considered for intensive services foster care, and subsequently becomes a third eligible child, the continued placement of this child is authorized subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all the county placing agencies with children placed in the home.(e) The county placing agency shall notify the department of each child in the placement and notify counsel of each child in the placement within 10 days of approval of a placement pursuant to subdivision (c) or approval to maintain a placement pursuant to subdivision (d). As part of the notification to the department, the county shall provide the department with a copy of the written assessment of the risk and compatibility described in subdivision (c).SEC. 29. Section 18360.20 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read:18360.20. The department, in consultation with counties and other stakeholders, shall consider options to expand the number of available resource families who are willing to provide intensive services foster care, including, but not limited to, the feasibility of counties and foster family agencies contracting with each other for services.SEC. 30. (a) Section 3.5 of this bill incorporates amendments to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 686. That section shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, and (3) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686, in which case Section 3 of this bill shall not become operative.(b) (1) Section 25.1 of this bill incorporates amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 686. That section shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and (3) Assembly Bill 865 is not enacted or as enacted does not amend that section, and (4) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686, in which case Sections 25, 25.2, 25.3, 25.4, and 25.5 of this bill shall not become operative.(2) Sections 25.2 and 25.3 of this bill incorporate amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 865. These sections shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, (3) Assembly Bill 686 is not enacted or as enacted does not amend that section, and (4) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 865 in which case Sections 25, 25.1, 25.4, and 25.5 of this bill shall not become operative.(3) Sections 25.4 and 25.5 of this bill incorporate amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by this bill, Assembly Bill 686, and Assembly Bill 865. These sections shall only become operative if (1) all three bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) all three bills amend Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and (3) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686 and Assembly Bill 865, in which case Sections 25, 25.1, 25.2, and 25.3 of this bill shall not become operative.SEC. 31. To the extent that this act has an overall effect of increasing the costs already borne by a local agency for programs or levels of service mandated by the 2011 Realignment Legislation within the meaning of Section 36 of Article XIII of the California Constitution, it shall apply to local agencies only to the extent that the state provides annual funding for the cost increase. Any new program or higher level of service provided by a local agency pursuant to this act above the level for which funding has been provided shall not require a subvention of funds by the state or otherwise be subject to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.With regard to certain other costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district, no reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because, in that regard, this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution. SEC. 32. No appropriation pursuant to Section 15200 of the Welfare and Institutions Code shall be made for purposes of this act. |
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| 3 | + | Enrolled September 13, 2019 Passed IN Senate September 09, 2019 Passed IN Assembly September 10, 2019 Amended IN Senate September 05, 2019 Amended IN Senate August 19, 2019 Amended IN Senate July 01, 2019 Amended IN Senate June 10, 2019 Amended IN Senate May 29, 2019 Amended IN Assembly April 12, 2019 Amended IN Assembly March 28, 2019 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20192020 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 819Introduced by Assembly Member Mark StoneFebruary 20, 2019An act to amend Sections 1506.1, 1507.25, 1517, 1517.5, 1522, 1522.1, 1527, 1527.1, 1527.2, 1527.4, 1527.5, 1558, 1562.02, 1568.092, 1569.58, and 1596.8897 of the Health and Safety Code, to amend Section 11172 of the Penal Code, and to amend Sections 366.3, 11405, 11461, 11462, 11463, 16519.5, 16519.58, 18360.05, and 18360.15 of, and to add Sections 727.05, 16501.95, and 18360.20 to, the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to foster care.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 819, Mark Stone. Foster care.(1) Existing law, commonly known as Continuum of Care Reform (CCR), states the intent of the Legislature to improve Californias child welfare system and its outcomes by increasing the use of home-based family care and creating faster paths to permanency resulting in shorter durations of involvement in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems, among other things.Existing law, as part of the CCR, requires the State Department of Social Services to implement a resource family approval process, and directs counties and foster family agencies, commencing January 1, 2017, to approve resource families in lieu of licensing and certifying foster homes. Existing law defines a resource family as an individual or family that has successfully met both home environment assessment standards and permanency assessment criteria. Existing law requires the department to review resource family approval standards, including case file documentation. Existing law requires foster family agencies to prepare a written report on an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes, and requires counties and foster family agencies, when a resource family seeks approval by a subsequent foster family agency or transfer of their approval to a county, to request or provide the above-specified written report, including any updates to the report.This bill would require counties and foster family agencies, when a resource family seeks approval by a subsequent foster family agency or transfer of their approval to a county, to request or provide documents in the resource family file maintained by a county or the resource family case record maintained by a foster family agency, including any updates to the file or record. By imposing additional duties on counties, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(2) Existing law requires the department to license and regulate various facilities, including community care facilities, residential care facilities for persons with chronic, life-threatening illness, child daycare centers, family childcare homes, and licensed foster family homes or certified family homes, and generally makes violations of these requirements a crime. Existing law requires the department to secure from an appropriate law enforcement agency a criminal record to determine whether an applicant or specified persons have been convicted of a crime, and prohibits the department from approving applicants who have committed specified crimes. Existing law authorizes the department to prohibit a person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of one of the above-specified facilities if they, among other things, have engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either the people of the state or an individual in or receiving services from the facility or have engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of the facility. Existing law generally prohibits an excluded person from working in a facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life if the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order.This bill would state that an excluded person is prohibited from being a resource family. The bill would impose specified criminal background check requirements on individuals who work in a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child. By expanding the requirements on those facilities, the violation of which is a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(3) Existing law authorizes specified caregivers who are not licensed health care professionals to administer subcutaneous injections of medications to a foster child in placement, as prescribed by the childs physician.This bill would additionally authorize a staff member of a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the group home to administer those injections to a foster child in placement.(4) Existing law requires the department to establish rates for short-term residential therapeutic programs and foster family agencies that include an interim rate that is effective January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2019, inclusive, and that becomes inoperative on January 1, 2020.This bill would instead make that interim rate effective January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2020, inclusive, and would make it inoperative on January 1, 2021.(5) Existing law authorizes the department to license, no later than January 1, 2019, and contingent upon an appropriation in the annual Budget Act for these purposes, a short-term residential therapeutic program operating as a childrens crisis residential program, as defined, and requires the department to regulate those programs.This bill would specify distinct program approval requirements for short-term residential treatment programs that serve only children who are experiencing mental health crises and programs that also serve children who are not experiencing mental health crises.(6) Existing law establishes the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund within the State Department of Social Services to pay, on behalf of foster family homes, small family homes, and resource families, claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem resulting from occurrences peculiar to the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services.This bill would authorize the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund to make, on or after January 1, 2020, payments on behalf of tribally approved homes.(7) Existing law authorizes a court to make any reasonable orders for the care, supervision, custody, conduct, maintenance, and support of a minor or nonminor, if they are adjudged a ward of the court. Existing law, in conformity with federal law, requires a probation agency to determine the appropriate placement for the ward once the court issues a placement order.This bill would authorize a probation agency to make an emergency placement of a minor with a relative or nonrelative extended family member if the probation agency takes specified action, including conducting an in-home inspection and requiring the relative or nonrelative extended family member to submit an application for approval as a resource family. (8) Existing law, as part of the CCR, updated payment rate structures for foster care programs, and requires the home-based family care rate structure to be implemented as of January 1, 2017. Existing law requires that cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court receive the basic foster care maintenance rate effective and available as of December 31, 2016, instead of the home-based family care rate.This bill would instead require cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court to receive the basic level rate of the home-based family care rate structure.(9) Existing law requires the state, through the department and county welfare departments, to establish and support a public system of statewide child welfare services, and requires the department to implement a single statewide Child Welfare Services Case Management System (CWS/CMS) to administer and evaluate the states child welfare services and foster care programs. Existing federal regulations require a child welfare contributing agency, as defined, to provide specified data from the Comprehensive Child Welfare Information Systems and support bidirectional data exchanges to exchange relevant data amongst various systems.This bill would require the department to determine which entities are a child welfare contributing agency for purposes of the federal regulations, and to develop and issue written directives for child welfare contributing agencies on specified matters, including how to submit data to applicable child welfare case management systems. The bill would require each child welfare contributing agency to provide child welfare services data to the statewide child welfare case management system. To the extent that the reporting requirements increase the workload of county agencies, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(10) Existing law requires the department to develop an intensive services foster care program to serve children with specific needs, including intensive treatment and behavioral needs and specialized health care needs, whose needs for safety, permanency, and well-being require specially trained resource parents and intensive professional and paraprofessional services and supports in order to remain in a home-based setting or to avoid or exit congregate care in a short-term residential therapeutic program, group home, or out-of-state residential center. Existing law prohibits more than 2 foster children from being placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home if one or both of the children has intensive needs. Existing law, notwithstanding that provision, authorizes up to 5 foster children to be placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home in order to accommodate sibling group placement. Existing law requires, prior to the placement of a 2nd or subsequent child in an intensive services foster care resource family home, a foster family agency to provide the county placing agency with a written assessment of risks and compatibility.The bill would instead authorize a county placing agency to approve placements for no more than 3 foster children, 2 of whom may be eligible children, in an intensive services foster care resource family home, and would authorize the county to approve additional placements in compelling circumstances, such as to accommodate a preexisting relationship, if specified requirements are met, including that the needs and services plan of each child placed in the home would ensure timely support and services for that child. The bill would condition these additional placements on the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department. The bill would require the department to adopt regulations to implement the intensive services foster care program, and would authorize the department, until regulations are adopted, to administer the program through the issuance of written directives. The bill would require a foster family agency that intends to operate an intensive services foster care program to provide to the department a description of the program model and how it intends to comply with specified statutory requirements.This bill would also require the department, in consultation with counties and other interested stakeholders, to consider options to expand the number of available resource families who are willing to provide intensive services foster care.(11) If a relative of a dependent child is appointed the legal guardian of the child and the child has been placed with the relative for at least 6 months, existing law requires the court to terminate its dependency jurisdiction and to retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the guardianship, unless the relative guardian objects or upon a finding of exceptional circumstances.This bill would also apply this provision to a nonrelative extended family member. The bill would instead condition the requirement for the court to terminate dependency jurisdiction on the guardians home maintaining resource family approval for at least 6 months.(12) Existing law, the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act, requires a mandated reporter, as defined, to report whenever they, in their professional capacity or within the scope of their employment, have knowledge of or observed a child whom the mandated reporter knows or reasonably suspects has been the victim of child abuse or neglect. Existing law grants civil and criminal immunity to specified individuals, including a mandated reporter, for any report that is required or authorized by the act.This bill would extend civil and criminal immunity to any person who, in good faith, provides information or assistance, in connection with a report, investigation, or legal intervention pursuant to a good faith report of child abuse or neglect under the act.(13) Existing law continuously appropriates funds from the General Fund to defray a portion of the states share of costs under the CalWORKs program, the AFDC-FC program, and for the placement of hard-to-place adoptive children.This bill would provide that the continuous appropriation would not be made for purposes of implementing the bill.(14) This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code proposed by AB 686 to be operative only if this bill and AB 686 are enacted and this bill is enacted last.This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by AB 686 and AB 865 to be operative only if this bill and AB 686, this bill and AB 865, or all 3 bills are enacted and this bill is enacted last.(15) The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES |
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| 4 | + | |
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| 5 | + | Enrolled September 13, 2019 Passed IN Senate September 09, 2019 Passed IN Assembly September 10, 2019 Amended IN Senate September 05, 2019 Amended IN Senate August 19, 2019 Amended IN Senate July 01, 2019 Amended IN Senate June 10, 2019 Amended IN Senate May 29, 2019 Amended IN Assembly April 12, 2019 Amended IN Assembly March 28, 2019 |
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| 6 | + | |
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| 7 | + | Enrolled September 13, 2019 |
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| 8 | + | Passed IN Senate September 09, 2019 |
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| 9 | + | Passed IN Assembly September 10, 2019 |
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| 10 | + | Amended IN Senate September 05, 2019 |
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| 11 | + | Amended IN Senate August 19, 2019 |
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| 12 | + | Amended IN Senate July 01, 2019 |
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| 13 | + | Amended IN Senate June 10, 2019 |
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| 14 | + | Amended IN Senate May 29, 2019 |
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| 15 | + | Amended IN Assembly April 12, 2019 |
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| 16 | + | Amended IN Assembly March 28, 2019 |
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| 17 | + | |
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| 18 | + | CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20192020 REGULAR SESSION |
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| 19 | + | |
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| 20 | + | Assembly Bill |
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| 21 | + | |
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| 22 | + | No. 819 |
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| 23 | + | |
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| 24 | + | Introduced by Assembly Member Mark StoneFebruary 20, 2019 |
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| 25 | + | |
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| 26 | + | Introduced by Assembly Member Mark Stone |
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| 27 | + | February 20, 2019 |
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| 14 | 30 | | |
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| 15 | 31 | | LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST |
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| 16 | 32 | | |
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| 17 | 33 | | ## LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST |
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| 18 | 34 | | |
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| 19 | 35 | | AB 819, Mark Stone. Foster care. |
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| 20 | 36 | | |
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| 21 | 37 | | (1) Existing law, commonly known as Continuum of Care Reform (CCR), states the intent of the Legislature to improve Californias child welfare system and its outcomes by increasing the use of home-based family care and creating faster paths to permanency resulting in shorter durations of involvement in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems, among other things.Existing law, as part of the CCR, requires the State Department of Social Services to implement a resource family approval process, and directs counties and foster family agencies, commencing January 1, 2017, to approve resource families in lieu of licensing and certifying foster homes. Existing law defines a resource family as an individual or family that has successfully met both home environment assessment standards and permanency assessment criteria. Existing law requires the department to review resource family approval standards, including case file documentation. Existing law requires foster family agencies to prepare a written report on an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes, and requires counties and foster family agencies, when a resource family seeks approval by a subsequent foster family agency or transfer of their approval to a county, to request or provide the above-specified written report, including any updates to the report.This bill would require counties and foster family agencies, when a resource family seeks approval by a subsequent foster family agency or transfer of their approval to a county, to request or provide documents in the resource family file maintained by a county or the resource family case record maintained by a foster family agency, including any updates to the file or record. By imposing additional duties on counties, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(2) Existing law requires the department to license and regulate various facilities, including community care facilities, residential care facilities for persons with chronic, life-threatening illness, child daycare centers, family childcare homes, and licensed foster family homes or certified family homes, and generally makes violations of these requirements a crime. Existing law requires the department to secure from an appropriate law enforcement agency a criminal record to determine whether an applicant or specified persons have been convicted of a crime, and prohibits the department from approving applicants who have committed specified crimes. Existing law authorizes the department to prohibit a person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of one of the above-specified facilities if they, among other things, have engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either the people of the state or an individual in or receiving services from the facility or have engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of the facility. Existing law generally prohibits an excluded person from working in a facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life if the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order.This bill would state that an excluded person is prohibited from being a resource family. The bill would impose specified criminal background check requirements on individuals who work in a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child. By expanding the requirements on those facilities, the violation of which is a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(3) Existing law authorizes specified caregivers who are not licensed health care professionals to administer subcutaneous injections of medications to a foster child in placement, as prescribed by the childs physician.This bill would additionally authorize a staff member of a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the group home to administer those injections to a foster child in placement.(4) Existing law requires the department to establish rates for short-term residential therapeutic programs and foster family agencies that include an interim rate that is effective January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2019, inclusive, and that becomes inoperative on January 1, 2020.This bill would instead make that interim rate effective January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2020, inclusive, and would make it inoperative on January 1, 2021.(5) Existing law authorizes the department to license, no later than January 1, 2019, and contingent upon an appropriation in the annual Budget Act for these purposes, a short-term residential therapeutic program operating as a childrens crisis residential program, as defined, and requires the department to regulate those programs.This bill would specify distinct program approval requirements for short-term residential treatment programs that serve only children who are experiencing mental health crises and programs that also serve children who are not experiencing mental health crises.(6) Existing law establishes the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund within the State Department of Social Services to pay, on behalf of foster family homes, small family homes, and resource families, claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem resulting from occurrences peculiar to the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services.This bill would authorize the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund to make, on or after January 1, 2020, payments on behalf of tribally approved homes.(7) Existing law authorizes a court to make any reasonable orders for the care, supervision, custody, conduct, maintenance, and support of a minor or nonminor, if they are adjudged a ward of the court. Existing law, in conformity with federal law, requires a probation agency to determine the appropriate placement for the ward once the court issues a placement order.This bill would authorize a probation agency to make an emergency placement of a minor with a relative or nonrelative extended family member if the probation agency takes specified action, including conducting an in-home inspection and requiring the relative or nonrelative extended family member to submit an application for approval as a resource family. (8) Existing law, as part of the CCR, updated payment rate structures for foster care programs, and requires the home-based family care rate structure to be implemented as of January 1, 2017. Existing law requires that cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court receive the basic foster care maintenance rate effective and available as of December 31, 2016, instead of the home-based family care rate.This bill would instead require cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court to receive the basic level rate of the home-based family care rate structure.(9) Existing law requires the state, through the department and county welfare departments, to establish and support a public system of statewide child welfare services, and requires the department to implement a single statewide Child Welfare Services Case Management System (CWS/CMS) to administer and evaluate the states child welfare services and foster care programs. Existing federal regulations require a child welfare contributing agency, as defined, to provide specified data from the Comprehensive Child Welfare Information Systems and support bidirectional data exchanges to exchange relevant data amongst various systems.This bill would require the department to determine which entities are a child welfare contributing agency for purposes of the federal regulations, and to develop and issue written directives for child welfare contributing agencies on specified matters, including how to submit data to applicable child welfare case management systems. The bill would require each child welfare contributing agency to provide child welfare services data to the statewide child welfare case management system. To the extent that the reporting requirements increase the workload of county agencies, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(10) Existing law requires the department to develop an intensive services foster care program to serve children with specific needs, including intensive treatment and behavioral needs and specialized health care needs, whose needs for safety, permanency, and well-being require specially trained resource parents and intensive professional and paraprofessional services and supports in order to remain in a home-based setting or to avoid or exit congregate care in a short-term residential therapeutic program, group home, or out-of-state residential center. Existing law prohibits more than 2 foster children from being placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home if one or both of the children has intensive needs. Existing law, notwithstanding that provision, authorizes up to 5 foster children to be placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home in order to accommodate sibling group placement. Existing law requires, prior to the placement of a 2nd or subsequent child in an intensive services foster care resource family home, a foster family agency to provide the county placing agency with a written assessment of risks and compatibility.The bill would instead authorize a county placing agency to approve placements for no more than 3 foster children, 2 of whom may be eligible children, in an intensive services foster care resource family home, and would authorize the county to approve additional placements in compelling circumstances, such as to accommodate a preexisting relationship, if specified requirements are met, including that the needs and services plan of each child placed in the home would ensure timely support and services for that child. The bill would condition these additional placements on the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department. The bill would require the department to adopt regulations to implement the intensive services foster care program, and would authorize the department, until regulations are adopted, to administer the program through the issuance of written directives. The bill would require a foster family agency that intends to operate an intensive services foster care program to provide to the department a description of the program model and how it intends to comply with specified statutory requirements.This bill would also require the department, in consultation with counties and other interested stakeholders, to consider options to expand the number of available resource families who are willing to provide intensive services foster care.(11) If a relative of a dependent child is appointed the legal guardian of the child and the child has been placed with the relative for at least 6 months, existing law requires the court to terminate its dependency jurisdiction and to retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the guardianship, unless the relative guardian objects or upon a finding of exceptional circumstances.This bill would also apply this provision to a nonrelative extended family member. The bill would instead condition the requirement for the court to terminate dependency jurisdiction on the guardians home maintaining resource family approval for at least 6 months.(12) Existing law, the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act, requires a mandated reporter, as defined, to report whenever they, in their professional capacity or within the scope of their employment, have knowledge of or observed a child whom the mandated reporter knows or reasonably suspects has been the victim of child abuse or neglect. Existing law grants civil and criminal immunity to specified individuals, including a mandated reporter, for any report that is required or authorized by the act.This bill would extend civil and criminal immunity to any person who, in good faith, provides information or assistance, in connection with a report, investigation, or legal intervention pursuant to a good faith report of child abuse or neglect under the act.(13) Existing law continuously appropriates funds from the General Fund to defray a portion of the states share of costs under the CalWORKs program, the AFDC-FC program, and for the placement of hard-to-place adoptive children.This bill would provide that the continuous appropriation would not be made for purposes of implementing the bill.(14) This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code proposed by AB 686 to be operative only if this bill and AB 686 are enacted and this bill is enacted last.This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by AB 686 and AB 865 to be operative only if this bill and AB 686, this bill and AB 865, or all 3 bills are enacted and this bill is enacted last.(15) The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason. |
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| 22 | 38 | | |
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| 23 | 39 | | (1) Existing law, commonly known as Continuum of Care Reform (CCR), states the intent of the Legislature to improve Californias child welfare system and its outcomes by increasing the use of home-based family care and creating faster paths to permanency resulting in shorter durations of involvement in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems, among other things. |
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| 24 | 40 | | |
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| 25 | 41 | | Existing law, as part of the CCR, requires the State Department of Social Services to implement a resource family approval process, and directs counties and foster family agencies, commencing January 1, 2017, to approve resource families in lieu of licensing and certifying foster homes. Existing law defines a resource family as an individual or family that has successfully met both home environment assessment standards and permanency assessment criteria. Existing law requires the department to review resource family approval standards, including case file documentation. Existing law requires foster family agencies to prepare a written report on an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes, and requires counties and foster family agencies, when a resource family seeks approval by a subsequent foster family agency or transfer of their approval to a county, to request or provide the above-specified written report, including any updates to the report. |
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| 26 | 42 | | |
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| 27 | 43 | | This bill would require counties and foster family agencies, when a resource family seeks approval by a subsequent foster family agency or transfer of their approval to a county, to request or provide documents in the resource family file maintained by a county or the resource family case record maintained by a foster family agency, including any updates to the file or record. By imposing additional duties on counties, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. |
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| 28 | 44 | | |
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| 29 | 45 | | (2) Existing law requires the department to license and regulate various facilities, including community care facilities, residential care facilities for persons with chronic, life-threatening illness, child daycare centers, family childcare homes, and licensed foster family homes or certified family homes, and generally makes violations of these requirements a crime. Existing law requires the department to secure from an appropriate law enforcement agency a criminal record to determine whether an applicant or specified persons have been convicted of a crime, and prohibits the department from approving applicants who have committed specified crimes. Existing law authorizes the department to prohibit a person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of one of the above-specified facilities if they, among other things, have engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either the people of the state or an individual in or receiving services from the facility or have engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of the facility. Existing law generally prohibits an excluded person from working in a facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life if the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order. |
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| 30 | 46 | | |
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| 31 | 47 | | This bill would state that an excluded person is prohibited from being a resource family. The bill would impose specified criminal background check requirements on individuals who work in a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child. By expanding the requirements on those facilities, the violation of which is a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. |
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| 32 | 48 | | |
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| 33 | 49 | | (3) Existing law authorizes specified caregivers who are not licensed health care professionals to administer subcutaneous injections of medications to a foster child in placement, as prescribed by the childs physician. |
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| 34 | 50 | | |
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| 35 | 51 | | This bill would additionally authorize a staff member of a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the group home to administer those injections to a foster child in placement. |
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| 36 | 52 | | |
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| 37 | 53 | | (4) Existing law requires the department to establish rates for short-term residential therapeutic programs and foster family agencies that include an interim rate that is effective January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2019, inclusive, and that becomes inoperative on January 1, 2020. |
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| 38 | 54 | | |
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| 39 | 55 | | This bill would instead make that interim rate effective January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2020, inclusive, and would make it inoperative on January 1, 2021. |
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| 40 | 56 | | |
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| 41 | 57 | | (5) Existing law authorizes the department to license, no later than January 1, 2019, and contingent upon an appropriation in the annual Budget Act for these purposes, a short-term residential therapeutic program operating as a childrens crisis residential program, as defined, and requires the department to regulate those programs. |
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| 42 | 58 | | |
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| 43 | 59 | | This bill would specify distinct program approval requirements for short-term residential treatment programs that serve only children who are experiencing mental health crises and programs that also serve children who are not experiencing mental health crises. |
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| 44 | 60 | | |
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| 45 | 61 | | (6) Existing law establishes the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund within the State Department of Social Services to pay, on behalf of foster family homes, small family homes, and resource families, claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem resulting from occurrences peculiar to the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services. |
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| 46 | 62 | | |
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| 47 | 63 | | This bill would authorize the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund to make, on or after January 1, 2020, payments on behalf of tribally approved homes. |
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| 48 | 64 | | |
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| 49 | 65 | | (7) Existing law authorizes a court to make any reasonable orders for the care, supervision, custody, conduct, maintenance, and support of a minor or nonminor, if they are adjudged a ward of the court. Existing law, in conformity with federal law, requires a probation agency to determine the appropriate placement for the ward once the court issues a placement order. |
|---|
| 50 | 66 | | |
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| 51 | 67 | | This bill would authorize a probation agency to make an emergency placement of a minor with a relative or nonrelative extended family member if the probation agency takes specified action, including conducting an in-home inspection and requiring the relative or nonrelative extended family member to submit an application for approval as a resource family. |
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| 52 | 68 | | |
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| 53 | 69 | | (8) Existing law, as part of the CCR, updated payment rate structures for foster care programs, and requires the home-based family care rate structure to be implemented as of January 1, 2017. Existing law requires that cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court receive the basic foster care maintenance rate effective and available as of December 31, 2016, instead of the home-based family care rate. |
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| 54 | 70 | | |
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| 55 | 71 | | This bill would instead require cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court to receive the basic level rate of the home-based family care rate structure. |
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| 56 | 72 | | |
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| 57 | 73 | | (9) Existing law requires the state, through the department and county welfare departments, to establish and support a public system of statewide child welfare services, and requires the department to implement a single statewide Child Welfare Services Case Management System (CWS/CMS) to administer and evaluate the states child welfare services and foster care programs. Existing federal regulations require a child welfare contributing agency, as defined, to provide specified data from the Comprehensive Child Welfare Information Systems and support bidirectional data exchanges to exchange relevant data amongst various systems. |
|---|
| 58 | 74 | | |
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| 59 | 75 | | This bill would require the department to determine which entities are a child welfare contributing agency for purposes of the federal regulations, and to develop and issue written directives for child welfare contributing agencies on specified matters, including how to submit data to applicable child welfare case management systems. The bill would require each child welfare contributing agency to provide child welfare services data to the statewide child welfare case management system. To the extent that the reporting requirements increase the workload of county agencies, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. |
|---|
| 60 | 76 | | |
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| 61 | 77 | | (10) Existing law requires the department to develop an intensive services foster care program to serve children with specific needs, including intensive treatment and behavioral needs and specialized health care needs, whose needs for safety, permanency, and well-being require specially trained resource parents and intensive professional and paraprofessional services and supports in order to remain in a home-based setting or to avoid or exit congregate care in a short-term residential therapeutic program, group home, or out-of-state residential center. Existing law prohibits more than 2 foster children from being placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home if one or both of the children has intensive needs. Existing law, notwithstanding that provision, authorizes up to 5 foster children to be placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home in order to accommodate sibling group placement. Existing law requires, prior to the placement of a 2nd or subsequent child in an intensive services foster care resource family home, a foster family agency to provide the county placing agency with a written assessment of risks and compatibility. |
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| 62 | 78 | | |
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| 63 | 79 | | The bill would instead authorize a county placing agency to approve placements for no more than 3 foster children, 2 of whom may be eligible children, in an intensive services foster care resource family home, and would authorize the county to approve additional placements in compelling circumstances, such as to accommodate a preexisting relationship, if specified requirements are met, including that the needs and services plan of each child placed in the home would ensure timely support and services for that child. The bill would condition these additional placements on the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department. The bill would require the department to adopt regulations to implement the intensive services foster care program, and would authorize the department, until regulations are adopted, to administer the program through the issuance of written directives. The bill would require a foster family agency that intends to operate an intensive services foster care program to provide to the department a description of the program model and how it intends to comply with specified statutory requirements. |
|---|
| 64 | 80 | | |
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| 65 | 81 | | This bill would also require the department, in consultation with counties and other interested stakeholders, to consider options to expand the number of available resource families who are willing to provide intensive services foster care. |
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| 66 | 82 | | |
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| 67 | 83 | | (11) If a relative of a dependent child is appointed the legal guardian of the child and the child has been placed with the relative for at least 6 months, existing law requires the court to terminate its dependency jurisdiction and to retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the guardianship, unless the relative guardian objects or upon a finding of exceptional circumstances. |
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| 68 | 84 | | |
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| 69 | 85 | | This bill would also apply this provision to a nonrelative extended family member. The bill would instead condition the requirement for the court to terminate dependency jurisdiction on the guardians home maintaining resource family approval for at least 6 months. |
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| 70 | 86 | | |
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| 71 | 87 | | (12) Existing law, the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act, requires a mandated reporter, as defined, to report whenever they, in their professional capacity or within the scope of their employment, have knowledge of or observed a child whom the mandated reporter knows or reasonably suspects has been the victim of child abuse or neglect. Existing law grants civil and criminal immunity to specified individuals, including a mandated reporter, for any report that is required or authorized by the act. |
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| 72 | 88 | | |
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| 73 | 89 | | This bill would extend civil and criminal immunity to any person who, in good faith, provides information or assistance, in connection with a report, investigation, or legal intervention pursuant to a good faith report of child abuse or neglect under the act. |
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| 74 | 90 | | |
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| 75 | 91 | | (13) Existing law continuously appropriates funds from the General Fund to defray a portion of the states share of costs under the CalWORKs program, the AFDC-FC program, and for the placement of hard-to-place adoptive children. |
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| 76 | 92 | | |
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| 77 | 93 | | This bill would provide that the continuous appropriation would not be made for purposes of implementing the bill. |
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| 78 | 94 | | |
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| 79 | 95 | | (14) This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code proposed by AB 686 to be operative only if this bill and AB 686 are enacted and this bill is enacted last. |
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| 80 | 96 | | |
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| 81 | 97 | | This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by AB 686 and AB 865 to be operative only if this bill and AB 686, this bill and AB 865, or all 3 bills are enacted and this bill is enacted last. |
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| 82 | 98 | | |
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| 83 | 99 | | (15) The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. |
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| 84 | 100 | | |
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| 85 | 101 | | This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason. |
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| 86 | 102 | | |
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| 87 | 103 | | ## Digest Key |
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| 88 | 104 | | |
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| 89 | 105 | | ## Bill Text |
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| 90 | 106 | | |
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| 91 | 107 | | The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 1506.1 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1506.1. (a) A foster family agency shall prepare and maintain a current, written plan of operation as required by the department.(b) (1) A foster family agency shall have national accreditation from an entity identified by the department pursuant to the process described in paragraph (8) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed before January 1, 2017:(A) The foster family agency shall have until December 31, 2018, to obtain accreditation.(B) The foster family agency shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation to the department in a time and manner as determined by the department.(C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status as of January 1, 2018, and July 1, 2018, in a time and manner as determined by the department.(3) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed on or after January 1, 2017:(A) The foster family agency shall have up to 24 months from the date of licensure to obtain accreditation.(B) The foster family agency applicant shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation with its application for licensure.(C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status at 12 months and at 18 months after the date of licensure.(4) This subdivision does not preclude the department from requesting additional information from the foster family agency regarding its accreditation status.(5) The department may revoke a foster family agencys license pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) for failure to obtain accreditation within the timeframes specified in this subdivision.(6) The department may extend the date by which to comply with paragraph (2), as applicable, for up to one year upon the request of a foster family agency that has been vendored as a service provider by a regional center for persons with developmental disabilities. In determining whether to extend the date, the department shall consult with any county placement agency that places children with the foster family agency, the vendorizing regional center, and the State Department of Developmental Services.(c) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agencys plan of operation shall include a program statement. The program statement shall contain a description of all of the following:(1) The core services and supports, as set forth in paragraph (5) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and as prescribed by the department, to be offered to children and their families, as appropriate or as necessary.(2) The treatment practices that will be used in serving children and families.(3) The procedures for the development, implementation, and periodic updating of the needs and services plan for children placed with the foster family agency or served by the foster family agency, consistent with the case plans as developed by the county placing agency, that support the reasonable and prudent parent standard, as defined in Section 362.05 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and procedures for collaborating with the child and family team, as described in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which includes, but is not limited to, a description of the services to be provided to meet the treatment needs of children assessed.(4) (A) How the foster family agency will comply with the resource family approval standards and requirements, as set forth in Section 1517.(B) A foster family agency that chooses not to approve resource families pursuant to Section 1517 shall describe in the program statement the transition plan for its certified family homes to obtain resource family approval prior to December 31, 2019.(5) The population or populations to be served.(6) The ability to support the differing needs of children and their families.(7) The plan for the supervision, evaluation, and training of staff. The training plan shall be appropriate to meet the needs of children, and it shall be consistent with the training provided to resource families as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(8) The ability to provide or arrange for treatment services to meet the individual needs of children placed in certified family homes or with resource families, as specified in Section 11402 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(9) The plan for the training, supervision, and support of resource families to meet the appropriate needs of children, consistent with the training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. To the extent possible, the foster family agency training plan for resource families shall be consistent with the training requirements set forth by the county child welfare placing agency.(10) The agency or agencies that the foster family agency has partnered with, either formally or informally, to provide additional supports and services to families and children during care and postpermanency.(11) The plan for participation in child and family teams and supporting the participation of the agencys resource families in those teams, as appropriate.(12) If the foster family agency plans to operate as an intensive services foster care program, a description of the program model and how the foster family agency will comply with the requirements set forth in Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(13) Any other information that may be prescribed by the department for the proper administration of this section.(d) In addition to the rules and regulations adopted pursuant to this chapter, a county licensed to operate a foster family agency shall describe, in the plan of operation, its conflict-of-interest mitigation plan, on and after January 1, 2017, as set forth in subdivision (g) of Section 11462.02 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(e) (1) (A) (i) A foster family agency applicant shall submit an application to the department that includes a letter of recommendation in support of its program from a county placing agency.(ii) The letter of recommendation shall include a statement that the county placing agency reviewed the applicants program statement.(iii) If the letter of recommendation is not from the county in which the facility is located, the foster family agency applicant shall include with its application a statement that it provided the county in which the facility is located an opportunity for that county to review the program statement and notified that county that the facility has received a letter of recommendation from another county.(B) If the application does not contain a letter of recommendation as described in subparagraph (A), then the department shall cease review of the application. This paragraph does not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of Section 1526 or any other law.(C) A new letter of recommendation is not required when a foster family agency moves locations.(2) A foster family agency shall submit a copy of its program statement to all county placing agencies with which placements are coordinated or for which services are provided, including the county in which the facility is located, for optional review when the foster family agency updates its program statement.(f) The department shall have the authority to inspect a foster family agency pursuant to the system of governmental monitoring and oversight developed by the department on and after January 1, 2017, pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 2. Section 1507.25 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1507.25. (a) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer emergency medical assistance and injections for severe diabetic hypoglycemia and anaphylactic shock to a foster child in placement.(2) The following individuals shall be authorized to administer emergency medical assistance and injections in accordance with this subdivision:(A) A relative caregiver.(B) A nonrelative extended family member.(C) A foster family home parent.(D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(E) A small family home parent.(F) A certified parent of a foster family agency.(G) A designated substitute caregiver of a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family.(H) A staff member of a small family home or a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the small family home or group home.(I) A staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(J) A staff member of a transitional shelter care facility or a temporary shelter care facility who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate.(b) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer subcutaneous injections of other medications, including insulin, as prescribed by the childs physician, to a foster child in placement.(2) The following individuals shall be authorized to give prescribed injections, including insulin, in accordance with this subdivision:(A) A relative caregiver.(B) A nonrelative extended family member.(C) A foster family home parent.(D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(E) A small family home parent.(F) A certified parent of a foster family agency.(G) In the absence of a foster parent, a designated substitute caregiver in a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family.(H) A staff member of a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the group home.(I) A direct care staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate.(c) For purposes of this section, administration of an insulin injection shall include all necessary supportive activities related to the preparation and administration of the injection, including glucose testing and monitoring.(d) Notwithstanding Part 5.5 (commencing with Section 17700) of Division 9 of, and particularly subdivision (g) of Section 17710 of, the Welfare and Institutions Code, a childs need to receive injections pursuant to this section shall not be the sole basis for determining that the child has a medical condition requiring specialized in-home health care.(e) This section does not supersede the requirements of Section 369.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, with respect to the administration of psychotropic medication to a dependent child of the court.SEC. 3. Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years.(B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code.(C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law.(D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed.(b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with the provisions of this section.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department.(B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(D) Taking the following actions, as applicable:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month.(F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78.(ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(H) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement.(c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved.(2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department.(3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency.(4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate.(5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety.(6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action.(d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided.(2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family.(A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing.(B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551.(ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing.(C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits.(D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550.(e) Neither this section nor Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter.(3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes:(A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph:(A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section.(h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 3.5. Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the foster family agency shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may provide guidance to foster family agencies regarding consistent implementation of this clause through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations, until regulations are adopted.(5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years.(B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code.(C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law.(D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed.(b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with this section.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department.(B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(D) Taking the following actions, as applicable:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month.(F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78.(ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(H) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement.(c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved.(2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department.(3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency.(4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate.(5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety.(6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action.(d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided.(2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family.(A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing.(B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551.(ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing.(C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits.(D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550.(e) This section and Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code do not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter.(3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes:(A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph:(A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section.(h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 4. Section 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1517.5. (a) A resource family currently approved by a foster family agency pursuant to this section or Section 1517 may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete the following activities:(A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency.(B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code.(C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2.(C) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family from the current foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the current foster family agency.(ii) The current foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family to the subsequent foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(b) A resource family currently approved by a county pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency.(B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code.(C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2.(C) Complete an approval update for the resource family, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the county.(ii) The county shall forward a copy of the written report and any updates to the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(c) Resource family approval by a current foster family agency or a county shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family by a subsequent foster family agency in accordance with this section.(d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Current foster family agency means a foster family agency by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to this section or Section 1517.(2) Subsequent foster family agency means a foster family agency to which a resource family has submitted an application for resource family approval pursuant to this section.(3) County means a county child welfare or probation department by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 5. Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1522. The Legislature recognizes the need to generate timely and accurate positive fingerprint identification of applicants as a condition of issuing licenses, permits, or certificates of approval for persons to operate or provide direct care services in a community care facility, foster family home, or a certified family home or resource family of a licensed foster family agency. Therefore, the Legislature supports the use of the fingerprint live-scan technology, as identified in the long-range plan of the Department of Justice for fully automating the processing of fingerprints and other data by the year 1999, otherwise known as the California Crime Information Intelligence System (CAL-CII), to be used for applicant fingerprints. It is the intent of the Legislature in enacting this section to require the fingerprints of those individuals whose contact with community care clients may pose a risk to the clients health and safety. An individual shall be required to obtain either a criminal record clearance or a criminal record exemption from the State Department of Social Services before the individuals initial presence in a community care facility or certified family home.(a) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or special permit to a person to operate or manage a community care facility, the State Department of Social Services shall secure from an appropriate law enforcement agency a criminal record to determine whether the applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5 of the Penal Code, subdivision (b) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons, and subsequent arrest information pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(3) The following shall apply to the criminal record information:(A) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial.(C) If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the applicant and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact.(D) If the State Department of Social Services finds, after licensure, that the licensee, or any other person specified in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license may be revoked, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(E) An applicant and any other person specified in subdivision (b) shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice for the purpose of searching the criminal records of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in addition to the criminal records search required by this subdivision. If an applicant and all other persons described in subdivision (b) meet all of the conditions for licensure, except receipt of the Federal Bureau of Investigations criminal offender record information search response for the applicant or any of the persons described in subdivision (b), the department may issue a license if the applicant and each person described in subdivision (b) has signed and submitted a statement that the person has never been convicted of a crime in the United States, other than a traffic infraction, as prescribed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 42001 of the Vehicle Code. If, after licensure, or the issuance of a certificate of approval of a certified family home by a foster family agency, the department determines that the licensee or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has a criminal record, the department may revoke the license, or require a foster family agency to revoke the certificate of approval, pursuant to Section 1550. The department may also suspend the license or require a foster family agency to suspend the certificate of approval pending an administrative hearing pursuant to Section 1550.5.(F) The State Department of Social Services shall develop procedures to provide the individuals state and federal criminal history information with the written notification of the individuals exemption denial or revocation based on the criminal record. Receipt of the criminal history information shall be optional on the part of the individual, as set forth in the agencys procedures. The procedure shall protect the confidentiality and privacy of the individuals record, and the criminal history information shall not be made available to the employer.(G) Notwithstanding any other law, the department is authorized to provide an individual with a copy of the individuals state or federal level criminal offender record information search response as provided to that department by the Department of Justice if the department has denied a criminal background clearance based on this information and the individual makes a written request to the department for a copy specifying an address to which it is to be sent. The state or federal level criminal offender record information search response shall not be modified or altered from its form or content as provided by the Department of Justice and shall be provided to the address specified by the individual in the individuals written request. The department shall retain a copy of the individuals written request and the response and date provided.(b) (1) In addition to the applicant, this section shall be applicable to criminal record clearances and exemptions for the following persons:(A) Adults responsible for administration or direct supervision of staff.(B) Any adult, other than a client, residing in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home.(C) Any person who provides client assistance in dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene. Any nurse assistant or home health aide meeting the requirements of Section 1338.5 or 1736.6, respectively, who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee, and who has been certified or recertified on or after July 1, 1998, shall be deemed to meet the criminal record clearance requirements of this section. A certified nurse assistant and certified home health aide who will be providing client assistance and who falls under this exemption shall provide one copy of their current certification, prior to providing care, to the community care facility. The facility shall maintain the copy of the certification on file as long as care is being provided by the certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide at the facility or in a certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency. This paragraph does not restrict the right of the department to exclude a certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide from a licensed community care facility or certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1558.(D) Any staff person, volunteer, or employee who has contact with the clients.(E) Any adult who works in a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child.(F) If the applicant is a firm, partnership, association, or corporation, the chief executive officer or other person serving in like capacity.(G) Additional officers of the governing body of the applicant, or other persons with a financial interest in the applicant, as determined necessary by the department by regulation. The criteria used in the development of these regulations shall be based on the persons capability to exercise substantial influence over the operation of the facility.(2) The following persons are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) A medical professional, as defined in department regulations, who holds a valid license or certification from the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity and who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee if all of the following apply:(i) The criminal record of the person has been cleared as a condition of licensure or certification by the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity.(ii) The person is providing time-limited specialized clinical care or services.(iii) The person is providing care or services within the persons scope of practice.(iv) The person is not a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility.(B) A third-party repair person or similar retained contractor if all of the following apply:(i) The person is hired for a defined, time-limited job.(ii) The person is not left alone with clients.(iii) When clients are present in the room in which the repair person or contractor is working, a staff person who has a criminal record clearance or exemption is also present.(C) Employees of a licensed home health agency and other members of licensed hospice interdisciplinary teams who have a contract with a client or resident of the facility, certified family home, or resource family home and are in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home at the request of that client or residents legal decisionmaker. The exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility.(D) Clergy and other spiritual caregivers who are performing services in common areas of the community care facility, certified family home, or resource family home or who are advising an individual client at the request of, or with the permission of, the client or legal decisionmaker, are exempt from fingerprint and criminal background check requirements imposed by community care licensing. This exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care licensee or employee of the facility.(E) Members of fraternal, service, or similar organizations who conduct group activities for clients if all of the following apply:(i) Members are not left alone with clients.(ii) Members do not transport clients off the facility, certified family home, or resource family home premises.(iii) The same organization does not conduct group activities for clients more often than defined by the departments regulations.(3) In addition to the exemptions in paragraph (2), the following persons in foster family homes, resource family homes, certified family homes, and small family homes are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) Adult friends and family of the foster parent, who come into the home to visit for a length of time no longer than defined by the department in regulations, provided that the adult friends and family of the foster parent are not left alone with the foster children. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 362.04 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, may allow adult friends and family to provide short-term care to the foster child and act as an appropriate occasional short-term babysitter for the child.(B) Parents of a foster childs friend when the foster child is visiting the friends home and the friend, foster parent, or both are also present. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, may allow the parent of the foster childs friend to act as an appropriate, occasional short-term babysitter for the child without the friend being present.(C) Individuals who are engaged by a foster parent to provide short-term care to the child for periods not to exceed 24 hours. Caregivers shall use a reasonable and prudent parent standard in selecting appropriate individuals to act as appropriate occasional short-term babysitters.(4) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult day care and adult day support centers are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) Unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and service plan, a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to the client.(B) A volunteer if all of the following apply:(i) The volunteer is supervised by the licensee or a facility employee with a criminal record clearance or exemption.(ii) The volunteer is never left alone with clients.(iii) The volunteer does not provide any client assistance with dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene other than washing of hands.(5) (A) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult residential and social rehabilitation facilities, unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and services plan, are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1): a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to that client.(B) This subdivision does not prevent a licensee from requiring a criminal record clearance of any individual exempt from the requirements of this section, provided that the individual has client contact.(6) Any person similar to those described in this subdivision, as defined by the department in regulations.(c) (1) Subsequent to initial licensure, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempted from fingerprinting shall obtain either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) from the State Department of Social Services prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the facility. A person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall be fingerprinted and shall sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions. The licensee shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). These fingerprint images and related information shall be sent by electronic transmission in a manner approved by the State Department of Social Services and the Department of Justice for the purpose of obtaining a permanent set of fingerprints, and shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the licensee. A licensees failure to prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in the citation of a deficiency and the immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images and related information shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed stamped postcard for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints.(2) Within 14 calendar days of the receipt of the fingerprint images, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services of the criminal record information, as provided in subdivision (a). If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the licensee and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact within 14 calendar days of receipt of the fingerprint images. Documentation of the individuals clearance or exemption from disqualification shall be maintained by the licensee and be available for inspection. If new fingerprint images are required for processing, the Department of Justice shall, within 14 calendar days from the date of receipt of the fingerprints, notify the licensee that the fingerprints were illegible, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services, as required by Section 1522.04, and shall also notify the licensee by mail, within 14 days of electronic transmission of the fingerprints to the Department of Justice, if the person has no criminal history recorded. A violation of the regulations adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548.(3) Except for persons specified in subdivision (b) who are exempt from fingerprinting, the licensee shall endeavor to ascertain the previous employment history of persons required to be fingerprinted. If it is determined by the State Department of Social Services, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the State Department of Social Services shall notify the licensee to act immediately to terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility. The State Department of Social Services may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, except a minor traffic violation, the licensee shall, upon notification by the State Department of Social Services, act immediately to either (A) terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility; or (B) seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the facility until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered. A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by this paragraph shall result in a citation of deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(4) The department may issue an exemption from disqualification on its own motion pursuant to subdivision (g) if the persons criminal history indicates that the person is of good character based on the age, seriousness, and frequency of the conviction or convictions. The department, in consultation with interested parties, shall develop regulations to establish the criteria to grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to this paragraph.(5) Concurrently with notifying the licensee pursuant to paragraph (3), the department shall notify the affected individual of the right to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The individual may seek an exemption from disqualification only if the licensee terminates the persons employment or removes the person from the facility after receiving notice from the department pursuant to paragraph (3).(d) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or certificate of approval to any person or persons to operate a foster family home, certified family home as described in Section 1506, or resource family pursuant to Section 1517 of this code or Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall secure California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal history information to determine whether the applicant or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting has ever been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in subdivision (c) of Section 290 of the Penal Code, for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, subdivision (b) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall not issue a license or certificate of approval to any foster family home, certified family home, or resource family applicant who has not obtained both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g).(2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons.(3) Neither the Department of Justice nor the State Department of Social Services may charge a fee for the fingerprinting of an applicant for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval described in this subdivision. The record, if any, shall be taken into consideration when evaluating a prospective applicant.(4) The following shall apply to the criminal record information:(A) If the applicant or other persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting have convictions that would make the applicants home unfit as a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family, the license, special permit, certificate of approval, or presence shall be denied.(B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial.(C) For purposes of this subdivision, a criminal record clearance provided under Section 8712 of the Family Code may be used by the department or other approving authority.(D) To the same extent required for federal funding, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall submit a set of fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, in addition to the criminal records search required by subdivision (a).(5) Any person specified in this subdivision shall, as a part of the application, be fingerprinted and sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions or arrests for any crime against a child, spousal or cohabitant abuse, or any crime for which the department cannot grant an exemption if the person was convicted and shall submit these fingerprints to the licensing agency or other approving authority.(6) (A) Subsequent to initial licensure, certification, or approval, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall obtain both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance, or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the foster family home, certified family home, or resource family home. A foster family home licensee or foster family agency shall submit fingerprint images and related information of persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). A foster family home licensees or a foster family agencys failure to either prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in a citation of a deficiency, and the immediate civil penalties of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. A violation of the regulation adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550. The State Department of Social Services may assess penalties for continued violations, as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing.(B) Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints. Within five working days of the receipt of the criminal record or information regarding criminal convictions from the Department of Justice, the department shall notify the applicant of any criminal arrests or convictions. If no arrests or convictions are recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency with a statement of that fact concurrent with providing the information to the State Department of Social Services.(7) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application or presence shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g).(8) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds, after licensure or the granting of the certificate of approval, that the licensee, certified foster parent, resource family, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license or certificate of approval may be revoked or rescinded by the department or the foster family agency, whichever is applicable, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(e) (1) The State Department of Social Services shall not use a record of arrest to deny, revoke, rescind, or terminate any application, license, certificate of approval, employment, or residence unless the department investigates the incident and secures evidence, whether or not related to the incident of arrest, that is admissible in an administrative hearing to establish conduct by the person that may pose a risk to the health and safety of any person who is or may become a client.(2) The department shall not issue a criminal record clearance to a person who has been arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, or subdivision (b) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to the completion of an investigation pursuant to paragraph (1).(3) The State Department of Social Services is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties to inspect, license, and investigate community care facilities and individuals associated with a community care facility.(f) (1) For purposes of this chapter, a conviction means a plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere. Any action that the State Department of Social Services is permitted to take following the establishment of a conviction may be taken when the time for appeal has elapsed, when the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal, or when an order granting probation is made suspending the imposition of sentence, notwithstanding a subsequent order pursuant to Sections 1203.4 and 1203.4a of the Penal Code permitting the person to withdraw a plea of guilty and to enter a plea of not guilty, or setting aside the verdict of guilty, or dismissing the accusation, information, or indictment. For purposes of this chapter, the record of a conviction, or a copy thereof certified by the clerk of the court or by a judge of the court in which the conviction occurred, shall be conclusive evidence of the conviction. For purposes of this chapter, the arrest disposition report certified by the Department of Justice, or documents admissible in a criminal action pursuant to Section 969b of the Penal Code, shall be prima facie evidence of the conviction, notwithstanding any other law prohibiting the admission of these documents in a civil or administrative action.(2) For purposes of this chapter, the department shall consider criminal convictions from another state or federal court as if the criminal offense was committed in this state.(g) (1) Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision with respect to a foster care provider applicant, including a relative caregiver, nonrelative extended family member, or resource family, after review of the record, the department may grant an exemption from disqualification for a license or special permit as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a), or for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval as specified in paragraphs (4), (7), and (8) of subdivision (d), or for employment, residence, or presence in a community care facility as specified in paragraphs (3), (4), and (5) of subdivision (c), if the department has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant and the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, are of good character as to justify issuance of the license or special permit or granting an exemption for purposes of subdivision (c). Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision, an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision if the conviction was for any of the following offenses:(A) (i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the department may grant an exemption regarding the conviction for an offense described in paragraph (1), (2), (7), or (8) of subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code, if the employee or prospective employee has been rehabilitated as provided in Section 4852.03 of the Penal Code, has maintained the conduct required in Section 4852.05 of the Penal Code for at least 10 years, and has the recommendation of the district attorney representing the employees county of residence, or if the employee or prospective employee has received a certificate of rehabilitation pursuant to Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 4852.01) of Title 6 of Part 3 of the Penal Code.(B) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code.(C) (i) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (A), an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any applicant for licensure of a community care facility eligible to accept placement of a dependent child if either that applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is associated with the facility has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses:(I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subclause, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A) or subparagraph (B).(II) A felony conviction for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense that occurred within the last five years.(ii) This subparagraph shall be operative to the extent that compliance with these provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.).(2) (A) For a foster care provider applicant, a resource family applicant, or a prospective respite care provider, as described in Section 16501.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, an exemption shall not be granted if that applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, has a conviction for any of the following offenses:(i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code.(ii) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code.(iii) Under no circumstances shall an exemption be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any foster care provider applicant if that applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) in those homes, has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses:(I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subparagraph, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A), or clause (ii) of this subparagraph.(II) A felony conviction, within the last five years, for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense.(III) This clause shall not apply to licenses or approvals wherein a caregiver was granted an exemption to a criminal conviction described in clause (i) prior to the enactment of this clause.(IV) This clause shall remain operative only to the extent that compliance with its provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.).(B) The department or other approving entity may grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider, resource family applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, if the department or other approving entity has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption and the conviction is for one of the following offenses:(i) (I) Any misdemeanor conviction within the last five years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A).(II) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a misdemeanor conviction for statutory rape, as defined in Section 261.5 of the Penal Code, a misdemeanor conviction for indecent exposure, as defined in Section 314 of the Penal Code, or a misdemeanor conviction for financial abuse against an elder, as defined in Section 368 of the Penal Code, shall be eligible for the consideration of an exemption as set forth in subparagraph (C).(ii) Any felony conviction within the last seven years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A).(C) When granting an exemption for a crime listed in subparagraph (B), the department or other approving entity shall consider all reasonably available information, including, but not limited to, the following:(i) The nature of the crime or crimes.(ii) The period of time since the crime was committed.(iii) The number of offenses.(iv) Circumstances surrounding the commission of the crime indicating the likelihood of future criminal activity.(v) Activities since conviction, including employment, participation in therapy, education, or treatment.(vi) Whether the person convicted has successfully completed probation or parole, obtained a certificate of rehabilitation, or been granted a pardon by the Governor.(vii) Any character references or other evidence submitted by the applicant.(viii) Whether the person convicted demonstrated honesty and truthfulness concerning the crime or crimes during the application and approval process and made reasonable efforts to assist the department in obtaining records and documents concerning the crime or crimes.(D) (i) The department or other approving entity shall grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider applicant, resource family applicant, or any person subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, who has been convicted of an offense not listed in subparagraph (A) or (B), if the individuals state and federal criminal history information received from the Department of Justice independently supports a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption.(ii) Notwithstanding the fact that an individual meets the criteria described in clause (i), the department or other approving entity, at its discretion, as necessary to protect the health and safety of a child, may evaluate a person described in clause (i), for purposes of making an exemption decision, pursuant to the criteria described in subparagraphs (B) and (C).(E) This paragraph shall not apply to licenses or approvals for which a caregiver was granted an exemption for a criminal conviction prior to January 1, 2018.(3) The department shall not prohibit a person from being employed or having contact with clients in a facility, certified family home, or resource family home on the basis of a denied criminal record exemption request or arrest information unless the department complies with the requirements of Section 1558 of this code or Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, as applicable.(h) (1) For purposes of compliance with this section, the department may permit an individual to transfer a current criminal record clearance, as defined in subdivision (a), from one facility to another, as long as the criminal record clearance has been processed through a state licensing district office, and is being transferred to another facility licensed by a state licensing district office. The request shall be in writing to the State Department of Social Services, and shall include a copy of the persons drivers license or valid identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, or a valid photo identification issued by another state or the United States government if the person is not a California resident. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the State Department of Social Services shall verify whether the individual has a clearance that can be transferred.(2) The State Department of Social Services shall hold criminal record clearances in its active files for a minimum of three years after an employee is no longer employed at a licensed facility in order for the criminal record clearance to be transferred.(3) A criminal record clearance or exemption processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority shall be accepted by the department or county upon notification of transfer.(4) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 concerning an individual whose criminal record clearance was originally processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, all of the following shall apply:(A) The Department of Justice shall process a request from the department or a county to receive the notice only if all of the following conditions are met:(i) The request shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the agency to be substituted to receive the notification.(ii) The request shall be for the same applicant type as the type for which the original clearance was obtained.(iii) The request shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(B) (i) On or before January 7, 2005, the department shall notify the Department of Justice of all county offices that have department-delegated licensing authority.(ii) The department shall notify the Department of Justice within 15 calendar days of the date on which a new county office receives department-delegated licensing authority or a countys delegated licensing authority is rescinded.(C) The Department of Justice shall charge the department, a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, or a county child welfare agency with criminal record clearance and exemption authority, a fee for each time a request to substitute the recipient agency is received for purposes of this paragraph. This fee shall not exceed the cost of providing the service.(i) The full criminal record obtained for purposes of this section may be used by the department or by a licensed adoption agency as a clearance required for adoption purposes.(j) If a licensee or facility is required by law to deny employment or to terminate employment of any employee based on written notification from the department that the employee has a prior criminal conviction or is determined unsuitable for employment under Section 1558, the licensee or facility shall not incur civil liability or unemployment insurance liability as a result of that denial or termination.(k) The State Department of Social Services may charge a reasonable fee for the costs of processing electronic fingerprint images and related information.SEC. 6. Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1522.1. (a) Prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any individual to care for or reside with children, the department shall check the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 11170 of the Penal Code. The Department of Justice shall maintain and continually update an index of reports of child abuse by providers and shall inform the department of subsequent reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 11170 of the Penal Code and the criminal history. The department shall investigate any reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index. The investigation shall include, but not be limited to, the review of the investigation report and file prepared by the child protective agency which investigated the child abuse report. Licensure or approval shall not be denied based upon a report from the Child Abuse Central Index unless child abuse or severe neglect is substantiated.(b) For any application received on or after January 1, 2008, if any prospective foster parent, or adoptive parent, or any person 18 years of age or older residing in their household, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the licensing agency or licensed adoption agency shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a). The department, in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California, shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect.(c) If any person in the household is 18 years of age or older and has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department or its designated representative shall check the other states child abuse and neglect registry to the same extent required for federal funding, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a), prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any foster family home, certified family home, resource family, or person for whom an adoption home study is conducted or who has filed to adopt.(d) If any licensee of a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child or any associated individual, as described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 1522, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to the Child Abuse Central Index as specified in subdivision (a). The department shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect.SEC. 7. Section 1527 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527. As used in this article:(a) Aircraft includes, but is not limited to, any airplane, glider, or hot air balloon.(b) Bodily injury means any bodily injury, sickness, or disease sustained by any person including death at any time resulting therefrom.(c) Foster child means a person under 19 years of age who has been placed in the care and supervision of licensed foster parents or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(d) (1) Foster parent means the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child in a licensed foster family home or licensed small family home, as defined in Section 1502, or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) On or after January 1, 2020, foster parent shall also mean the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child placed in a tribally approved home by a county child welfare agency, county probation agency, or an Indian tribe that has entered into an agreement pursuant to Section 10553.1 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(e) Occurrence means an accident, including continuous or repeated exposure to conditions, which results in bodily injury or personal injury neither expected nor intended by the foster parent. Multiple incidents of a general course of conduct shall be considered one occurrence, regardless of the period of time during which the acts transpired.(f) Motor vehicle means an automobile, motorcycle, moped, midget automobile, including the type commonly referred to as a kart, go-kart, speedmobile, or by a comparable name whether commercially built or otherwise, trailer or semitrailer designed for travel on public roads, including any machinery or apparatus attached thereto, or snowmobile.(g) Personal injury means any injury to the feelings or reputation of any person or organization arising out of libel, slander, defamation, or disparagement, wrongful eviction, or entry.(h) Property damage means any physical injury to, or destruction of, tangible property, including the loss of use thereof at any time resulting therefrom.(i) Watercraft includes, but is not limited to, any boat, ship, raft, or canoe, whether motorized or not.SEC. 8. Section 1527.1 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.1. There is hereby established the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund within the State Department of Social Services. The fund shall consist of all moneys appropriated by the Legislature. The department may contract with another state agency to set up and operate the fund and perform other administrative functions that may be necessary to carry out the intentions of this article. The purpose of the fund is to pay, on behalf of foster family homes and small family homes, as defined in Section 1502, on or after January 1, 2019, resource families, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem resulting from occurrences peculiar to the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services. The fund may sue and be sued.SEC. 9. Section 1527.2 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.2. The fund, subject to this article, shall pay, on behalf of foster family homes, small family homes, on and after January 1, 2019, resource families, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, any claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem for damages arising from, and peculiar to, the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services, or shall reimburse foster family homes, small family homes, and resource families for those damages.SEC. 10. Section 1527.4 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.4. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, the fund shall not be liable for damages in excess of three hundred thousand dollars ($300,000) for any single foster family home, small family home, on and after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, for all claims arising due to one or more occurrences during any consecutive 12-month period. The fund shall be liable only once for damages arising from one occurrence.SEC. 11. Section 1527.5 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.5. The fund shall be liable, if a claim is approved, to pay on behalf of each licensed foster family home, small family home, on or after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved home, all sums which the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home is obligated to pay as a result of a valid claim of bodily injury or personal injury arising out of the activities of a foster parent or foster parents, which occurs while the foster child resides in the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home. Claims specified in this section of a foster child or a parent, guardian, or guardian ad litem of a foster child shall be the sole responsibility of the fund.SEC. 12. Section 1558 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1558. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility or certified family home, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility or certified family home by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either the people of this state or an individual in, or receiving services from, the facility or certified family home.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility or certified family home, when that person has been convicted of a crime, as defined in Section 1522.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee or certified family home.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility or certified family home, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services.(b) The excluded person, the facility or certified family home, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do both of the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code by the excluded person to conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility or certified family home shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the director has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the director fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility or certified family home, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility or certified family home.(g) A licensees or certified family homes failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) Notwithstanding paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) or subdivision (c) of Section 1550, the department shall take reasonable action, including, but not limited to, prohibiting a person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee of a licensed facility or certified family home, or denying an application for, or suspending or revoking, a license, special permit, certificate of approval, or administrator certificate, issued under this chapter, or denying a transfer of a license pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 1524, upon a finding of a violation of subdivision (i) of Section 11166 of the Penal Code.(j) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 13. Section 1562.02 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1562.02. (a) The department may license a short-term residential therapeutic program operating as a childrens crisis residential program pursuant to this chapter. A childrens crisis residential program shall meet all of the following requirements:(1) If the program serves both children who are not experiencing mental health crises and children who are experiencing mental health crises, the program shall have an identifiable and physically separate unit for those children who are experiencing mental health crises. The separate unit shall be indicated on the short-term residential therapeutic programs license.(2) If the short-term residential therapeutic program operates on a single site both a program that serves children who are not experiencing mental health crises and a separate program that only serves children experiencing mental health crises, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, both of which are issued by the State Department of Health Care Services, or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval.(3) If the short-term residential therapeutic program serves only children experiencing a mental health crisis, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which is issued by the State Department of Health Care Services or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval.(4) Comply with all applicable licensing standards for a short-term residential therapeutic program, unless the department specifies otherwise in regulations that comply with applicable statutory requirements related to licensure.(b) Contingent upon an appropriation in the annual Budget Act for these purposes, the department shall begin implementation of this section no later than July 1, 2018, and shall commence the licensing process for childrens crisis residential programs no later than January 1, 2019.SEC. 14. Section 1568.092 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1568.092. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, aided, or permitted the violation by any other person of this chapter or of any rules or regulations adopted under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, welfare, or safety of either an individual, in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1568.09.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the action of the department and of the right to an appeal of the excluded person. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the action of the department shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of an executive director, a board member, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1568.082.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 15. Section 1569.58 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1569.58. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a licensee, owning a beneficial ownership interest of 10 percent or more in a licensed facility, or being an administrator, officer, director, member, or manager of a licensee or entity controlling a licensee, and may further prohibit any licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client and who has done any of the following:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1569.17.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1569.50.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 16. Section 1596.8897 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1596.8897. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1596.871.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the employee or prospective employee pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, the executive director, or an officer of a licensee prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1596.885 or 1596.886.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.SEC. 17. Section 11172 of the Penal Code is amended to read:11172. (a) No mandated reporter shall be civilly or criminally liable for any report required or authorized by this article, and this immunity shall apply even if the mandated reporter acquired the knowledge or reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect outside of their professional capacity or outside the scope of their employment. Any other person reporting a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of any report authorized by this article unless it can be proven that a false report was made and the person knew that the report was false or was made with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report, and any person who makes a report of child abuse or neglect known to be false or with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report is liable for any damages caused. No person required to make a report pursuant to this article, nor any person taking photographs at their direction, shall incur any civil or criminal liability for taking photographs of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, or causing photographs to be taken of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, without parental consent, or for disseminating the photographs, images, or material with the reports required by this article. However, this section shall not be construed to grant immunity from this liability with respect to any other use of the photographs.(b) Any person, who, pursuant to a request from a government agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the requesting agency with access to the victim of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that access.(c) Any commercial computer technician, and any employer of any commercial computer technician, who, pursuant to a warrant from a law enforcement agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the law enforcement agency with a computer or computer component which contains possible evidence of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that computer or computer component to the law enforcement agency.(d) Any person who, in good faith, provides information or assistance, including medical evaluations or consultations, to an agency specified in Section 11165.9, in connection with a report, investigation, or legal intervention pursuant to a good faith report of child abuse or neglect under this article, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that information or assistance. This subdivision does not grant immunity from liability for an individual who is suspected of committing abuse or neglect of the child who is the subject of the report.(e) (1) The Legislature finds that even though it has provided immunity from liability to persons required or authorized to make reports pursuant to this article, that immunity does not eliminate the possibility that actions may be brought against those persons based upon required or authorized reports. In order to further limit the financial hardship that those persons may incur as a result of fulfilling their legal responsibilities, it is necessary that they not be unfairly burdened by legal fees incurred in defending those actions. Therefore, a mandated reporter may present a claim to the Department of General Services for reasonable attorneys fees and costs incurred in any action against that person on the basis of making a report required or authorized by this article if the court has dismissed the action upon a demurrer or motion for summary judgment made by that person, or if they prevail in the action. The Department of General Services shall allow that claim if the requirements of this subdivision are met, and the claim shall be paid from an appropriation to be made for that purpose. Attorneys fees awarded pursuant to this section shall not exceed an hourly rate greater than the rate charged by the Attorney General of the State of California at the time the award is made and shall not exceed an aggregate amount of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000).(2) This subdivision shall not apply if a public entity has provided for the defense of the action pursuant to Section 995 of the Government Code.(f) A court may award attorneys fees and costs to a commercial film and photographic print processor when a suit is brought against the processor because of a disclosure mandated by this article and the court finds this suit to be frivolous.SEC. 18. Section 366.3 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:366.3. (a) (1) If a juvenile court orders a permanent plan of adoption, tribal customary adoption, adoption of a nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31, or legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, the court shall retain jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent until the child or nonminor dependent is adopted or the legal guardianship is established, except as provided for in Section 366.29 or, on and after January 1, 2012, Section 366.32. The status of the child or nonminor dependent shall be reviewed every six months to ensure that the adoption or legal guardianship is completed as expeditiously as possible. Following a termination of parental rights, the parent or parents shall not be a party to, or receive notice of, any subsequent proceedings regarding the child.(2) When the adoption of the child or nonminor dependent has been granted, or in the case of a tribal customary adoption, when the tribal customary adoption order has been afforded full faith and credit and the petition for adoption has been granted, the court shall terminate its jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent.(3) Following establishment of a legal guardianship, the court may continue jurisdiction over the child as a dependent child of the juvenile court or may terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the legal guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4. If, however, a relative or nonrelative extended family member of the child is appointed the legal guardian of the child and the guardians home has been approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 for at least six months, the court shall, except if the relative or nonrelative extended family member guardian objects, or upon a finding of exceptional circumstances, terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4.(b) (1) If the court has dismissed dependency jurisdiction following the establishment of a legal guardianship, or no dependency jurisdiction attached because of the granting of a legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360, and the legal guardianship is subsequently revoked or otherwise terminated, the county department of social services or welfare department shall notify the juvenile court of this fact. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child.(2) Notwithstanding Section 1601 of the Probate Code, the proceedings to terminate a legal guardianship that has been granted pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26 shall be held either in the juvenile court that retains jurisdiction over the guardianship as authorized by Section 366.4 or the juvenile court in the county where the guardian and child currently reside, based on the best interests of the child, unless the termination is due to the emancipation or adoption of the child. The juvenile court having jurisdiction over the guardianship shall receive notice from the court in which the petition is filed within five calendar days of the filing. Prior to the hearing on a petition to terminate legal guardianship pursuant to this subdivision, the court shall order the county department of social services or welfare department having jurisdiction or jointly with the county department where the guardian and child currently reside to prepare a report, for the courts consideration, that shall include an evaluation of whether the child could safely remain in, or be returned to, the legal guardians home, without terminating the legal guardianship, if services were provided to the child or legal guardian. If applicable, the report shall also identify recommended family maintenance or reunification services to maintain the legal guardianship and set forth a plan for providing those services. If the petition to terminate legal guardianship is granted, either juvenile court may resume dependency jurisdiction over the child, and may order the county department of social services or welfare department to develop a new permanent plan, which shall be presented to the court within 60 days of the termination. If no dependency jurisdiction has attached, the social worker shall make any investigation the social worker deems necessary to determine whether the child may be within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, as provided in Section 328.(3) Unless the parental rights of the childs parent or parents have been terminated, they shall be notified that the legal guardianship has been revoked or terminated and shall be entitled to participate in the new permanency planning hearing. The court shall try to place the child in another permanent placement. At the hearing, the parents may be considered as custodians but the child shall not be returned to the parent or parents unless they prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that reunification is the best alternative for the child. The court may, if it is in the best interests of the child, order that reunification services again be provided to the parent or parents.(c) If, following the establishment of a legal guardianship, the county welfare department becomes aware of changed circumstances that indicate adoption or, for an Indian child, tribal customary adoption, may be an appropriate plan for the child, the department shall so notify the court. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child and order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26 to determine whether adoption or continued legal guardianship is the most appropriate plan for the child. The hearing shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the order. If the court orders that a hearing shall be held pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services if it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment under subdivision (b) of Section 366.22.(d) If the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent is in a placement other than the home of a legal guardian and jurisdiction has not been dismissed, the status of the child shall be reviewed at least every six months. The review of the status of a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption shall be conducted by the court. The review of the status of a child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent for whom the court has not ordered parental rights terminated and who has not been ordered placed for adoption may be conducted by the court or an appropriate local agency. The court shall conduct the review under the following circumstances:(1) Upon the request of the childs parents or legal guardians.(2) Upon the request of the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent.(3) It has been 12 months since a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 or an order that the child remain in foster care pursuant to Section 366.21, 366.22, 366.25, 366.26, or subdivision (h).(4) It has been 12 months since a review was conducted by the court.The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.(e) Except as provided in subdivision (g), at the review held every six months pursuant to subdivision (d), the reviewing body shall inquire about the progress being made to provide a permanent home for the child, shall consider the safety of the child, and shall determine all of the following:(1) The continuing necessity for, and appropriateness of, the placement.(2) Identification of individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to a child who is 10 years of age or older and has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer, and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The social worker shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer to identify individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to the child, and may ask any other child to provide that information, as appropriate. The social worker shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interests.(3) The continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the permanent plan for the child, including efforts to maintain relationships between a child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer and individuals who are important to the child and efforts to identify a prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange.(4) The extent of the agencys compliance with the child welfare services case plan in making reasonable efforts either to return the child to the safe home of the parent or to complete whatever steps are necessary to finalize the permanent placement of the child. If the reviewing body determines that a second period of reunification services is in the childs best interests, and that there is a significant likelihood of the childs return to a safe home due to changed circumstances of the parent, pursuant to subdivision (f), the specific reunification services required to effect the childs return to a safe home shall be described.(5) Whether there should be any limitation on the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child. That limitation shall be specifically addressed in the court order and may not exceed what is necessary to protect the child. If the court specifically limits the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child, the court shall at the same time appoint a responsible adult to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child pursuant to Section 361.(6) The adequacy of services provided to the child. The court shall consider the progress in providing the information and documents to the child, as described in Section 391. The court shall also consider the need for, and progress in providing, the assistance and services described in Section 391.(7) The extent of progress the parents or legal guardians have made toward alleviating or mitigating the causes necessitating placement in foster care.(8) The likely date by which the child may be returned to, and safely maintained in, the home, placed for adoption, legal guardianship, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or, if the child is 16 years of age or older, and no other permanent plan is appropriate at the time of the hearing, in another planned permanent living arrangement.(9) Whether the child has any siblings under the courts jurisdiction, and, if any siblings exist, all of the following:(A) The nature of the relationship between the child and their siblings.(B) The appropriateness of developing or maintaining the sibling relationships pursuant to Section 16002. At the first review conducted for a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, the court shall inquire into the status of the development of a voluntary postadoption sibling contact agreement pursuant to subdivision (e) of Section 16002.(C) If the siblings are not placed together in the same home, why the siblings are not placed together and what efforts are being made to place the siblings together, or why those efforts are not appropriate.(D) If the siblings are not placed together, all of the following:(i) The frequency and nature of the visits between the siblings.(ii) If there are visits between the siblings, whether the visits are supervised or unsupervised. If the visits are supervised, a discussion of the reasons why the visits are supervised, and what needs to be accomplished in order for the visits to be unsupervised.(iii) If there are visits between the siblings, a description of the location and length of the visits.(iv) Any plan to increase visitation between the siblings.(E) The impact of the sibling relationships on the childs placement and planning for legal permanence.The factors the court may consider as indicators of the nature of the childs sibling relationships include, but are not limited to, whether the siblings were raised together in the same home, whether the siblings have shared significant common experiences or have existing close and strong bonds, whether either sibling expresses a desire to visit or live with their sibling, as applicable, and whether ongoing contact is in the childs best emotional interests.(10) For a child who is 14 years of age or older, and, effective January 1, 2012, for a nonminor dependent, the services needed to assist the child or nonminor dependent to make the transition from foster care to successful adulthood.The reviewing body shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.Each licensed foster family agency shall submit reports for each child in its care, custody, and control to the court concerning the continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the childs permanent plan, the extent of compliance with the case plan, and the type and adequacy of services provided to the child.(f) Unless their parental rights have been permanently terminated, the parent or parents of the child are entitled to receive notice of, and participate in, those hearings. It shall be presumed that continued care is in the best interests of the child, unless the parent or parents prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that further efforts at reunification are the best alternative for the child. In those cases, the court may order that further reunification services to return the child to a safe home environment be provided to the parent or parents up to a period of six months, and family maintenance services, as needed for an additional six months in order to return the child to a safe home environment. On and after January 1, 2012, this subdivision shall not apply to the parents of a nonminor dependent.(g) At the review conducted by the court and held at least every six months, regarding a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child for whom parental rights are not being terminated and a tribal customary adoption is being considered, the county welfare department shall prepare and present to the court a report describing the following:(1) The childs present placement.(2) The childs current physical, mental, emotional, and educational status.(3) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or guardian, identification of individuals, other than the childs siblings, who are important to the child and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The agency shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older to identify any individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interest, and may ask any child who is younger than 10 years of age to provide that information as appropriate. The agency shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child.(4) Whether the child has been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents.(5) Whether an adoptive placement agreement has been signed and filed.(6) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents, the efforts made to identify an appropriate prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange.(7) Whether the final adoption order should include provisions for postadoptive sibling contact pursuant to Section 366.29.(8) The progress of the search for an adoptive placement if one has not been identified.(9) Any impediments to the adoption or the adoptive placement.(10) The anticipated date by which the child will be adopted or placed in an adoptive home.(11) The anticipated date by which an adoptive placement agreement will be signed.(12) Recommendations for court orders that will assist in the placement of the child for adoption or in the finalization of the adoption.The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.The court shall make appropriate orders to protect the stability of the child and to facilitate and expedite the permanent placement and adoption of the child.(h) (1) At the review held pursuant to subdivision (d) for a child in foster care, the court shall consider all permanency planning options for the child including whether the child should be returned to the home of the parent, placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or appointed a legal guardian, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, if compelling reasons exist for finding that none of the foregoing options are in the best interest of the child and the child is 16 years of age or older, whether the child should be placed in another planned permanent living arrangement. The court shall order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26, unless it determines by clear and convincing evidence that there is a compelling reason for determining that a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 is not in the best interest of the child because the child is being returned to the home of the parent, the child is not a proper subject for adoption, or no one is willing to accept legal guardianship as of the hearing date. If the county adoption agency, or the department when it is acting as an adoption agency, has determined it is unlikely that the child will be adopted or one of the conditions described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c) of Section 366.26 applies, that fact shall constitute a compelling reason for purposes of this subdivision. Only upon that determination may the court order that the child remain in foster care, without holding a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26. The court shall make factual findings identifying any barriers to achieving the permanent plan as of the hearing date. On and after January 1, 2012, the nonminor dependents legal status as an adult is in and of itself a compelling reason not to hold a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26.(2) When the child is 16 years of age or older and in another planned permanent living arrangement, the court shall do all of the following:(A) Ask the child about their desired permanency outcome.(B) Make a judicial determination explaining why, as of the hearing date, another planned permanent living arrangement is the best permanency plan for the child.(C) State for the record the compelling reason or reasons why it continues not to be in the best interest of the child to return home, be placed for adoption, be placed for tribal customary adoption in the case of an Indian child, be placed with a legal guardian, or be placed with a fit and willing relative.(3) When the child is 16 years of age or older and is in another planned permanent living arrangement, the social study prepared for the hearing shall include a description of all of the following:(A) The intensive and ongoing efforts to return the child to the home of the parent, place the child for adoption, or establish a legal guardianship, as appropriate.(B) The steps taken to do both of the following:(i) Ensure that the childs care provider is following the reasonable and prudent parent standard.(ii) Determine whether the child has regular, ongoing opportunities to engage in age or developmentally appropriate activities, including consulting with the child about opportunities for the child to participate in those activities.(4) When the child is under 16 years of age and has a permanent plan of return home, adoption, legal guardianship, or placement with a fit and willing relative, the social study shall include a description of any barriers to achieving the permanent plan and the efforts made by the agency to address those barriers.(i) If, as authorized by subdivision (h), the court orders a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services when it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment as provided for in subdivision (i) of Section 366.21 or subdivision (b) of Section 366.22. A hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the 12-month review at which it is ordered, and at that hearing the court shall determine whether adoption, tribal customary adoption, legal guardianship, placement with a fit and willing relative, or, for a child 16 years of age or older, another planned permanent living arrangement is the most appropriate plan for the child. On and after January 1, 2012, a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26 shall not be ordered if the child is a nonminor dependent, unless the nonminor dependent is an Indian child and tribal customary adoption is recommended as the permanent plan. The court may order that a nonminor dependent who otherwise is eligible pursuant to Section 11403 remain in a planned, permanent living arrangement. At the request of the nonminor dependent who has an established relationship with an adult determined to be the nonminor dependents permanent connection, the court may order adoption of the nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31.(j) The reviews conducted pursuant to subdivision (a) or (d) may be conducted earlier than every six months if the court determines that an earlier review is in the best interests of the child or as court rules prescribe.SEC. 19. Section 727.05 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, immediately following Section 727, to read:727.05. (a) Notwithstanding paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 727, the probation agency may make an emergency placement of a minor ordered into its care, custody, and control with a relative or nonrelative extended family member.(b) Prior to making the emergency placement, the probation agency shall do all of the following:(1) Conduct an in-home inspection to assess the safety of the home and the ability of the relative or nonrelative extended family member to care for the minors needs.(2) Ensure that a state-level criminal records check is conducted by an appropriate government agency through the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) pursuant to Section 16504.5 for all of the following:(A) Any person over 18 years of age living in the home of the relative or nonrelative extended family member who seeks emergency placement of the minor, excluding any person who is a nonminor dependent, as defined in subdivision (v) of Section 11400.(B) At the discretion of the probation agency, any person over 18 years of age known to the agency to be regularly present in the home, other than any professional providing professional services to the minor.(C) At the discretion of the agency, any person over 14 years of age living in the home who the agency believes may have a criminal record, excluding any child who is under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court.(3) Conduct a check of allegations of prior child abuse or neglect concerning the relative or nonrelative extended family member and other adults in the home.(c) (1) If the CLETS information that is obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has no criminal record, the probation agency may place the minor in the home on an emergency basis.(2) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (D) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home unless a criminal records exemption has been granted using the exemption criteria specified in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) Notwithstanding paragraph (2), a minor may be placed on an emergency basis if the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense not described in subclause (II) of clause (i) of subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pending a criminal records exemption decision based on live scan fingerprint results if all of the following conditions are met:(A) The conviction does not involve an offense against a child.(B) The chief probation officer, or their designee, determines that the placement is in the best interests of the minor.(C) No party to the case objects to the placement.(4) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been arrested for any offense described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed on an emergency basis in the home until the investigation required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code has been completed and the chief probation officer, or their designee, and the court have considered the investigation results when determining whether the placement is in the best interests of the child.(5) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home on an emergency basis.(d) If the relative or nonrelative extended family member has not submitted an application for approval as a resource family at the time of the emergency placement, the probation agency shall require the relative or nonrelative extended family member to submit the application and initiate the home environment assessment no later than five business days after the emergency placement.(e) Unless the fingerprint clearance check has already been initiated, the probation agency shall ensure that, within five days of the emergency placement, a fingerprint clearance check of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and any other person whose criminal record was obtained pursuant to this section is initiated through the Department of Justice to ensure the accuracy of the criminal records check conducted through the CLETS and to ensure criminal record clearance of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and all adults in the home pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 and any associated written directives or regulations.(f) An identification card from a foreign consulate or foreign passport shall be considered a valid form of identification for conducting a criminal records check pursuant to this section.SEC. 20. Section 11405 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11405. (a) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), AFDC-FC benefits shall be paid to an otherwise eligible child living with a nonrelated legal guardian, provided that the legal guardian cooperates with the county welfare department in all of the following:(1) Developing a written assessment of the childs needs.(2) Updating the assessment no less frequently than once every six months.(3) Carrying out the case plan developed by the county.(b) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), when AFDC-FC is applied for on behalf of a child living with a nonrelated legal guardian the county welfare department shall do all of the following:(1) Develop a written assessment of the childs needs.(2) Update those assessments no less frequently than once every six months.(3) Develop a case plan that specifies how the problems identified in the assessment are to be addressed.(4) Make visits to the child as often as appropriate, but in no event less often than once every six months.(c) Where the child is a parent and has a child living with them in the same eligible facility, the assessment required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) shall include the needs of their child.(d) Nonrelated legal guardians of eligible children who are in receipt of AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be exempt from the requirement to register with the Statewide Registry of Private Professional Guardians pursuant to former Sections 2850 and 2851 of the Probate Code.(e) (1) On and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor youth whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in juvenile court pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, and whose dependency was dismissed, shall remain eligible for AFDC-FC benefits until the youth attains 19 years of age, effective January 1, 2013, until the youth attains 20 years of age, and effective January 1, 2014, until the youth attains 21 years of age, provided that the youth enters into a mutual agreement with the agency responsible for their guardianship, and the youth is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403.(2) A nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400, shall be eligible for benefits under this section until the youth attains 21 years of age if all of the following conditions are met:(A) The nonminor former dependent or ward attained 18 years of age while in receipt of Kin-GAP benefits pursuant to Article 4.7 (commencing with Section 11385).(B) The nonminors relationship to the kinship guardian is defined in paragraph (2), (3), or (4) of subdivision (c) of Section 11391.(C) The nonminor was under 16 years of age at the time the Kin-GAP negotiated agreement payments commenced.(D) The guardian continues to be responsible for the support of the nonminor.(E) The nonminor otherwise is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403.(f) On or after January 1, 2012, a child whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in probate court pursuant Article 2 (commencing with Section 1510) of Chapter 1 of Part 2 of Division 4 of the Probate Code, who is attending high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or who is in the process of pursuing a high school equivalency certificate before their 18th birthday may continue to receive aid following their 18th birthday as long as the child continues to reside in the guardians home, remains otherwise eligible for AFDC-FC benefits and continues to attend high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or continues to pursue a high school equivalency certificate, and the child may reasonably be expected to complete the educational or training program or to receive a high school equivalency certificate, before their 19th birthday. Aid shall be provided to an individual pursuant to this section provided that both the individual and the agency responsible for the foster care placement have signed a mutual agreement, if the individual is capable of making an informed agreement, documenting the continued need for out-of-home placement.(g) (1) For cases in which a guardianship was established on or before June 30, 2011, or the date specified in a final order, for which the time for appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association, et al. v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. No. C 07-05086 WHA), whichever is earlier, the AFDC-FC payment described in this section shall be the foster family home rate structure in effect before the effective date specified in the order described in this paragraph.(2) For cases in which guardianship has been established on or after July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the order described in paragraph (1), whichever is earlier, and through December 31, 2016, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be the basic foster family home rate structure effective and available as of December 31, 2016.(3) For cases in which guardianship has been established by the juvenile court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the home-based family care rate structure developed pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 11461 and Section 11463.(4) For cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the basic level rate of the home-based family care rate structure.(5) Beginning with the 201112 fiscal year, the AFDC-FC payments identified in this subdivision shall be adjusted annually by the percentage change in the California Necessities Index rate as set forth in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461.(h) In addition to the AFDC-FC rate paid, all of the following also shall be paid:(1) A specialized care increment, if applicable, as set forth in subdivision (e) of Section 11461.(2) A clothing allowance, as set forth in subdivision (f) of Section 11461.(3) For a child eligible for an AFDC-FC payment who is a teen parent, the rate shall include the two-hundred-dollar ($200) monthly payment made to the relative caregiver in a whole family foster home pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (d) of Section 11465.SEC. 21. Section 11461 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11461. (a) For children or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependents placed in a licensed or approved family home with a capacity of six or less, or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelated legal guardian, or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, or, on and after January 1, 2012, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rates in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period July 1, 1989, through December 31, 1989: AgeBasic rate 04 ........................ $294 58 ........................ $319 911 ........................ $3401214 ........................ $3781520 ........................ $412(b) (1) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that is at the levels set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive state participation, as specified in subdivision (c) of Section 15200, at these levels.(2) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that exceeds a level set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive the same level of state participation as it received on October 1, 1989.(c) The amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted as follows:(1) Effective January 1, 1990, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 12 percent.(2) Effective May 1, 1990, any county that did not increase the basic rate by 12 percent on January 1, 1990, shall do both of the following:(A) Increase the basic rate in effect December 31, 1989, for which state participation is received by 12 percent.(B) Increase the basic rate, as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (A), by an additional 5 percent.(3) (A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B), effective July 1, 1990, for the 199091 fiscal year, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by an additional 5 percent.(B) The rate increase required by subparagraph (A) shall not be applied to rates increased May 1, 1990, pursuant to paragraph (2).(4) Effective July 1, 1998, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 6 percent. Notwithstanding any other law, the 6-percent increase provided for in this paragraph shall, retroactive to July 1, 1998, apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group.(5) Notwithstanding any other law, any increase that takes effect after July 1, 1998, shall apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group.(6) The increase in the basic foster family home rate shall apply only to children placed in a licensed foster family home receiving the basic rate or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, or a nonrelated legal guardian receiving the basic rate. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster homes.(d) (1) (A) Beginning with the 199192 fiscal year, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted by the percentage changes in the California Necessities Index, computed pursuant to the methodology described in Section 11453, subject to the availability of funds.(B) In addition to the adjustment in subparagraph (A) effective January 1, 2000, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 2.36 percent rounded to the nearest dollar.(C) Effective January 1, 2008, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a), as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (B), shall be increased by 5 percent, rounded to the nearest dollar. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster family homes, and shall not be used to recompute the foster care maintenance payment that would have been paid based on the age-related, state-approved foster family home care rate and any applicable specialized care increment, for any adoption assistance agreement entered into prior to October 1, 1992, or in any subsequent reassessment for adoption assistance agreements executed before January 1, 2008.(2) (A) Any county that, as of the 199192 fiscal year, receives state participation for a basic rate that exceeds the amount set forth in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall receive an increase each year in state participation for that basic rate of one-half of the percentage adjustments specified in paragraph (1) until the difference between the countys adjusted state participation level for its basic rate and the adjusted schedule of basic rates is eliminated.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), all counties for the 19992000 fiscal year and the 200708 fiscal year shall receive an increase in state participation for the basic rate of the entire percentage adjustment described in paragraph (1).(3) If a county has, after receiving the adjustments specified in paragraph (2), a state participation level for a basic rate that is below the amount set forth in the adjusted schedule of basic rates for that fiscal year, the state participation level for that rate shall be further increased to the amount specified in the adjusted schedule of basic rates.(e) (1) As used in this section, specialized care increment means an amount paid on behalf of a child requiring specialized care to a home listed in subdivision (g) in addition to the basic rate. Notwithstanding subdivision (g), the specialized care increment shall not be paid to a nonminor dependent placed in a supervised independent living setting as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11403. A county may have a ratesetting system for specialized care to pay for the additional care and supervision needed to address the behavioral, emotional, and physical requirements of foster children. A county may modify its specialized care rate system as needed, to accommodate changing specialized placement needs of children.(2) (A) The department shall have the authority to review the countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used for compliance with state and federal law, and to require counties to make changes if necessary to conform to state and federal law.(B) The department shall make available to the public each countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used to determine the specialized care increments.(3) Upon a request by a county for technical assistance, specialized care information shall be provided by the department within 90 days of the request to the department.(4) (A) Except for subparagraph (B), beginning January 1, 1990, specialized care increments shall be adjusted in accordance with the methodology for the schedule of basic rates described in subdivisions (c) and (d).(B) Notwithstanding subdivision (e) of Section 11460, for the 199394 fiscal year, an amount equal to 5 percent of the State Treasury appropriation for family homes shall be added to the total augmentation for the AFDC-FC program in order to provide incentives and assistance to counties in the area of specialized care. This appropriation shall be used, but not limited to, encouraging counties to implement or expand specialized care payment systems, to recruit and train foster parents for the placement of children with specialized care needs, and to develop county systems to encourage the placement of children in family homes. It is the intent of the Legislature that in the use of these funds, federal financial participation shall be claimed whenever possible.(C) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the specialized care increment shall not receive a cost-of-living adjustment in the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), a county may choose to apply a cost-of-living adjustment to its specialized care increment during the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years. To the extent that a county chooses to apply a cost-of-living adjustment during that time, the state shall not participate in the costs of that adjustment.(iii) To the extent that federal financial participation is available for a cost-of-living adjustment made by a county pursuant to clause (ii), it is the intent of the Legislature that the federal funding shall be utilized.(5) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and for each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this subdivision shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code.(f) (1) As used in this section, clothing allowance means the amount paid by a county, at the countys option, in addition to the basic rate for the provision of additional clothing for a child, including, but not limited to, an initial supply of clothing and school or other uniforms. The frequency and level of funding shall be based on the needs of the child, as determined by the county.(2) The state shall no longer participate in any clothing allowance in addition to the basic rate, commencing with the 201112 fiscal year.(g) (1) Notwithstanding subdivisions (a) to (d), inclusive, for a child, or on and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor dependent, placed in a licensed foster family home or with a resource family, or placed in an approved home of a relative or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member as described in Section 362.7, or placed on and after January 1, 2012, in a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rate in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period commencing July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the final order, for which the time to appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. C 07-08056 WHA), whichever is earlier, through June 30, 2012:AgeBasic rate 04 ........................ $609 58 ........................ $660 911 ........................ $6951214 ........................ $7271520 ........................ $761(2) Commencing July 1, 2011, the basic rate set forth in this subdivision shall be annually adjusted on July 1 by the annual percentage change in the California Necessities Index applicable to the calendar year within which each July 1 occurs.(3) Subdivisions (e) and (f) shall apply to payments made pursuant to this subdivision.(4) (A) (i) For the 201617 fiscal year, the department shall develop a basic rate in coordination with the development of the foster family agency rate authorized in Section 11463 that ensures a child placed in a home-based setting described in paragraph (1), and a child placed in a certified family home or with a resource family approved by a foster family agency, is eligible for the same basic rate set forth in this paragraph.(ii) The rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(iii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020.(B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family approved by a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the certified family home or resource family from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to Section 11463.(C) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the basic rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(D) The basic rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to subparagraph (C) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(h) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this section shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code.SEC. 22. Section 11462 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11462. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for short-term residential therapeutic program placements claiming Title IV-E funding, in consultation with county placing agencies and providers.(b) The department shall develop a rate system that includes consideration of all of the following factors:(1) Core services, made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through formal agreements with other agencies, which are trauma informed and culturally relevant and include:(A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services under the Medi-Cal Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment program.(B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship.(C) Educational and physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports.(D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood.(E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate.(F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services described in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, which shall be provided to eligible children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7.(G) (i) Facilitating the identification and, as needed, the approval of resource families pursuant to Section 16519.5, for the purpose of transitioning children and youth to family-based care.(ii) If a short-term residential therapeutic program elects to approve and monitor resource families directly, the program shall comply with all laws applicable to foster family agencies, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code).(iii) For short-term residential therapeutic programs that elect to approve and monitor resource families directly, the department shall have all the same duties and responsibilities as those programs have for licensed foster family agencies, as set forth in applicable law, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code).(2) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (G), inclusive, of paragraph (1) are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent they are already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, or school-based extracurricular activities.(3) Specialized and intensive treatment supports that encompass the elements of nonmedical care and supervision necessary to meet a childs or youths safety and other needs that cannot be met in a family-based setting.(4) Staff training.(5) Health and Safety Code requirements.(6) Accreditation that includes:(A) Provision for all licensed short-term residential therapeutic programs to obtain and maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency, as identified by the department, with expertise in programs for children or youth group care facilities, as determined by the department.(B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying that agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required.(C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status.(7) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status.(8) Maximization of federal financial participation under Title IV-E and Title XIX of the Social Security Act.(c) The department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b) commencing January 1, 2017. The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new short-term residential therapeutic programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives.(1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020.(B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (3) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021.(2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, the following shall be established:(A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate.(B) An administrative review process for rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations.(C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and a protest with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations.(3) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the initial interim rates, provisional rates, and probationary rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety audits and reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers.SEC. 23. Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11463. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for the Title IV-E funded foster family agency placement option that maximizes federal funding, in consultation with county placing agencies.(b) The department shall develop a payment system for foster family agencies that provide treatment, intensive treatment, and therapeutic foster care programs, and shall consider all of the following factors:(1) Administrative activities that are eligible for federal financial participation provided, at the request of the county, for and to county-licensed or approved family homes and resource families, intensive case management and supervision, and services to achieve legal permanency or successful transition to adulthood.(2) Social work activities that are eligible for federal financial participation under Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(3) Social work and mental health services eligible for federal financial participation under Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(4) Intensive treatment or therapeutic services in the foster family agency.(5) Core services that are made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through agreements with other agencies, and which are trauma informed, culturally relevant, and include any of the following:(A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.(B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship.(C) Educational, physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports.(D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood.(E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate.(F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, shall be provided to eligible Indian children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7.(G) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (F), inclusive, are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, and school-based extracurricular activities.(6) Staff training.(7) Health and Safety Code requirements.(8) A process for accreditation that includes all of the following:(A) Provision for all licensed foster family agencies to maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency with expertise in programs for youth group care facilities, as determined by the department.(B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying the agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required.(C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status.(9) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status.(10) Populations served, including, but not limited to, any of the following:(A) (i) Children and youth assessed as seriously emotionally disturbed, as described in subdivision (a) of Section 5600.3, including those children and youth placed out-of-home pursuant to an individualized education program developed under Article 2 (commencing with Section 56320) of Chapter 4 of Part 30 of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Education Code.(ii) Children assessed as meeting the medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.(B) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving intensive and therapeutic treatment services in a foster family agency.(C) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving mental health treatment services from a foster family agency.(11) Maximization of federal financial participation for Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) and Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et. seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(c) Commencing January 1, 2017, the department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b). The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new foster family agency programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives.(1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020.(B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (4) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021.(2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, all of the following shall be established:(A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate.(B) An administrative review process for the rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations.(C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and an appeal with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations.(3) (A) (i) The foster family agency rate shall include a basic rate pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461. A child or youth placed in a certified family home or with a resource family of a foster family agency is eligible for the basic rate, which shall be passed on to the certified parent or resource family along with annual increases in accordance with paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461.(ii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate as set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020.(B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family of a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the home from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to this section.(C) In addition to the basic rate described in this paragraph, the department shall develop foster family agency rates that consider specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(i) Intensive treatment and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care.(ii) Specialized health care needs.(4) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the foster family agency rates, and the manner in which they are determined, shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers.(e) The department shall consider the impact on children and youth being transitioned to alternate programs as a result of the new ratesetting system.(f) (1) Commencing July 1, 2019, the rates paid to foster family agencies shall, except for the rate paid to a certified family home or resource family agency pursuant to clause (i) of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c), be 4.15 percent higher than the rates paid to foster family agencies in the 201819 fiscal year.(2) (A) The rate increase described in paragraph (1) shall be suspended on December 31, 2021, unless subparagraph (B) applies.(B) If, in the determination of the Department of Finance, the estimates of General Fund revenues and expenditures determined pursuant to Section 12.5 of Article IV of the California Constitution that accompany the May Revision required to be released by May 14, 2021, pursuant to Section 13308 of the Government Code, contain projected annual General Fund revenues that exceed projected annual General Fund expenditures in the 202122 and 202223 fiscal years by the sum total of General Fund moneys appropriated for all programs subject to suspension on December 31, 2021, pursuant to the Budget Act of 2019 and the bills providing for appropriations related to the Budget Act of 2019 within the meaning of subdivision (e) of Section 12 of Article IV of the California Constitution, then the implementation of the rate increase described in this subdivision shall not be suspended pursuant to subparagraph (A).(C) If subparagraph (A) applies, it is the intent of the Legislature to consider alternative solutions to facilitate the continued implementation of the rate increase described in paragraph (1).SEC. 24. Section 16501.95 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, immediately following Section 16501.9, to read:16501.95. (a) The State Department of Social Services shall determine which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in Section 1355.51 of Title 45 of the Code of Federal Regulations.(b) The department shall develop and issue written directives for child welfare contributing agencies to submit data to the applicable statewide child welfare case management systems. These directives shall address all of the following:(1) Identification of which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in federal regulations.(2) The data that a child welfare contributing agency shall provide.(3) The method in which a child welfare contributing agency shall provide data, which shall include either of the following:(A) Direct data entry into the states child welfare case management system.(B) A bidirectional data exchange between the information systems maintained by the child welfare contributing agency and the states child welfare case management system.(4) A timeline for providing the specified data in the required manner.(c) In accordance with the written directives of the department, a child welfare contributing agency shall provide child welfare services data that is collected as a result of fulfilling their contracts or agreements with the department or a county child welfare department, to the statewide child welfare case management system.(d) Notwithstanding any other law, until regulations are adopted, the department may issue written directives by provider bulletins or all-county letters, as applicable. These written directives shall have the same force and effect as regulations. The written directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code).SEC. 25. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.SEC. 25.1. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.SEC. 25.2. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 25.3. Section 16519.5 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics:(i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation.(ii) Harm reduction.(iii) Trauma-informed care.(iv) Available county and state resources.(v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation.(B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph.(C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited.(D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means.(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021.SEC. 25.4. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 25.5. Section 16519.5 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics:(i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation.(ii) Harm reduction.(iii) Trauma-informed care.(iv) Available county and state resources.(v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation.(B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph.(C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited.(D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means.(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021.SEC. 26. Section 16519.58 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.58. (a) A resource family approved by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code may transfer their approval to a county upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete the following activities:(A) Submit to the county information necessary to initiate the transfer process on a form specified by the department.(B) Authorize the county to request that clearances and exemptions issued to the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home be transferred from the department to the county pursuant to subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(C) Cooperate with the county in conducting an approval update as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5.(2) The county shall complete the following activities:(A) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, submit a request to the Department of Justice as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5.(i) The county shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the licensed foster family agency.(ii) The licensed foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the county within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(b) A county may deny a resource familys request to transfer approval to a county for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61. If the county denies a resource familys request, the resource family shall be entitled to a hearing as specified in Section 16519.6.(c) Resource family approval by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code shall be forfeited by operation of law upon the transfer of the resource family approval to a county in accordance with this section.(d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Department means the State Department of Social Services.(2) County means a county child welfare or probation department.SEC. 27. Section 18360.05 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:18360.05. (a) The department shall develop an intensive services foster care program that provides specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, the following:(1) Intensive services and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care.(2) Specialized health care needs, including those with special health care needs, as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 17710.(b) The department shall develop a program that includes a private nonprofit delivery model and a public delivery model.(c) The rate paid to an intensive services foster care resource family shall be the same whether it is paid through a licensed foster family agency model or public delivery model and shall be established pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463.(d) The rate paid to the foster family agency shall be developed pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463.(e) This chapter does not waive the requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 or Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code.(f) A licensed foster family agency or county that operates a public delivery model intensive services foster care program is not prohibited from also operating as a therapeutic foster care service model program agency.(g) A county that operates as a public delivery model shall submit to the department a program description that sets forth the manner in which it will substantially comply with the requirements of this chapter and Sections 11467, 11469.2, and 11469.3.(h) The department shall adopt regulations to implement this chapter. Until regulations are adopted, the department may administer the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code).SEC. 28. Section 18360.15 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:18360.15. (a) Each licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall develop a childs individual needs and services plan in coordination with the childs case worker, intensive services foster care resource family, and child and family team, if available. A county operating under a public delivery model or as a licensed foster family agency model may utilize the childs case plan as the individual needs and services plan.(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 17732, no more than three foster children, two of whom may be eligible children, may be placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home. Prior to the placement of a second or third foster child in the home, who may be an eligible or noneligible child, the requirements of paragraphs (1), (2), (3), and (4) of subdivision (c) shall be met.(c) Notwithstanding subdivision (b), a county placing agency may approve placements for additional foster children that would result in the placement of more than three foster children or more than two eligible children in the home in compelling circumstances, including in order to accommodate a preexisting relationship, to place a sibling group together when at least one sibling is an eligible child or was previously an eligible child in that home, or to accommodate the extraordinary needs of a specific child that the resource family has a unique ability to meet. A shortage of foster homes shall not be a compelling circumstance absent other factors. Prior to the approval of the placement of additional foster children beyond the capacity described in subdivision (b), all of the following requirements shall be met:(1) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide each county placing agency that has children placed in that home or proposed to be placed in the home with a written assessment of the risk and compatibility of placing an additional child or children with the currently placed child or children in that home, and the ability of the resource family parent or parents to provide care and support for all of the children in the home.(2) The needs and services plan of each child placed in the home shall specify the plan to ensure timely support and services for each child placed in the home.(3) When a child and family team meeting has been conducted, the county placing agency shall consider information from the child and family teams of all children placed in the home or proposed to be placed that may impact placement.(4) The capacity of the home shall not exceed the number determined by the department or county pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4.(5) The total number of eligible children placed in the home shall not exceed three unless all eligible children are related.(6) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide to the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home with the written assessment of risk and compatibility and needs and services plans described in paragraphs (1) and (2).(7) Placement of a child in the home pursuant to this subdivision shall be subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all of the county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home.(d) If a foster child resides in an intensive services foster care resource family home pursuant to subdivision (b) or (c), and this foster child is being considered for intensive services foster care, and subsequently becomes a third eligible child, the continued placement of this child is authorized subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all the county placing agencies with children placed in the home.(e) The county placing agency shall notify the department of each child in the placement and notify counsel of each child in the placement within 10 days of approval of a placement pursuant to subdivision (c) or approval to maintain a placement pursuant to subdivision (d). As part of the notification to the department, the county shall provide the department with a copy of the written assessment of the risk and compatibility described in subdivision (c).SEC. 29. Section 18360.20 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read:18360.20. The department, in consultation with counties and other stakeholders, shall consider options to expand the number of available resource families who are willing to provide intensive services foster care, including, but not limited to, the feasibility of counties and foster family agencies contracting with each other for services.SEC. 30. (a) Section 3.5 of this bill incorporates amendments to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 686. That section shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, and (3) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686, in which case Section 3 of this bill shall not become operative.(b) (1) Section 25.1 of this bill incorporates amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 686. That section shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and (3) Assembly Bill 865 is not enacted or as enacted does not amend that section, and (4) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686, in which case Sections 25, 25.2, 25.3, 25.4, and 25.5 of this bill shall not become operative.(2) Sections 25.2 and 25.3 of this bill incorporate amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 865. These sections shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, (3) Assembly Bill 686 is not enacted or as enacted does not amend that section, and (4) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 865 in which case Sections 25, 25.1, 25.4, and 25.5 of this bill shall not become operative.(3) Sections 25.4 and 25.5 of this bill incorporate amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by this bill, Assembly Bill 686, and Assembly Bill 865. These sections shall only become operative if (1) all three bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) all three bills amend Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and (3) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686 and Assembly Bill 865, in which case Sections 25, 25.1, 25.2, and 25.3 of this bill shall not become operative.SEC. 31. To the extent that this act has an overall effect of increasing the costs already borne by a local agency for programs or levels of service mandated by the 2011 Realignment Legislation within the meaning of Section 36 of Article XIII of the California Constitution, it shall apply to local agencies only to the extent that the state provides annual funding for the cost increase. Any new program or higher level of service provided by a local agency pursuant to this act above the level for which funding has been provided shall not require a subvention of funds by the state or otherwise be subject to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.With regard to certain other costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district, no reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because, in that regard, this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution. SEC. 32. No appropriation pursuant to Section 15200 of the Welfare and Institutions Code shall be made for purposes of this act. |
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| 93 | 109 | | The people of the State of California do enact as follows: |
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| 95 | 111 | | ## The people of the State of California do enact as follows: |
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| 97 | 113 | | SECTION 1. Section 1506.1 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1506.1. (a) A foster family agency shall prepare and maintain a current, written plan of operation as required by the department.(b) (1) A foster family agency shall have national accreditation from an entity identified by the department pursuant to the process described in paragraph (8) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed before January 1, 2017:(A) The foster family agency shall have until December 31, 2018, to obtain accreditation.(B) The foster family agency shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation to the department in a time and manner as determined by the department.(C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status as of January 1, 2018, and July 1, 2018, in a time and manner as determined by the department.(3) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed on or after January 1, 2017:(A) The foster family agency shall have up to 24 months from the date of licensure to obtain accreditation.(B) The foster family agency applicant shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation with its application for licensure.(C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status at 12 months and at 18 months after the date of licensure.(4) This subdivision does not preclude the department from requesting additional information from the foster family agency regarding its accreditation status.(5) The department may revoke a foster family agencys license pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) for failure to obtain accreditation within the timeframes specified in this subdivision.(6) The department may extend the date by which to comply with paragraph (2), as applicable, for up to one year upon the request of a foster family agency that has been vendored as a service provider by a regional center for persons with developmental disabilities. In determining whether to extend the date, the department shall consult with any county placement agency that places children with the foster family agency, the vendorizing regional center, and the State Department of Developmental Services.(c) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agencys plan of operation shall include a program statement. The program statement shall contain a description of all of the following:(1) The core services and supports, as set forth in paragraph (5) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and as prescribed by the department, to be offered to children and their families, as appropriate or as necessary.(2) The treatment practices that will be used in serving children and families.(3) The procedures for the development, implementation, and periodic updating of the needs and services plan for children placed with the foster family agency or served by the foster family agency, consistent with the case plans as developed by the county placing agency, that support the reasonable and prudent parent standard, as defined in Section 362.05 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and procedures for collaborating with the child and family team, as described in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which includes, but is not limited to, a description of the services to be provided to meet the treatment needs of children assessed.(4) (A) How the foster family agency will comply with the resource family approval standards and requirements, as set forth in Section 1517.(B) A foster family agency that chooses not to approve resource families pursuant to Section 1517 shall describe in the program statement the transition plan for its certified family homes to obtain resource family approval prior to December 31, 2019.(5) The population or populations to be served.(6) The ability to support the differing needs of children and their families.(7) The plan for the supervision, evaluation, and training of staff. The training plan shall be appropriate to meet the needs of children, and it shall be consistent with the training provided to resource families as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(8) The ability to provide or arrange for treatment services to meet the individual needs of children placed in certified family homes or with resource families, as specified in Section 11402 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(9) The plan for the training, supervision, and support of resource families to meet the appropriate needs of children, consistent with the training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. To the extent possible, the foster family agency training plan for resource families shall be consistent with the training requirements set forth by the county child welfare placing agency.(10) The agency or agencies that the foster family agency has partnered with, either formally or informally, to provide additional supports and services to families and children during care and postpermanency.(11) The plan for participation in child and family teams and supporting the participation of the agencys resource families in those teams, as appropriate.(12) If the foster family agency plans to operate as an intensive services foster care program, a description of the program model and how the foster family agency will comply with the requirements set forth in Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(13) Any other information that may be prescribed by the department for the proper administration of this section.(d) In addition to the rules and regulations adopted pursuant to this chapter, a county licensed to operate a foster family agency shall describe, in the plan of operation, its conflict-of-interest mitigation plan, on and after January 1, 2017, as set forth in subdivision (g) of Section 11462.02 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(e) (1) (A) (i) A foster family agency applicant shall submit an application to the department that includes a letter of recommendation in support of its program from a county placing agency.(ii) The letter of recommendation shall include a statement that the county placing agency reviewed the applicants program statement.(iii) If the letter of recommendation is not from the county in which the facility is located, the foster family agency applicant shall include with its application a statement that it provided the county in which the facility is located an opportunity for that county to review the program statement and notified that county that the facility has received a letter of recommendation from another county.(B) If the application does not contain a letter of recommendation as described in subparagraph (A), then the department shall cease review of the application. This paragraph does not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of Section 1526 or any other law.(C) A new letter of recommendation is not required when a foster family agency moves locations.(2) A foster family agency shall submit a copy of its program statement to all county placing agencies with which placements are coordinated or for which services are provided, including the county in which the facility is located, for optional review when the foster family agency updates its program statement.(f) The department shall have the authority to inspect a foster family agency pursuant to the system of governmental monitoring and oversight developed by the department on and after January 1, 2017, pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 98 | 114 | | |
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| 99 | 115 | | SECTION 1. Section 1506.1 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
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| 100 | 116 | | |
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| 101 | 117 | | ### SECTION 1. |
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| 102 | 118 | | |
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| 103 | 119 | | 1506.1. (a) A foster family agency shall prepare and maintain a current, written plan of operation as required by the department.(b) (1) A foster family agency shall have national accreditation from an entity identified by the department pursuant to the process described in paragraph (8) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed before January 1, 2017:(A) The foster family agency shall have until December 31, 2018, to obtain accreditation.(B) The foster family agency shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation to the department in a time and manner as determined by the department.(C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status as of January 1, 2018, and July 1, 2018, in a time and manner as determined by the department.(3) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed on or after January 1, 2017:(A) The foster family agency shall have up to 24 months from the date of licensure to obtain accreditation.(B) The foster family agency applicant shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation with its application for licensure.(C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status at 12 months and at 18 months after the date of licensure.(4) This subdivision does not preclude the department from requesting additional information from the foster family agency regarding its accreditation status.(5) The department may revoke a foster family agencys license pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) for failure to obtain accreditation within the timeframes specified in this subdivision.(6) The department may extend the date by which to comply with paragraph (2), as applicable, for up to one year upon the request of a foster family agency that has been vendored as a service provider by a regional center for persons with developmental disabilities. In determining whether to extend the date, the department shall consult with any county placement agency that places children with the foster family agency, the vendorizing regional center, and the State Department of Developmental Services.(c) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agencys plan of operation shall include a program statement. The program statement shall contain a description of all of the following:(1) The core services and supports, as set forth in paragraph (5) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and as prescribed by the department, to be offered to children and their families, as appropriate or as necessary.(2) The treatment practices that will be used in serving children and families.(3) The procedures for the development, implementation, and periodic updating of the needs and services plan for children placed with the foster family agency or served by the foster family agency, consistent with the case plans as developed by the county placing agency, that support the reasonable and prudent parent standard, as defined in Section 362.05 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and procedures for collaborating with the child and family team, as described in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which includes, but is not limited to, a description of the services to be provided to meet the treatment needs of children assessed.(4) (A) How the foster family agency will comply with the resource family approval standards and requirements, as set forth in Section 1517.(B) A foster family agency that chooses not to approve resource families pursuant to Section 1517 shall describe in the program statement the transition plan for its certified family homes to obtain resource family approval prior to December 31, 2019.(5) The population or populations to be served.(6) The ability to support the differing needs of children and their families.(7) The plan for the supervision, evaluation, and training of staff. The training plan shall be appropriate to meet the needs of children, and it shall be consistent with the training provided to resource families as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(8) The ability to provide or arrange for treatment services to meet the individual needs of children placed in certified family homes or with resource families, as specified in Section 11402 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(9) The plan for the training, supervision, and support of resource families to meet the appropriate needs of children, consistent with the training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. To the extent possible, the foster family agency training plan for resource families shall be consistent with the training requirements set forth by the county child welfare placing agency.(10) The agency or agencies that the foster family agency has partnered with, either formally or informally, to provide additional supports and services to families and children during care and postpermanency.(11) The plan for participation in child and family teams and supporting the participation of the agencys resource families in those teams, as appropriate.(12) If the foster family agency plans to operate as an intensive services foster care program, a description of the program model and how the foster family agency will comply with the requirements set forth in Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(13) Any other information that may be prescribed by the department for the proper administration of this section.(d) In addition to the rules and regulations adopted pursuant to this chapter, a county licensed to operate a foster family agency shall describe, in the plan of operation, its conflict-of-interest mitigation plan, on and after January 1, 2017, as set forth in subdivision (g) of Section 11462.02 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(e) (1) (A) (i) A foster family agency applicant shall submit an application to the department that includes a letter of recommendation in support of its program from a county placing agency.(ii) The letter of recommendation shall include a statement that the county placing agency reviewed the applicants program statement.(iii) If the letter of recommendation is not from the county in which the facility is located, the foster family agency applicant shall include with its application a statement that it provided the county in which the facility is located an opportunity for that county to review the program statement and notified that county that the facility has received a letter of recommendation from another county.(B) If the application does not contain a letter of recommendation as described in subparagraph (A), then the department shall cease review of the application. This paragraph does not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of Section 1526 or any other law.(C) A new letter of recommendation is not required when a foster family agency moves locations.(2) A foster family agency shall submit a copy of its program statement to all county placing agencies with which placements are coordinated or for which services are provided, including the county in which the facility is located, for optional review when the foster family agency updates its program statement.(f) The department shall have the authority to inspect a foster family agency pursuant to the system of governmental monitoring and oversight developed by the department on and after January 1, 2017, pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 104 | 120 | | |
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| 105 | 121 | | 1506.1. (a) A foster family agency shall prepare and maintain a current, written plan of operation as required by the department.(b) (1) A foster family agency shall have national accreditation from an entity identified by the department pursuant to the process described in paragraph (8) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed before January 1, 2017:(A) The foster family agency shall have until December 31, 2018, to obtain accreditation.(B) The foster family agency shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation to the department in a time and manner as determined by the department.(C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status as of January 1, 2018, and July 1, 2018, in a time and manner as determined by the department.(3) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed on or after January 1, 2017:(A) The foster family agency shall have up to 24 months from the date of licensure to obtain accreditation.(B) The foster family agency applicant shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation with its application for licensure.(C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status at 12 months and at 18 months after the date of licensure.(4) This subdivision does not preclude the department from requesting additional information from the foster family agency regarding its accreditation status.(5) The department may revoke a foster family agencys license pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) for failure to obtain accreditation within the timeframes specified in this subdivision.(6) The department may extend the date by which to comply with paragraph (2), as applicable, for up to one year upon the request of a foster family agency that has been vendored as a service provider by a regional center for persons with developmental disabilities. In determining whether to extend the date, the department shall consult with any county placement agency that places children with the foster family agency, the vendorizing regional center, and the State Department of Developmental Services.(c) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agencys plan of operation shall include a program statement. The program statement shall contain a description of all of the following:(1) The core services and supports, as set forth in paragraph (5) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and as prescribed by the department, to be offered to children and their families, as appropriate or as necessary.(2) The treatment practices that will be used in serving children and families.(3) The procedures for the development, implementation, and periodic updating of the needs and services plan for children placed with the foster family agency or served by the foster family agency, consistent with the case plans as developed by the county placing agency, that support the reasonable and prudent parent standard, as defined in Section 362.05 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and procedures for collaborating with the child and family team, as described in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which includes, but is not limited to, a description of the services to be provided to meet the treatment needs of children assessed.(4) (A) How the foster family agency will comply with the resource family approval standards and requirements, as set forth in Section 1517.(B) A foster family agency that chooses not to approve resource families pursuant to Section 1517 shall describe in the program statement the transition plan for its certified family homes to obtain resource family approval prior to December 31, 2019.(5) The population or populations to be served.(6) The ability to support the differing needs of children and their families.(7) The plan for the supervision, evaluation, and training of staff. The training plan shall be appropriate to meet the needs of children, and it shall be consistent with the training provided to resource families as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(8) The ability to provide or arrange for treatment services to meet the individual needs of children placed in certified family homes or with resource families, as specified in Section 11402 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(9) The plan for the training, supervision, and support of resource families to meet the appropriate needs of children, consistent with the training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. To the extent possible, the foster family agency training plan for resource families shall be consistent with the training requirements set forth by the county child welfare placing agency.(10) The agency or agencies that the foster family agency has partnered with, either formally or informally, to provide additional supports and services to families and children during care and postpermanency.(11) The plan for participation in child and family teams and supporting the participation of the agencys resource families in those teams, as appropriate.(12) If the foster family agency plans to operate as an intensive services foster care program, a description of the program model and how the foster family agency will comply with the requirements set forth in Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(13) Any other information that may be prescribed by the department for the proper administration of this section.(d) In addition to the rules and regulations adopted pursuant to this chapter, a county licensed to operate a foster family agency shall describe, in the plan of operation, its conflict-of-interest mitigation plan, on and after January 1, 2017, as set forth in subdivision (g) of Section 11462.02 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(e) (1) (A) (i) A foster family agency applicant shall submit an application to the department that includes a letter of recommendation in support of its program from a county placing agency.(ii) The letter of recommendation shall include a statement that the county placing agency reviewed the applicants program statement.(iii) If the letter of recommendation is not from the county in which the facility is located, the foster family agency applicant shall include with its application a statement that it provided the county in which the facility is located an opportunity for that county to review the program statement and notified that county that the facility has received a letter of recommendation from another county.(B) If the application does not contain a letter of recommendation as described in subparagraph (A), then the department shall cease review of the application. This paragraph does not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of Section 1526 or any other law.(C) A new letter of recommendation is not required when a foster family agency moves locations.(2) A foster family agency shall submit a copy of its program statement to all county placing agencies with which placements are coordinated or for which services are provided, including the county in which the facility is located, for optional review when the foster family agency updates its program statement.(f) The department shall have the authority to inspect a foster family agency pursuant to the system of governmental monitoring and oversight developed by the department on and after January 1, 2017, pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 106 | 122 | | |
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| 107 | 123 | | 1506.1. (a) A foster family agency shall prepare and maintain a current, written plan of operation as required by the department.(b) (1) A foster family agency shall have national accreditation from an entity identified by the department pursuant to the process described in paragraph (8) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed before January 1, 2017:(A) The foster family agency shall have until December 31, 2018, to obtain accreditation.(B) The foster family agency shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation to the department in a time and manner as determined by the department.(C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status as of January 1, 2018, and July 1, 2018, in a time and manner as determined by the department.(3) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed on or after January 1, 2017:(A) The foster family agency shall have up to 24 months from the date of licensure to obtain accreditation.(B) The foster family agency applicant shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation with its application for licensure.(C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status at 12 months and at 18 months after the date of licensure.(4) This subdivision does not preclude the department from requesting additional information from the foster family agency regarding its accreditation status.(5) The department may revoke a foster family agencys license pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) for failure to obtain accreditation within the timeframes specified in this subdivision.(6) The department may extend the date by which to comply with paragraph (2), as applicable, for up to one year upon the request of a foster family agency that has been vendored as a service provider by a regional center for persons with developmental disabilities. In determining whether to extend the date, the department shall consult with any county placement agency that places children with the foster family agency, the vendorizing regional center, and the State Department of Developmental Services.(c) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agencys plan of operation shall include a program statement. The program statement shall contain a description of all of the following:(1) The core services and supports, as set forth in paragraph (5) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and as prescribed by the department, to be offered to children and their families, as appropriate or as necessary.(2) The treatment practices that will be used in serving children and families.(3) The procedures for the development, implementation, and periodic updating of the needs and services plan for children placed with the foster family agency or served by the foster family agency, consistent with the case plans as developed by the county placing agency, that support the reasonable and prudent parent standard, as defined in Section 362.05 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and procedures for collaborating with the child and family team, as described in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which includes, but is not limited to, a description of the services to be provided to meet the treatment needs of children assessed.(4) (A) How the foster family agency will comply with the resource family approval standards and requirements, as set forth in Section 1517.(B) A foster family agency that chooses not to approve resource families pursuant to Section 1517 shall describe in the program statement the transition plan for its certified family homes to obtain resource family approval prior to December 31, 2019.(5) The population or populations to be served.(6) The ability to support the differing needs of children and their families.(7) The plan for the supervision, evaluation, and training of staff. The training plan shall be appropriate to meet the needs of children, and it shall be consistent with the training provided to resource families as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(8) The ability to provide or arrange for treatment services to meet the individual needs of children placed in certified family homes or with resource families, as specified in Section 11402 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(9) The plan for the training, supervision, and support of resource families to meet the appropriate needs of children, consistent with the training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. To the extent possible, the foster family agency training plan for resource families shall be consistent with the training requirements set forth by the county child welfare placing agency.(10) The agency or agencies that the foster family agency has partnered with, either formally or informally, to provide additional supports and services to families and children during care and postpermanency.(11) The plan for participation in child and family teams and supporting the participation of the agencys resource families in those teams, as appropriate.(12) If the foster family agency plans to operate as an intensive services foster care program, a description of the program model and how the foster family agency will comply with the requirements set forth in Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(13) Any other information that may be prescribed by the department for the proper administration of this section.(d) In addition to the rules and regulations adopted pursuant to this chapter, a county licensed to operate a foster family agency shall describe, in the plan of operation, its conflict-of-interest mitigation plan, on and after January 1, 2017, as set forth in subdivision (g) of Section 11462.02 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(e) (1) (A) (i) A foster family agency applicant shall submit an application to the department that includes a letter of recommendation in support of its program from a county placing agency.(ii) The letter of recommendation shall include a statement that the county placing agency reviewed the applicants program statement.(iii) If the letter of recommendation is not from the county in which the facility is located, the foster family agency applicant shall include with its application a statement that it provided the county in which the facility is located an opportunity for that county to review the program statement and notified that county that the facility has received a letter of recommendation from another county.(B) If the application does not contain a letter of recommendation as described in subparagraph (A), then the department shall cease review of the application. This paragraph does not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of Section 1526 or any other law.(C) A new letter of recommendation is not required when a foster family agency moves locations.(2) A foster family agency shall submit a copy of its program statement to all county placing agencies with which placements are coordinated or for which services are provided, including the county in which the facility is located, for optional review when the foster family agency updates its program statement.(f) The department shall have the authority to inspect a foster family agency pursuant to the system of governmental monitoring and oversight developed by the department on and after January 1, 2017, pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 108 | 124 | | |
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| 109 | 125 | | |
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| 110 | 126 | | |
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| 111 | 127 | | 1506.1. (a) A foster family agency shall prepare and maintain a current, written plan of operation as required by the department. |
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| 112 | 128 | | |
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| 113 | 129 | | (b) (1) A foster family agency shall have national accreditation from an entity identified by the department pursuant to the process described in paragraph (8) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 114 | 130 | | |
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| 115 | 131 | | (2) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed before January 1, 2017: |
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| 116 | 132 | | |
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| 117 | 133 | | (A) The foster family agency shall have until December 31, 2018, to obtain accreditation. |
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| 118 | 134 | | |
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| 119 | 135 | | (B) The foster family agency shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation to the department in a time and manner as determined by the department. |
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| 120 | 136 | | |
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| 121 | 137 | | (C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status as of January 1, 2018, and July 1, 2018, in a time and manner as determined by the department. |
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| 122 | 138 | | |
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| 123 | 139 | | (3) The following applies to a foster family agency licensed on or after January 1, 2017: |
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| 124 | 140 | | |
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| 125 | 141 | | (A) The foster family agency shall have up to 24 months from the date of licensure to obtain accreditation. |
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| 126 | 142 | | |
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| 127 | 143 | | (B) The foster family agency applicant shall submit documentation of accreditation or application for accreditation with its application for licensure. |
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| 128 | 144 | | |
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| 129 | 145 | | (C) The foster family agency shall provide documentation to the department reporting its accreditation status at 12 months and at 18 months after the date of licensure. |
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| 130 | 146 | | |
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| 131 | 147 | | (4) This subdivision does not preclude the department from requesting additional information from the foster family agency regarding its accreditation status. |
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| 132 | 148 | | |
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| 133 | 149 | | (5) The department may revoke a foster family agencys license pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) for failure to obtain accreditation within the timeframes specified in this subdivision. |
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| 134 | 150 | | |
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| 135 | 151 | | (6) The department may extend the date by which to comply with paragraph (2), as applicable, for up to one year upon the request of a foster family agency that has been vendored as a service provider by a regional center for persons with developmental disabilities. In determining whether to extend the date, the department shall consult with any county placement agency that places children with the foster family agency, the vendorizing regional center, and the State Department of Developmental Services. |
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| 136 | 152 | | |
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| 137 | 153 | | (c) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agencys plan of operation shall include a program statement. The program statement shall contain a description of all of the following: |
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| 138 | 154 | | |
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| 139 | 155 | | (1) The core services and supports, as set forth in paragraph (5) of subdivision (b) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and as prescribed by the department, to be offered to children and their families, as appropriate or as necessary. |
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| 140 | 156 | | |
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| 141 | 157 | | (2) The treatment practices that will be used in serving children and families. |
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| 142 | 158 | | |
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| 143 | 159 | | (3) The procedures for the development, implementation, and periodic updating of the needs and services plan for children placed with the foster family agency or served by the foster family agency, consistent with the case plans as developed by the county placing agency, that support the reasonable and prudent parent standard, as defined in Section 362.05 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and procedures for collaborating with the child and family team, as described in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which includes, but is not limited to, a description of the services to be provided to meet the treatment needs of children assessed. |
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| 144 | 160 | | |
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| 145 | 161 | | (4) (A) How the foster family agency will comply with the resource family approval standards and requirements, as set forth in Section 1517. |
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| 146 | 162 | | |
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| 147 | 163 | | (B) A foster family agency that chooses not to approve resource families pursuant to Section 1517 shall describe in the program statement the transition plan for its certified family homes to obtain resource family approval prior to December 31, 2019. |
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| 148 | 164 | | |
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| 149 | 165 | | (5) The population or populations to be served. |
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| 150 | 166 | | |
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| 151 | 167 | | (6) The ability to support the differing needs of children and their families. |
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| 152 | 168 | | |
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| 153 | 169 | | (7) The plan for the supervision, evaluation, and training of staff. The training plan shall be appropriate to meet the needs of children, and it shall be consistent with the training provided to resource families as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 154 | 170 | | |
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| 155 | 171 | | (8) The ability to provide or arrange for treatment services to meet the individual needs of children placed in certified family homes or with resource families, as specified in Section 11402 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 156 | 172 | | |
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| 157 | 173 | | (9) The plan for the training, supervision, and support of resource families to meet the appropriate needs of children, consistent with the training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. To the extent possible, the foster family agency training plan for resource families shall be consistent with the training requirements set forth by the county child welfare placing agency. |
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| 158 | 174 | | |
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| 159 | 175 | | (10) The agency or agencies that the foster family agency has partnered with, either formally or informally, to provide additional supports and services to families and children during care and postpermanency. |
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| 160 | 176 | | |
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| 161 | 177 | | (11) The plan for participation in child and family teams and supporting the participation of the agencys resource families in those teams, as appropriate. |
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| 162 | 178 | | |
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| 163 | 179 | | (12) If the foster family agency plans to operate as an intensive services foster care program, a description of the program model and how the foster family agency will comply with the requirements set forth in Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 164 | 180 | | |
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| 165 | 181 | | (13) Any other information that may be prescribed by the department for the proper administration of this section. |
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| 166 | 182 | | |
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| 167 | 183 | | (d) In addition to the rules and regulations adopted pursuant to this chapter, a county licensed to operate a foster family agency shall describe, in the plan of operation, its conflict-of-interest mitigation plan, on and after January 1, 2017, as set forth in subdivision (g) of Section 11462.02 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 168 | 184 | | |
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| 169 | 185 | | (e) (1) (A) (i) A foster family agency applicant shall submit an application to the department that includes a letter of recommendation in support of its program from a county placing agency. |
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| 170 | 186 | | |
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| 171 | 187 | | (ii) The letter of recommendation shall include a statement that the county placing agency reviewed the applicants program statement. |
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| 172 | 188 | | |
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| 173 | 189 | | (iii) If the letter of recommendation is not from the county in which the facility is located, the foster family agency applicant shall include with its application a statement that it provided the county in which the facility is located an opportunity for that county to review the program statement and notified that county that the facility has received a letter of recommendation from another county. |
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| 174 | 190 | | |
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| 175 | 191 | | (B) If the application does not contain a letter of recommendation as described in subparagraph (A), then the department shall cease review of the application. This paragraph does not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of Section 1526 or any other law. |
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| 176 | 192 | | |
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| 177 | 193 | | (C) A new letter of recommendation is not required when a foster family agency moves locations. |
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| 178 | 194 | | |
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| 179 | 195 | | (2) A foster family agency shall submit a copy of its program statement to all county placing agencies with which placements are coordinated or for which services are provided, including the county in which the facility is located, for optional review when the foster family agency updates its program statement. |
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| 180 | 196 | | |
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| 181 | 197 | | (f) The department shall have the authority to inspect a foster family agency pursuant to the system of governmental monitoring and oversight developed by the department on and after January 1, 2017, pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 182 | 198 | | |
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| 183 | 199 | | SEC. 2. Section 1507.25 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1507.25. (a) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer emergency medical assistance and injections for severe diabetic hypoglycemia and anaphylactic shock to a foster child in placement.(2) The following individuals shall be authorized to administer emergency medical assistance and injections in accordance with this subdivision:(A) A relative caregiver.(B) A nonrelative extended family member.(C) A foster family home parent.(D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(E) A small family home parent.(F) A certified parent of a foster family agency.(G) A designated substitute caregiver of a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family.(H) A staff member of a small family home or a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the small family home or group home.(I) A staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(J) A staff member of a transitional shelter care facility or a temporary shelter care facility who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate.(b) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer subcutaneous injections of other medications, including insulin, as prescribed by the childs physician, to a foster child in placement.(2) The following individuals shall be authorized to give prescribed injections, including insulin, in accordance with this subdivision:(A) A relative caregiver.(B) A nonrelative extended family member.(C) A foster family home parent.(D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(E) A small family home parent.(F) A certified parent of a foster family agency.(G) In the absence of a foster parent, a designated substitute caregiver in a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family.(H) A staff member of a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the group home.(I) A direct care staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate.(c) For purposes of this section, administration of an insulin injection shall include all necessary supportive activities related to the preparation and administration of the injection, including glucose testing and monitoring.(d) Notwithstanding Part 5.5 (commencing with Section 17700) of Division 9 of, and particularly subdivision (g) of Section 17710 of, the Welfare and Institutions Code, a childs need to receive injections pursuant to this section shall not be the sole basis for determining that the child has a medical condition requiring specialized in-home health care.(e) This section does not supersede the requirements of Section 369.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, with respect to the administration of psychotropic medication to a dependent child of the court. |
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| 184 | 200 | | |
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| 185 | 201 | | SEC. 2. Section 1507.25 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
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| 186 | 202 | | |
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| 187 | 203 | | ### SEC. 2. |
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| 188 | 204 | | |
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| 189 | 205 | | 1507.25. (a) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer emergency medical assistance and injections for severe diabetic hypoglycemia and anaphylactic shock to a foster child in placement.(2) The following individuals shall be authorized to administer emergency medical assistance and injections in accordance with this subdivision:(A) A relative caregiver.(B) A nonrelative extended family member.(C) A foster family home parent.(D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(E) A small family home parent.(F) A certified parent of a foster family agency.(G) A designated substitute caregiver of a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family.(H) A staff member of a small family home or a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the small family home or group home.(I) A staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(J) A staff member of a transitional shelter care facility or a temporary shelter care facility who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate.(b) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer subcutaneous injections of other medications, including insulin, as prescribed by the childs physician, to a foster child in placement.(2) The following individuals shall be authorized to give prescribed injections, including insulin, in accordance with this subdivision:(A) A relative caregiver.(B) A nonrelative extended family member.(C) A foster family home parent.(D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(E) A small family home parent.(F) A certified parent of a foster family agency.(G) In the absence of a foster parent, a designated substitute caregiver in a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family.(H) A staff member of a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the group home.(I) A direct care staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate.(c) For purposes of this section, administration of an insulin injection shall include all necessary supportive activities related to the preparation and administration of the injection, including glucose testing and monitoring.(d) Notwithstanding Part 5.5 (commencing with Section 17700) of Division 9 of, and particularly subdivision (g) of Section 17710 of, the Welfare and Institutions Code, a childs need to receive injections pursuant to this section shall not be the sole basis for determining that the child has a medical condition requiring specialized in-home health care.(e) This section does not supersede the requirements of Section 369.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, with respect to the administration of psychotropic medication to a dependent child of the court. |
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| 190 | 206 | | |
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| 191 | 207 | | 1507.25. (a) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer emergency medical assistance and injections for severe diabetic hypoglycemia and anaphylactic shock to a foster child in placement.(2) The following individuals shall be authorized to administer emergency medical assistance and injections in accordance with this subdivision:(A) A relative caregiver.(B) A nonrelative extended family member.(C) A foster family home parent.(D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(E) A small family home parent.(F) A certified parent of a foster family agency.(G) A designated substitute caregiver of a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family.(H) A staff member of a small family home or a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the small family home or group home.(I) A staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(J) A staff member of a transitional shelter care facility or a temporary shelter care facility who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate.(b) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer subcutaneous injections of other medications, including insulin, as prescribed by the childs physician, to a foster child in placement.(2) The following individuals shall be authorized to give prescribed injections, including insulin, in accordance with this subdivision:(A) A relative caregiver.(B) A nonrelative extended family member.(C) A foster family home parent.(D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(E) A small family home parent.(F) A certified parent of a foster family agency.(G) In the absence of a foster parent, a designated substitute caregiver in a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family.(H) A staff member of a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the group home.(I) A direct care staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate.(c) For purposes of this section, administration of an insulin injection shall include all necessary supportive activities related to the preparation and administration of the injection, including glucose testing and monitoring.(d) Notwithstanding Part 5.5 (commencing with Section 17700) of Division 9 of, and particularly subdivision (g) of Section 17710 of, the Welfare and Institutions Code, a childs need to receive injections pursuant to this section shall not be the sole basis for determining that the child has a medical condition requiring specialized in-home health care.(e) This section does not supersede the requirements of Section 369.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, with respect to the administration of psychotropic medication to a dependent child of the court. |
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| 192 | 208 | | |
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| 193 | 209 | | 1507.25. (a) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer emergency medical assistance and injections for severe diabetic hypoglycemia and anaphylactic shock to a foster child in placement.(2) The following individuals shall be authorized to administer emergency medical assistance and injections in accordance with this subdivision:(A) A relative caregiver.(B) A nonrelative extended family member.(C) A foster family home parent.(D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(E) A small family home parent.(F) A certified parent of a foster family agency.(G) A designated substitute caregiver of a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family.(H) A staff member of a small family home or a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the small family home or group home.(I) A staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(J) A staff member of a transitional shelter care facility or a temporary shelter care facility who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate.(b) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer subcutaneous injections of other medications, including insulin, as prescribed by the childs physician, to a foster child in placement.(2) The following individuals shall be authorized to give prescribed injections, including insulin, in accordance with this subdivision:(A) A relative caregiver.(B) A nonrelative extended family member.(C) A foster family home parent.(D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(E) A small family home parent.(F) A certified parent of a foster family agency.(G) In the absence of a foster parent, a designated substitute caregiver in a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family.(H) A staff member of a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the group home.(I) A direct care staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility.(3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate.(c) For purposes of this section, administration of an insulin injection shall include all necessary supportive activities related to the preparation and administration of the injection, including glucose testing and monitoring.(d) Notwithstanding Part 5.5 (commencing with Section 17700) of Division 9 of, and particularly subdivision (g) of Section 17710 of, the Welfare and Institutions Code, a childs need to receive injections pursuant to this section shall not be the sole basis for determining that the child has a medical condition requiring specialized in-home health care.(e) This section does not supersede the requirements of Section 369.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, with respect to the administration of psychotropic medication to a dependent child of the court. |
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| 194 | 210 | | |
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| 195 | 211 | | |
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| 196 | 212 | | |
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| 197 | 213 | | 1507.25. (a) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer emergency medical assistance and injections for severe diabetic hypoglycemia and anaphylactic shock to a foster child in placement. |
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| 198 | 214 | | |
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| 199 | 215 | | (2) The following individuals shall be authorized to administer emergency medical assistance and injections in accordance with this subdivision: |
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| 200 | 216 | | |
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| 201 | 217 | | (A) A relative caregiver. |
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| 202 | 218 | | |
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| 203 | 219 | | (B) A nonrelative extended family member. |
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| 204 | 220 | | |
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| 205 | 221 | | (C) A foster family home parent. |
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| 206 | 222 | | |
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| 207 | 223 | | (D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 208 | 224 | | |
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| 209 | 225 | | (E) A small family home parent. |
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| 210 | 226 | | |
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| 211 | 227 | | (F) A certified parent of a foster family agency. |
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| 212 | 228 | | |
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| 213 | 229 | | (G) A designated substitute caregiver of a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family. |
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| 214 | 230 | | |
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| 215 | 231 | | (H) A staff member of a small family home or a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the small family home or group home. |
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| 216 | 232 | | |
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| 217 | 233 | | (I) A staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility. |
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| 218 | 234 | | |
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| 219 | 235 | | (J) A staff member of a transitional shelter care facility or a temporary shelter care facility who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility. |
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| 220 | 236 | | |
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| 221 | 237 | | (3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate. |
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| 222 | 238 | | |
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| 223 | 239 | | (b) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a person described in paragraph (2), who is not a licensed health care professional, but who is trained to administer injections by a licensed health care professional practicing within the professionals scope of practice, may administer subcutaneous injections of other medications, including insulin, as prescribed by the childs physician, to a foster child in placement. |
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| 224 | 240 | | |
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| 225 | 241 | | (2) The following individuals shall be authorized to give prescribed injections, including insulin, in accordance with this subdivision: |
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| 226 | 242 | | |
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| 227 | 243 | | (A) A relative caregiver. |
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| 228 | 244 | | |
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| 229 | 245 | | (B) A nonrelative extended family member. |
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| 230 | 246 | | |
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| 231 | 247 | | (C) A foster family home parent. |
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| 232 | 248 | | |
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| 233 | 249 | | (D) A member of a resource family, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 234 | 250 | | |
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| 235 | 251 | | (E) A small family home parent. |
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| 236 | 252 | | |
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| 237 | 253 | | (F) A certified parent of a foster family agency. |
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| 238 | 254 | | |
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| 239 | 255 | | (G) In the absence of a foster parent, a designated substitute caregiver in a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family. |
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| 240 | 256 | | |
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| 241 | 257 | | (H) A staff member of a group home who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the group home. |
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| 242 | 258 | | |
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| 243 | 259 | | (I) A direct care staff member of a short-term residential therapeutic program, including a childrens crisis residential program, who provides direct care and supervision to children and youth residing in the facility. |
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| 244 | 260 | | |
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| 245 | 261 | | (3) The licensed health care professional shall periodically review, correct, or update training provided pursuant to this section as the professional deems necessary and appropriate. |
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| 246 | 262 | | |
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| 247 | 263 | | (c) For purposes of this section, administration of an insulin injection shall include all necessary supportive activities related to the preparation and administration of the injection, including glucose testing and monitoring. |
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| 248 | 264 | | |
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| 249 | 265 | | (d) Notwithstanding Part 5.5 (commencing with Section 17700) of Division 9 of, and particularly subdivision (g) of Section 17710 of, the Welfare and Institutions Code, a childs need to receive injections pursuant to this section shall not be the sole basis for determining that the child has a medical condition requiring specialized in-home health care. |
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| 250 | 266 | | |
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| 251 | 267 | | (e) This section does not supersede the requirements of Section 369.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, with respect to the administration of psychotropic medication to a dependent child of the court. |
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| 252 | 268 | | |
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| 253 | 269 | | SEC. 3. Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years.(B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code.(C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law.(D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed.(b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with the provisions of this section.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department.(B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(D) Taking the following actions, as applicable:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month.(F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78.(ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(H) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement.(c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved.(2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department.(3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency.(4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate.(5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety.(6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action.(d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided.(2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family.(A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing.(B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551.(ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing.(C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits.(D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550.(e) Neither this section nor Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter.(3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes:(A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph:(A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section.(h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 255 | 271 | | SEC. 3. Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
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| 256 | 272 | | |
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| 257 | 273 | | ### SEC. 3. |
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| 258 | 274 | | |
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| 259 | 275 | | 1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years.(B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code.(C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law.(D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed.(b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with the provisions of this section.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department.(B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(D) Taking the following actions, as applicable:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month.(F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78.(ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(H) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement.(c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved.(2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department.(3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency.(4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate.(5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety.(6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action.(d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided.(2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family.(A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing.(B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551.(ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing.(C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits.(D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550.(e) Neither this section nor Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter.(3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes:(A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph:(A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section.(h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 260 | 276 | | |
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| 261 | 277 | | 1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years.(B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code.(C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law.(D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed.(b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with the provisions of this section.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department.(B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(D) Taking the following actions, as applicable:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month.(F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78.(ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(H) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement.(c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved.(2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department.(3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency.(4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate.(5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety.(6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action.(d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided.(2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family.(A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing.(B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551.(ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing.(C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits.(D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550.(e) Neither this section nor Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter.(3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes:(A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph:(A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section.(h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 262 | 278 | | |
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| 263 | 279 | | 1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years.(B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code.(C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law.(D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed.(b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with the provisions of this section.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department.(B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(D) Taking the following actions, as applicable:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month.(F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78.(ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(H) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement.(c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved.(2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department.(3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency.(4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate.(5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety.(6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action.(d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided.(2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family.(A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing.(B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551.(ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing.(C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits.(D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550.(e) Neither this section nor Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter.(3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes:(A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph:(A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section.(h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 264 | 280 | | |
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| 265 | 281 | | |
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| 266 | 282 | | |
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| 267 | 283 | | 1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families. |
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| 268 | 284 | | |
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| 269 | 285 | | (2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. |
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| 270 | 286 | | |
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| 271 | 287 | | (3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. |
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| 272 | 288 | | |
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| 273 | 289 | | (4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship. |
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| 274 | 290 | | |
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| 275 | 291 | | (B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 276 | 292 | | |
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| 277 | 293 | | (5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506. |
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| 278 | 294 | | |
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| 279 | 295 | | (6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family. |
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| 280 | 296 | | |
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| 281 | 297 | | (7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years. |
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| 282 | 298 | | |
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| 283 | 299 | | (B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code. |
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| 284 | 300 | | |
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| 285 | 301 | | (C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law. |
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| 286 | 302 | | |
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| 287 | 303 | | (D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following: |
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| 288 | 304 | | |
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| 289 | 305 | | (i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order. |
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| 290 | 306 | | |
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| 291 | 307 | | (ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision. |
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| 292 | 308 | | |
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| 293 | 309 | | (8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval. |
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| 294 | 310 | | |
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| 295 | 311 | | (9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section. |
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| 296 | 312 | | |
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| 297 | 313 | | (10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family. |
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| 298 | 314 | | |
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| 299 | 315 | | (11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal. |
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| 300 | 316 | | |
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| 301 | 317 | | (B) This paragraph does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed. |
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| 302 | 318 | | |
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| 303 | 319 | | (b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with the provisions of this section. |
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| 304 | 320 | | |
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| 305 | 321 | | (2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval. |
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| 306 | 322 | | |
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| 307 | 323 | | (3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following: |
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| 308 | 324 | | |
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| 309 | 325 | | (A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department. |
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| 310 | 326 | | |
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| 311 | 327 | | (B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department. |
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| 312 | 328 | | |
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| 313 | 329 | | (C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family. |
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| 314 | 330 | | |
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| 315 | 331 | | (D) Taking the following actions, as applicable: |
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| 316 | 332 | | |
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| 317 | 333 | | (i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes. |
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| 318 | 334 | | |
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| 319 | 335 | | (II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application. |
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| 320 | 336 | | |
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| 321 | 337 | | (ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families. |
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| 322 | 338 | | |
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| 323 | 339 | | (E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month. |
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| 324 | 340 | | |
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| 325 | 341 | | (F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78. |
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| 326 | 342 | | |
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| 327 | 343 | | (ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 328 | 344 | | |
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| 329 | 345 | | (G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following: |
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| 330 | 346 | | |
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| 331 | 347 | | (i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed. |
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| 332 | 348 | | |
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| 333 | 349 | | (ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 334 | 350 | | |
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| 335 | 351 | | (iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 336 | 352 | | |
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| 337 | 353 | | (iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided. |
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| 338 | 354 | | |
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| 339 | 355 | | (H) Performing corrective action as required by the department. |
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| 340 | 356 | | |
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| 341 | 357 | | (I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 342 | 358 | | |
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| 343 | 359 | | (J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 344 | 360 | | |
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| 345 | 361 | | (ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section. |
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| 346 | 362 | | |
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| 347 | 363 | | (4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement. |
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| 348 | 364 | | |
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| 349 | 365 | | (c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following: |
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| 350 | 366 | | |
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| 351 | 367 | | (1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved. |
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| 352 | 368 | | |
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| 353 | 369 | | (2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department. |
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| 354 | 370 | | |
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| 355 | 371 | | (3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency. |
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| 356 | 372 | | |
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| 357 | 373 | | (4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate. |
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| 358 | 374 | | |
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| 359 | 375 | | (5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. |
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| 360 | 376 | | |
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| 361 | 377 | | (6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action. |
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| 362 | 378 | | |
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| 363 | 379 | | (d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided. |
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| 364 | 380 | | |
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| 365 | 381 | | (2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family. |
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| 366 | 382 | | |
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| 367 | 383 | | (A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing. |
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| 368 | 384 | | |
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| 369 | 385 | | (B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551. |
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| 370 | 386 | | |
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| 371 | 387 | | (ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 372 | 388 | | |
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| 373 | 389 | | (iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing. |
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| 374 | 390 | | |
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| 375 | 391 | | (C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. |
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| 376 | 392 | | |
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| 377 | 393 | | (D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550. |
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| 378 | 394 | | |
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| 379 | 395 | | (e) Neither this section nor Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency. |
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| 380 | 396 | | |
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| 381 | 397 | | (f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision. |
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| 382 | 398 | | |
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| 383 | 399 | | (2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter. |
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| 384 | 400 | | |
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| 385 | 401 | | (3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes. |
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| 386 | 402 | | |
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| 387 | 403 | | (4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes: |
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| 388 | 404 | | |
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| 389 | 405 | | (A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program. |
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| 390 | 406 | | |
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| 391 | 407 | | (B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020. |
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| 392 | 408 | | |
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| 393 | 409 | | (C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8). |
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| 394 | 410 | | |
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| 395 | 411 | | (5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes: |
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| 396 | 412 | | |
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| 397 | 413 | | (A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family. |
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| 398 | 414 | | |
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| 399 | 415 | | (B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 400 | 416 | | |
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| 401 | 417 | | (C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 402 | 418 | | |
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| 403 | 419 | | (6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions. |
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| 404 | 420 | | |
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| 405 | 421 | | (7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption. |
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| 406 | 422 | | |
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| 407 | 423 | | (8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph: |
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| 408 | 424 | | |
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| 409 | 425 | | (A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018. |
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| 410 | 426 | | |
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| 411 | 427 | | (B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process. |
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| 412 | 428 | | |
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| 413 | 429 | | (C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. |
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| 414 | 430 | | |
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| 415 | 431 | | (g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section. |
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| 416 | 432 | | |
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| 417 | 433 | | (h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 418 | 434 | | |
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| 419 | 435 | | SEC. 3.5. Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the foster family agency shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may provide guidance to foster family agencies regarding consistent implementation of this clause through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations, until regulations are adopted.(5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years.(B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code.(C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law.(D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed.(b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with this section.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department.(B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(D) Taking the following actions, as applicable:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month.(F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78.(ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(H) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement.(c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved.(2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department.(3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency.(4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate.(5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety.(6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action.(d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided.(2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family.(A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing.(B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551.(ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing.(C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits.(D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550.(e) This section and Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code do not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter.(3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes:(A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph:(A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section.(h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 420 | 436 | | |
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| 421 | 437 | | SEC. 3.5. Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
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| 422 | 438 | | |
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| 423 | 439 | | ### SEC. 3.5. |
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| 424 | 440 | | |
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| 425 | 441 | | 1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the foster family agency shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may provide guidance to foster family agencies regarding consistent implementation of this clause through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations, until regulations are adopted.(5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years.(B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code.(C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law.(D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed.(b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with this section.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department.(B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(D) Taking the following actions, as applicable:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month.(F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78.(ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(H) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement.(c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved.(2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department.(3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency.(4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate.(5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety.(6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action.(d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided.(2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family.(A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing.(B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551.(ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing.(C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits.(D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550.(e) This section and Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code do not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter.(3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes:(A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph:(A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section.(h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 427 | 443 | | 1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the foster family agency shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may provide guidance to foster family agencies regarding consistent implementation of this clause through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations, until regulations are adopted.(5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years.(B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code.(C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law.(D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed.(b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with this section.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department.(B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(D) Taking the following actions, as applicable:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month.(F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78.(ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(H) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement.(c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved.(2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department.(3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency.(4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate.(5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety.(6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action.(d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided.(2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family.(A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing.(B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551.(ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing.(C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits.(D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550.(e) This section and Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code do not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter.(3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes:(A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph:(A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section.(h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 429 | 445 | | 1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the foster family agency shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may provide guidance to foster family agencies regarding consistent implementation of this clause through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations, until regulations are adopted.(5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years.(B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code.(C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law.(D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed.(b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with this section.(2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department.(B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(D) Taking the following actions, as applicable:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month.(F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78.(ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(H) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement.(c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved.(2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department.(3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency.(4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate.(5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety.(6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action.(d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided.(2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family.(A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing.(B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551.(ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing.(C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits.(D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550.(e) This section and Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code do not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter.(3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes:(A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph:(A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section.(h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 430 | 446 | | |
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| 431 | 447 | | |
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| 432 | 448 | | |
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| 433 | 449 | | 1517. (a) (1) Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families. |
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| 434 | 450 | | |
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| 435 | 451 | | (2) For purposes of this chapter, a resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment and the permanency assessment criteria, as set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. |
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| 436 | 452 | | |
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| 437 | 453 | | (3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. |
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| 438 | 454 | | |
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| 439 | 455 | | (4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and shall be considered approved for adoption and guardianship. |
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| 440 | 456 | | |
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| 441 | 457 | | (B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a foster family agency may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 442 | 458 | | |
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| 443 | 459 | | (ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the foster family agency shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may provide guidance to foster family agencies regarding consistent implementation of this clause through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations, until regulations are adopted. |
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| 444 | 460 | | |
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| 445 | 461 | | (5) For purposes of this chapter, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. This approval is in lieu of a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1506. |
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| 446 | 462 | | |
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| 447 | 463 | | (6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family. |
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| 448 | 464 | | |
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| 449 | 465 | | (7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, a foster family agency shall cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial within the preceding year by the department or county, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or county within the preceding two years. |
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| 450 | 466 | | |
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| 451 | 467 | | (B) If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, a foster family agency shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897 of this code. |
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| 452 | 468 | | |
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| 453 | 469 | | (C) The cessation of review shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section, Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law. |
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| 454 | 470 | | |
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| 455 | 471 | | (D) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following: |
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| 456 | 472 | | |
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| 457 | 473 | | (i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order. |
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| 458 | 474 | | |
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| 459 | 475 | | (ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision. |
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| 460 | 476 | | |
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| 461 | 477 | | (8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval. |
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| 462 | 478 | | |
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| 463 | 479 | | (9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or probation department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or by a foster family agency pursuant to this section. |
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| 464 | 480 | | |
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| 465 | 481 | | (10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family. |
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| 466 | 482 | | |
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| 467 | 483 | | (11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal. |
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| 468 | 484 | | |
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| 469 | 485 | | (B) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, including if that activity was previously completed. |
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| 470 | 486 | | |
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| 471 | 487 | | (b) (1) A foster family agency that approves resource families shall comply with this section. |
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| 472 | 488 | | |
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| 473 | 489 | | (2) Notwithstanding any other law, a foster family agency shall require its applicants and resource families to meet the resource family approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, and other applicable laws prior to approval and in order to maintain approval. |
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| 474 | 490 | | |
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| 475 | 491 | | (3) A foster family agency shall be responsible for all of the following: |
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| 476 | 492 | | |
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| 477 | 493 | | (A) Complying with the applicable provisions of this chapter, the regulations for foster family agencies, the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and the applicable written directives or regulations adopted thereto by the department. |
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| 478 | 494 | | |
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| 479 | 495 | | (B) Implementing the requirements for the resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department. |
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| 480 | 496 | | |
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| 481 | 497 | | (C) Ensuring staff have the education, experience, and core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family. |
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| 482 | 498 | | |
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| 483 | 499 | | (D) Taking the following actions, as applicable: |
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| 484 | 500 | | |
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| 485 | 501 | | (i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates the applicants capacity to foster, adopt, or provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes. |
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| 486 | 502 | | |
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| 487 | 503 | | (II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application. |
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| 488 | 504 | | |
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| 489 | 505 | | (ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families. |
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| 490 | 506 | | |
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| 491 | 507 | | (E) Providing to the department a log of resource families that were approved or had approval rescinded during the month by the 10th day of the following month. |
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| 492 | 508 | | |
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| 493 | 509 | | (F) (i) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78. |
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| 494 | 510 | | |
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| 495 | 511 | | (ii) A foster family agency shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in clause (i), to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 496 | 512 | | |
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| 497 | 513 | | (G) Monitoring resource families through all of the following: |
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| 498 | 514 | | |
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| 499 | 515 | | (i) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the resource family approval standards while in the course of a routine visit to children subsequently placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed. |
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| 500 | 516 | | |
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| 501 | 517 | | (ii) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted thereto, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed as specified in the plan, the foster family agency or the department may rescind the approval of the resource family or take other administrative action in accordance with applicable law or the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 502 | 518 | | |
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| 503 | 519 | | (iii) Requiring resource families to report to the foster family agency any incidents, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 504 | 520 | | |
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| 505 | 521 | | (iv) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided. |
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| 506 | 522 | | |
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| 507 | 523 | | (H) Performing corrective action as required by the department. |
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| 508 | 524 | | |
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| 509 | 525 | | (I) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the report specified in paragraph (6) of subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 510 | 526 | | |
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| 511 | 527 | | (J) (i) Ensuring applicants and resource families meet the training requirements, and, if applicable, the specialized training requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 512 | 528 | | |
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| 513 | 529 | | (ii) This section does not preclude a foster family agency from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section. |
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| 514 | 530 | | |
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| 515 | 531 | | (4) A foster family agency may cooperatively match a child who is under the care, custody, and control of a county with a resource family for initial placement. |
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| 516 | 532 | | |
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| 517 | 533 | | (c) In addition to subdivision (f) of Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following: |
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| 518 | 534 | | |
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| 519 | 535 | | (1) Requiring foster family agencies to monitor resource families, including, but not limited to, inspecting resource family homes, developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies, and rescinding resource family approval if compliance with a corrective action plan is not achieved. |
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| 520 | 536 | | |
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| 521 | 537 | | (2) Investigating all complaints regarding a resource family approved by a foster family agency and taking any action it deems necessary. This shall include investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained. Complaint investigations shall be conducted in accordance with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. A foster family agency shall not conduct an internal investigation regarding an incident report or complaint against a resource family that interferes with an investigation being conducted by the department. |
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| 522 | 538 | | |
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| 523 | 539 | | (3) Rescinding approvals of a resource family approved by a foster family agency. |
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| 524 | 540 | | |
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| 525 | 541 | | (4) Excluding a resource family parent or applicant or other individual from presence in any resource family home or licensed community care facility consistent with the established standard, from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensed community care facility, or prohibiting a licensed community care facility from employing the resource family parent or other individual, if appropriate. |
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| 526 | 542 | | |
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| 527 | 543 | | (5) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing, when urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. |
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| 528 | 544 | | |
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| 529 | 545 | | (6) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, excluded individual, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to this chapter and subdivisions (g) to (n), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code if the department has ordered a foster family agency to deny a resource family application or rescind the approval of a resource family, has excluded an individual, has denied or rescinded a criminal record exemption, or has taken other administrative action. |
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| 530 | 546 | | |
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| 531 | 547 | | (d) (1) The department may enter and inspect the home of a resource family approved by a foster family agency to secure compliance with the resource family approval standards, investigate a complaint or incident, or ensure the quality of care provided. |
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| 532 | 548 | | |
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| 533 | 549 | | (2) Upon a finding of noncompliance, the department may require a foster family agency to deny a resource family application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take other action the department may deem necessary for the protection of a child placed with the resource family. |
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| 534 | 550 | | |
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| 535 | 551 | | (A) If the department requires a foster family agency to deny an application, rescind the approval of a resource family, or take another action, the department shall serve an order of denial or rescission, or another order, that notifies the resource family or applicant and foster family agency of the basis of the departments action and of the resource familys or applicants right to a hearing. |
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| 536 | 552 | | |
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| 537 | 553 | | (B) (i) Except as otherwise specified in this section, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1551. |
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| 538 | 554 | | |
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| 539 | 555 | | (ii) Notwithstanding the time for hearings set forth in this chapter, a hearing conducted pursuant to this section shall be held within the timelines specified in subdivisions (f) to (h), inclusive, of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 540 | 556 | | |
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| 541 | 557 | | (iii) Consistent with subdivision (h) of Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and notwithstanding Section 1550.5, proceedings regarding the temporary suspension of a resource family approval shall not include an interim hearing. |
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| 542 | 558 | | |
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| 543 | 559 | | (C) The departments order of the application denial, rescission of the approval, or another action shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. |
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| 544 | 560 | | |
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| 545 | 561 | | (D) A foster family agencys failure to comply with the departments order to deny an application or rescind the approval of a resource family, or another order, by placing or retaining a child in care shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550. |
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| 546 | 562 | | |
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| 547 | 563 | | (e) This section and Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code do not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to this chapter, nor do these provisions limit the departments authority to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency. |
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| 548 | 564 | | |
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| 549 | 565 | | (f) (1) The applicable certification and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster homes certified by a foster family agency prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (2), until the certification is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this subdivision. |
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| 550 | 566 | | |
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| 551 | 567 | | (2) Notwithstanding paragraph (3), a foster family agency shall approve or deny all certified family home applications received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with this chapter. |
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| 552 | 568 | | |
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| 553 | 569 | | (3) On and after January 1, 2017, a foster family agency shall not accept applications to certify foster homes and shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes. |
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| 554 | 570 | | |
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| 555 | 571 | | (4) No later than July 1, 2019, each foster family agency shall provide the following information to its certified family homes: |
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| 556 | 572 | | |
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| 557 | 573 | | (A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program. |
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| 558 | 574 | | |
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| 559 | 575 | | (B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020. |
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| 560 | 576 | | |
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| 561 | 577 | | (C) Notification that a certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8). |
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| 562 | 578 | | |
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| 563 | 579 | | (5) The following shall apply to all certified family homes: |
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| 564 | 580 | | |
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| 565 | 581 | | (A) A certified family home with an approved adoptive home study, completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family. |
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| 566 | 582 | | |
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| 567 | 583 | | (B) A certified family home that had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 568 | 584 | | |
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| 569 | 585 | | (C) A certified family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 570 | 586 | | |
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| 571 | 587 | | (6) A foster family agency may provide supportive services to all certified family homes with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions. |
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| 572 | 588 | | |
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| 573 | 589 | | (7) An individual who is approved as a resource family pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (5) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption. |
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| 574 | 590 | | |
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| 575 | 591 | | (8) All certificates of approval for certified family homes shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph: |
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| 576 | 592 | | |
|---|
| 577 | 593 | | (A) All certified family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the certificate of approval by operation of law on January 1, 2018. |
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| 578 | 594 | | |
|---|
| 579 | 595 | | (B) For certified family homes with a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process. |
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| 580 | 596 | | |
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| 581 | 597 | | (C) A certificate of approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. |
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| 582 | 598 | | |
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| 583 | 599 | | (g) A foster family agency may obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section. |
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| 584 | 600 | | |
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| 585 | 601 | | (h) A foster family agency may review and discuss with an applicant the data contained in the statewide child welfare database, and provided to the foster family agency by a county, that is pertinent to conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 586 | 602 | | |
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| 587 | 603 | | SEC. 4. Section 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1517.5. (a) A resource family currently approved by a foster family agency pursuant to this section or Section 1517 may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete the following activities:(A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency.(B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code.(C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2.(C) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family from the current foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the current foster family agency.(ii) The current foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family to the subsequent foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(b) A resource family currently approved by a county pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency.(B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code.(C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2.(C) Complete an approval update for the resource family, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the county.(ii) The county shall forward a copy of the written report and any updates to the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(c) Resource family approval by a current foster family agency or a county shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family by a subsequent foster family agency in accordance with this section.(d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Current foster family agency means a foster family agency by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to this section or Section 1517.(2) Subsequent foster family agency means a foster family agency to which a resource family has submitted an application for resource family approval pursuant to this section.(3) County means a county child welfare or probation department by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
|---|
| 588 | 604 | | |
|---|
| 589 | 605 | | SEC. 4. Section 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
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| 590 | 606 | | |
|---|
| 591 | 607 | | ### SEC. 4. |
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| 592 | 608 | | |
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| 593 | 609 | | 1517.5. (a) A resource family currently approved by a foster family agency pursuant to this section or Section 1517 may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete the following activities:(A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency.(B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code.(C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2.(C) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family from the current foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the current foster family agency.(ii) The current foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family to the subsequent foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(b) A resource family currently approved by a county pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency.(B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code.(C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2.(C) Complete an approval update for the resource family, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the county.(ii) The county shall forward a copy of the written report and any updates to the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(c) Resource family approval by a current foster family agency or a county shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family by a subsequent foster family agency in accordance with this section.(d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Current foster family agency means a foster family agency by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to this section or Section 1517.(2) Subsequent foster family agency means a foster family agency to which a resource family has submitted an application for resource family approval pursuant to this section.(3) County means a county child welfare or probation department by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 594 | 610 | | |
|---|
| 595 | 611 | | 1517.5. (a) A resource family currently approved by a foster family agency pursuant to this section or Section 1517 may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete the following activities:(A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency.(B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code.(C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2.(C) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family from the current foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the current foster family agency.(ii) The current foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family to the subsequent foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(b) A resource family currently approved by a county pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency.(B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code.(C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2.(C) Complete an approval update for the resource family, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the county.(ii) The county shall forward a copy of the written report and any updates to the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(c) Resource family approval by a current foster family agency or a county shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family by a subsequent foster family agency in accordance with this section.(d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Current foster family agency means a foster family agency by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to this section or Section 1517.(2) Subsequent foster family agency means a foster family agency to which a resource family has submitted an application for resource family approval pursuant to this section.(3) County means a county child welfare or probation department by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 596 | 612 | | |
|---|
| 597 | 613 | | 1517.5. (a) A resource family currently approved by a foster family agency pursuant to this section or Section 1517 may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete the following activities:(A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency.(B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code.(C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2.(C) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family from the current foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the current foster family agency.(ii) The current foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family to the subsequent foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(b) A resource family currently approved by a county pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency.(B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code.(C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities:(A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2.(C) Complete an approval update for the resource family, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the county.(ii) The county shall forward a copy of the written report and any updates to the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(c) Resource family approval by a current foster family agency or a county shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family by a subsequent foster family agency in accordance with this section.(d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Current foster family agency means a foster family agency by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to this section or Section 1517.(2) Subsequent foster family agency means a foster family agency to which a resource family has submitted an application for resource family approval pursuant to this section.(3) County means a county child welfare or probation department by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 598 | 614 | | |
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| 599 | 615 | | |
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| 600 | 616 | | |
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| 601 | 617 | | 1517.5. (a) A resource family currently approved by a foster family agency pursuant to this section or Section 1517 may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: |
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| 602 | 618 | | |
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| 603 | 619 | | (1) The resource family shall complete the following activities: |
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| 604 | 620 | | |
|---|
| 605 | 621 | | (A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency. |
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| 606 | 622 | | |
|---|
| 607 | 623 | | (B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code. |
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| 608 | 624 | | |
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| 609 | 625 | | (C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 610 | 626 | | |
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| 611 | 627 | | (2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities: |
|---|
| 612 | 628 | | |
|---|
| 613 | 629 | | (A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 614 | 630 | | |
|---|
| 615 | 631 | | (B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2. |
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| 616 | 632 | | |
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| 617 | 633 | | (C) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 618 | 634 | | |
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| 619 | 635 | | (i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family from the current foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the current foster family agency. |
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| 620 | 636 | | |
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| 621 | 637 | | (ii) The current foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family to the subsequent foster family agency, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request. |
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| 622 | 638 | | |
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| 623 | 639 | | (b) A resource family currently approved by a county pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code may be approved by a subsequent foster family agency upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: |
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| 624 | 640 | | |
|---|
| 625 | 641 | | (1) The resource family shall complete all of the following activities: |
|---|
| 626 | 642 | | |
|---|
| 627 | 643 | | (A) Submit an application for resource family approval to the subsequent foster family agency. |
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| 628 | 644 | | |
|---|
| 629 | 645 | | (B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522, comply with the criminal record clearance requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code as part of an approval update with the subsequent foster family agency, including the submission of fingerprints pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code. |
|---|
| 630 | 646 | | |
|---|
| 631 | 647 | | (C) Cooperate with the subsequent foster family agency in conducting an approval update, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
|---|
| 632 | 648 | | |
|---|
| 633 | 649 | | (2) The subsequent foster family agency shall complete all of the following activities: |
|---|
| 634 | 650 | | |
|---|
| 635 | 651 | | (A) Conduct a background check of the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home in accordance with Section 1517 and as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
|---|
| 636 | 652 | | |
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| 637 | 653 | | (B) Conduct a reference check pursuant to Section 1517.2. |
|---|
| 638 | 654 | | |
|---|
| 639 | 655 | | (C) Complete an approval update for the resource family, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
|---|
| 640 | 656 | | |
|---|
| 641 | 657 | | (i) The subsequent foster family agency shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the county. |
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| 642 | 658 | | |
|---|
| 643 | 659 | | (ii) The county shall forward a copy of the written report and any updates to the written report completed pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family file, including any updates to the resource family file, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the subsequent foster family agency within 20 business days of receipt of the request. |
|---|
| 644 | 660 | | |
|---|
| 645 | 661 | | (c) Resource family approval by a current foster family agency or a county shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family by a subsequent foster family agency in accordance with this section. |
|---|
| 646 | 662 | | |
|---|
| 647 | 663 | | (d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval. |
|---|
| 648 | 664 | | |
|---|
| 649 | 665 | | (e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply: |
|---|
| 650 | 666 | | |
|---|
| 651 | 667 | | (1) Current foster family agency means a foster family agency by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to this section or Section 1517. |
|---|
| 652 | 668 | | |
|---|
| 653 | 669 | | (2) Subsequent foster family agency means a foster family agency to which a resource family has submitted an application for resource family approval pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 654 | 670 | | |
|---|
| 655 | 671 | | (3) County means a county child welfare or probation department by which a resource family is currently approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
|---|
| 656 | 672 | | |
|---|
| 657 | 673 | | SEC. 5. Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1522. The Legislature recognizes the need to generate timely and accurate positive fingerprint identification of applicants as a condition of issuing licenses, permits, or certificates of approval for persons to operate or provide direct care services in a community care facility, foster family home, or a certified family home or resource family of a licensed foster family agency. Therefore, the Legislature supports the use of the fingerprint live-scan technology, as identified in the long-range plan of the Department of Justice for fully automating the processing of fingerprints and other data by the year 1999, otherwise known as the California Crime Information Intelligence System (CAL-CII), to be used for applicant fingerprints. It is the intent of the Legislature in enacting this section to require the fingerprints of those individuals whose contact with community care clients may pose a risk to the clients health and safety. An individual shall be required to obtain either a criminal record clearance or a criminal record exemption from the State Department of Social Services before the individuals initial presence in a community care facility or certified family home.(a) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or special permit to a person to operate or manage a community care facility, the State Department of Social Services shall secure from an appropriate law enforcement agency a criminal record to determine whether the applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5 of the Penal Code, subdivision (b) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons, and subsequent arrest information pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(3) The following shall apply to the criminal record information:(A) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial.(C) If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the applicant and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact.(D) If the State Department of Social Services finds, after licensure, that the licensee, or any other person specified in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license may be revoked, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(E) An applicant and any other person specified in subdivision (b) shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice for the purpose of searching the criminal records of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in addition to the criminal records search required by this subdivision. If an applicant and all other persons described in subdivision (b) meet all of the conditions for licensure, except receipt of the Federal Bureau of Investigations criminal offender record information search response for the applicant or any of the persons described in subdivision (b), the department may issue a license if the applicant and each person described in subdivision (b) has signed and submitted a statement that the person has never been convicted of a crime in the United States, other than a traffic infraction, as prescribed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 42001 of the Vehicle Code. If, after licensure, or the issuance of a certificate of approval of a certified family home by a foster family agency, the department determines that the licensee or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has a criminal record, the department may revoke the license, or require a foster family agency to revoke the certificate of approval, pursuant to Section 1550. The department may also suspend the license or require a foster family agency to suspend the certificate of approval pending an administrative hearing pursuant to Section 1550.5.(F) The State Department of Social Services shall develop procedures to provide the individuals state and federal criminal history information with the written notification of the individuals exemption denial or revocation based on the criminal record. Receipt of the criminal history information shall be optional on the part of the individual, as set forth in the agencys procedures. The procedure shall protect the confidentiality and privacy of the individuals record, and the criminal history information shall not be made available to the employer.(G) Notwithstanding any other law, the department is authorized to provide an individual with a copy of the individuals state or federal level criminal offender record information search response as provided to that department by the Department of Justice if the department has denied a criminal background clearance based on this information and the individual makes a written request to the department for a copy specifying an address to which it is to be sent. The state or federal level criminal offender record information search response shall not be modified or altered from its form or content as provided by the Department of Justice and shall be provided to the address specified by the individual in the individuals written request. The department shall retain a copy of the individuals written request and the response and date provided.(b) (1) In addition to the applicant, this section shall be applicable to criminal record clearances and exemptions for the following persons:(A) Adults responsible for administration or direct supervision of staff.(B) Any adult, other than a client, residing in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home.(C) Any person who provides client assistance in dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene. Any nurse assistant or home health aide meeting the requirements of Section 1338.5 or 1736.6, respectively, who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee, and who has been certified or recertified on or after July 1, 1998, shall be deemed to meet the criminal record clearance requirements of this section. A certified nurse assistant and certified home health aide who will be providing client assistance and who falls under this exemption shall provide one copy of their current certification, prior to providing care, to the community care facility. The facility shall maintain the copy of the certification on file as long as care is being provided by the certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide at the facility or in a certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency. This paragraph does not restrict the right of the department to exclude a certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide from a licensed community care facility or certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1558.(D) Any staff person, volunteer, or employee who has contact with the clients.(E) Any adult who works in a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child.(F) If the applicant is a firm, partnership, association, or corporation, the chief executive officer or other person serving in like capacity.(G) Additional officers of the governing body of the applicant, or other persons with a financial interest in the applicant, as determined necessary by the department by regulation. The criteria used in the development of these regulations shall be based on the persons capability to exercise substantial influence over the operation of the facility.(2) The following persons are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) A medical professional, as defined in department regulations, who holds a valid license or certification from the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity and who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee if all of the following apply:(i) The criminal record of the person has been cleared as a condition of licensure or certification by the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity.(ii) The person is providing time-limited specialized clinical care or services.(iii) The person is providing care or services within the persons scope of practice.(iv) The person is not a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility.(B) A third-party repair person or similar retained contractor if all of the following apply:(i) The person is hired for a defined, time-limited job.(ii) The person is not left alone with clients.(iii) When clients are present in the room in which the repair person or contractor is working, a staff person who has a criminal record clearance or exemption is also present.(C) Employees of a licensed home health agency and other members of licensed hospice interdisciplinary teams who have a contract with a client or resident of the facility, certified family home, or resource family home and are in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home at the request of that client or residents legal decisionmaker. The exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility.(D) Clergy and other spiritual caregivers who are performing services in common areas of the community care facility, certified family home, or resource family home or who are advising an individual client at the request of, or with the permission of, the client or legal decisionmaker, are exempt from fingerprint and criminal background check requirements imposed by community care licensing. This exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care licensee or employee of the facility.(E) Members of fraternal, service, or similar organizations who conduct group activities for clients if all of the following apply:(i) Members are not left alone with clients.(ii) Members do not transport clients off the facility, certified family home, or resource family home premises.(iii) The same organization does not conduct group activities for clients more often than defined by the departments regulations.(3) In addition to the exemptions in paragraph (2), the following persons in foster family homes, resource family homes, certified family homes, and small family homes are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) Adult friends and family of the foster parent, who come into the home to visit for a length of time no longer than defined by the department in regulations, provided that the adult friends and family of the foster parent are not left alone with the foster children. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 362.04 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, may allow adult friends and family to provide short-term care to the foster child and act as an appropriate occasional short-term babysitter for the child.(B) Parents of a foster childs friend when the foster child is visiting the friends home and the friend, foster parent, or both are also present. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, may allow the parent of the foster childs friend to act as an appropriate, occasional short-term babysitter for the child without the friend being present.(C) Individuals who are engaged by a foster parent to provide short-term care to the child for periods not to exceed 24 hours. Caregivers shall use a reasonable and prudent parent standard in selecting appropriate individuals to act as appropriate occasional short-term babysitters.(4) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult day care and adult day support centers are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) Unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and service plan, a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to the client.(B) A volunteer if all of the following apply:(i) The volunteer is supervised by the licensee or a facility employee with a criminal record clearance or exemption.(ii) The volunteer is never left alone with clients.(iii) The volunteer does not provide any client assistance with dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene other than washing of hands.(5) (A) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult residential and social rehabilitation facilities, unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and services plan, are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1): a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to that client.(B) This subdivision does not prevent a licensee from requiring a criminal record clearance of any individual exempt from the requirements of this section, provided that the individual has client contact.(6) Any person similar to those described in this subdivision, as defined by the department in regulations.(c) (1) Subsequent to initial licensure, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempted from fingerprinting shall obtain either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) from the State Department of Social Services prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the facility. A person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall be fingerprinted and shall sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions. The licensee shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). These fingerprint images and related information shall be sent by electronic transmission in a manner approved by the State Department of Social Services and the Department of Justice for the purpose of obtaining a permanent set of fingerprints, and shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the licensee. A licensees failure to prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in the citation of a deficiency and the immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images and related information shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed stamped postcard for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints.(2) Within 14 calendar days of the receipt of the fingerprint images, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services of the criminal record information, as provided in subdivision (a). If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the licensee and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact within 14 calendar days of receipt of the fingerprint images. Documentation of the individuals clearance or exemption from disqualification shall be maintained by the licensee and be available for inspection. If new fingerprint images are required for processing, the Department of Justice shall, within 14 calendar days from the date of receipt of the fingerprints, notify the licensee that the fingerprints were illegible, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services, as required by Section 1522.04, and shall also notify the licensee by mail, within 14 days of electronic transmission of the fingerprints to the Department of Justice, if the person has no criminal history recorded. A violation of the regulations adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548.(3) Except for persons specified in subdivision (b) who are exempt from fingerprinting, the licensee shall endeavor to ascertain the previous employment history of persons required to be fingerprinted. If it is determined by the State Department of Social Services, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the State Department of Social Services shall notify the licensee to act immediately to terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility. The State Department of Social Services may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, except a minor traffic violation, the licensee shall, upon notification by the State Department of Social Services, act immediately to either (A) terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility; or (B) seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the facility until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered. A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by this paragraph shall result in a citation of deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(4) The department may issue an exemption from disqualification on its own motion pursuant to subdivision (g) if the persons criminal history indicates that the person is of good character based on the age, seriousness, and frequency of the conviction or convictions. The department, in consultation with interested parties, shall develop regulations to establish the criteria to grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to this paragraph.(5) Concurrently with notifying the licensee pursuant to paragraph (3), the department shall notify the affected individual of the right to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The individual may seek an exemption from disqualification only if the licensee terminates the persons employment or removes the person from the facility after receiving notice from the department pursuant to paragraph (3).(d) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or certificate of approval to any person or persons to operate a foster family home, certified family home as described in Section 1506, or resource family pursuant to Section 1517 of this code or Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall secure California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal history information to determine whether the applicant or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting has ever been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in subdivision (c) of Section 290 of the Penal Code, for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, subdivision (b) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall not issue a license or certificate of approval to any foster family home, certified family home, or resource family applicant who has not obtained both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g).(2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons.(3) Neither the Department of Justice nor the State Department of Social Services may charge a fee for the fingerprinting of an applicant for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval described in this subdivision. The record, if any, shall be taken into consideration when evaluating a prospective applicant.(4) The following shall apply to the criminal record information:(A) If the applicant or other persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting have convictions that would make the applicants home unfit as a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family, the license, special permit, certificate of approval, or presence shall be denied.(B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial.(C) For purposes of this subdivision, a criminal record clearance provided under Section 8712 of the Family Code may be used by the department or other approving authority.(D) To the same extent required for federal funding, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall submit a set of fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, in addition to the criminal records search required by subdivision (a).(5) Any person specified in this subdivision shall, as a part of the application, be fingerprinted and sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions or arrests for any crime against a child, spousal or cohabitant abuse, or any crime for which the department cannot grant an exemption if the person was convicted and shall submit these fingerprints to the licensing agency or other approving authority.(6) (A) Subsequent to initial licensure, certification, or approval, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall obtain both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance, or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the foster family home, certified family home, or resource family home. A foster family home licensee or foster family agency shall submit fingerprint images and related information of persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). A foster family home licensees or a foster family agencys failure to either prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in a citation of a deficiency, and the immediate civil penalties of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. A violation of the regulation adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550. The State Department of Social Services may assess penalties for continued violations, as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing.(B) Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints. Within five working days of the receipt of the criminal record or information regarding criminal convictions from the Department of Justice, the department shall notify the applicant of any criminal arrests or convictions. If no arrests or convictions are recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency with a statement of that fact concurrent with providing the information to the State Department of Social Services.(7) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application or presence shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g).(8) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds, after licensure or the granting of the certificate of approval, that the licensee, certified foster parent, resource family, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license or certificate of approval may be revoked or rescinded by the department or the foster family agency, whichever is applicable, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(e) (1) The State Department of Social Services shall not use a record of arrest to deny, revoke, rescind, or terminate any application, license, certificate of approval, employment, or residence unless the department investigates the incident and secures evidence, whether or not related to the incident of arrest, that is admissible in an administrative hearing to establish conduct by the person that may pose a risk to the health and safety of any person who is or may become a client.(2) The department shall not issue a criminal record clearance to a person who has been arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, or subdivision (b) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to the completion of an investigation pursuant to paragraph (1).(3) The State Department of Social Services is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties to inspect, license, and investigate community care facilities and individuals associated with a community care facility.(f) (1) For purposes of this chapter, a conviction means a plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere. Any action that the State Department of Social Services is permitted to take following the establishment of a conviction may be taken when the time for appeal has elapsed, when the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal, or when an order granting probation is made suspending the imposition of sentence, notwithstanding a subsequent order pursuant to Sections 1203.4 and 1203.4a of the Penal Code permitting the person to withdraw a plea of guilty and to enter a plea of not guilty, or setting aside the verdict of guilty, or dismissing the accusation, information, or indictment. For purposes of this chapter, the record of a conviction, or a copy thereof certified by the clerk of the court or by a judge of the court in which the conviction occurred, shall be conclusive evidence of the conviction. For purposes of this chapter, the arrest disposition report certified by the Department of Justice, or documents admissible in a criminal action pursuant to Section 969b of the Penal Code, shall be prima facie evidence of the conviction, notwithstanding any other law prohibiting the admission of these documents in a civil or administrative action.(2) For purposes of this chapter, the department shall consider criminal convictions from another state or federal court as if the criminal offense was committed in this state.(g) (1) Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision with respect to a foster care provider applicant, including a relative caregiver, nonrelative extended family member, or resource family, after review of the record, the department may grant an exemption from disqualification for a license or special permit as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a), or for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval as specified in paragraphs (4), (7), and (8) of subdivision (d), or for employment, residence, or presence in a community care facility as specified in paragraphs (3), (4), and (5) of subdivision (c), if the department has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant and the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, are of good character as to justify issuance of the license or special permit or granting an exemption for purposes of subdivision (c). Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision, an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision if the conviction was for any of the following offenses:(A) (i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the department may grant an exemption regarding the conviction for an offense described in paragraph (1), (2), (7), or (8) of subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code, if the employee or prospective employee has been rehabilitated as provided in Section 4852.03 of the Penal Code, has maintained the conduct required in Section 4852.05 of the Penal Code for at least 10 years, and has the recommendation of the district attorney representing the employees county of residence, or if the employee or prospective employee has received a certificate of rehabilitation pursuant to Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 4852.01) of Title 6 of Part 3 of the Penal Code.(B) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code.(C) (i) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (A), an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any applicant for licensure of a community care facility eligible to accept placement of a dependent child if either that applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is associated with the facility has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses:(I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subclause, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A) or subparagraph (B).(II) A felony conviction for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense that occurred within the last five years.(ii) This subparagraph shall be operative to the extent that compliance with these provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.).(2) (A) For a foster care provider applicant, a resource family applicant, or a prospective respite care provider, as described in Section 16501.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, an exemption shall not be granted if that applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, has a conviction for any of the following offenses:(i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code.(ii) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code.(iii) Under no circumstances shall an exemption be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any foster care provider applicant if that applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) in those homes, has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses:(I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subparagraph, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A), or clause (ii) of this subparagraph.(II) A felony conviction, within the last five years, for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense.(III) This clause shall not apply to licenses or approvals wherein a caregiver was granted an exemption to a criminal conviction described in clause (i) prior to the enactment of this clause.(IV) This clause shall remain operative only to the extent that compliance with its provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.).(B) The department or other approving entity may grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider, resource family applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, if the department or other approving entity has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption and the conviction is for one of the following offenses:(i) (I) Any misdemeanor conviction within the last five years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A).(II) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a misdemeanor conviction for statutory rape, as defined in Section 261.5 of the Penal Code, a misdemeanor conviction for indecent exposure, as defined in Section 314 of the Penal Code, or a misdemeanor conviction for financial abuse against an elder, as defined in Section 368 of the Penal Code, shall be eligible for the consideration of an exemption as set forth in subparagraph (C).(ii) Any felony conviction within the last seven years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A).(C) When granting an exemption for a crime listed in subparagraph (B), the department or other approving entity shall consider all reasonably available information, including, but not limited to, the following:(i) The nature of the crime or crimes.(ii) The period of time since the crime was committed.(iii) The number of offenses.(iv) Circumstances surrounding the commission of the crime indicating the likelihood of future criminal activity.(v) Activities since conviction, including employment, participation in therapy, education, or treatment.(vi) Whether the person convicted has successfully completed probation or parole, obtained a certificate of rehabilitation, or been granted a pardon by the Governor.(vii) Any character references or other evidence submitted by the applicant.(viii) Whether the person convicted demonstrated honesty and truthfulness concerning the crime or crimes during the application and approval process and made reasonable efforts to assist the department in obtaining records and documents concerning the crime or crimes.(D) (i) The department or other approving entity shall grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider applicant, resource family applicant, or any person subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, who has been convicted of an offense not listed in subparagraph (A) or (B), if the individuals state and federal criminal history information received from the Department of Justice independently supports a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption.(ii) Notwithstanding the fact that an individual meets the criteria described in clause (i), the department or other approving entity, at its discretion, as necessary to protect the health and safety of a child, may evaluate a person described in clause (i), for purposes of making an exemption decision, pursuant to the criteria described in subparagraphs (B) and (C).(E) This paragraph shall not apply to licenses or approvals for which a caregiver was granted an exemption for a criminal conviction prior to January 1, 2018.(3) The department shall not prohibit a person from being employed or having contact with clients in a facility, certified family home, or resource family home on the basis of a denied criminal record exemption request or arrest information unless the department complies with the requirements of Section 1558 of this code or Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, as applicable.(h) (1) For purposes of compliance with this section, the department may permit an individual to transfer a current criminal record clearance, as defined in subdivision (a), from one facility to another, as long as the criminal record clearance has been processed through a state licensing district office, and is being transferred to another facility licensed by a state licensing district office. The request shall be in writing to the State Department of Social Services, and shall include a copy of the persons drivers license or valid identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, or a valid photo identification issued by another state or the United States government if the person is not a California resident. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the State Department of Social Services shall verify whether the individual has a clearance that can be transferred.(2) The State Department of Social Services shall hold criminal record clearances in its active files for a minimum of three years after an employee is no longer employed at a licensed facility in order for the criminal record clearance to be transferred.(3) A criminal record clearance or exemption processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority shall be accepted by the department or county upon notification of transfer.(4) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 concerning an individual whose criminal record clearance was originally processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, all of the following shall apply:(A) The Department of Justice shall process a request from the department or a county to receive the notice only if all of the following conditions are met:(i) The request shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the agency to be substituted to receive the notification.(ii) The request shall be for the same applicant type as the type for which the original clearance was obtained.(iii) The request shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(B) (i) On or before January 7, 2005, the department shall notify the Department of Justice of all county offices that have department-delegated licensing authority.(ii) The department shall notify the Department of Justice within 15 calendar days of the date on which a new county office receives department-delegated licensing authority or a countys delegated licensing authority is rescinded.(C) The Department of Justice shall charge the department, a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, or a county child welfare agency with criminal record clearance and exemption authority, a fee for each time a request to substitute the recipient agency is received for purposes of this paragraph. This fee shall not exceed the cost of providing the service.(i) The full criminal record obtained for purposes of this section may be used by the department or by a licensed adoption agency as a clearance required for adoption purposes.(j) If a licensee or facility is required by law to deny employment or to terminate employment of any employee based on written notification from the department that the employee has a prior criminal conviction or is determined unsuitable for employment under Section 1558, the licensee or facility shall not incur civil liability or unemployment insurance liability as a result of that denial or termination.(k) The State Department of Social Services may charge a reasonable fee for the costs of processing electronic fingerprint images and related information. |
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| 658 | 674 | | |
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| 659 | 675 | | SEC. 5. Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
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| 660 | 676 | | |
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| 661 | 677 | | ### SEC. 5. |
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| 662 | 678 | | |
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| 663 | 679 | | 1522. The Legislature recognizes the need to generate timely and accurate positive fingerprint identification of applicants as a condition of issuing licenses, permits, or certificates of approval for persons to operate or provide direct care services in a community care facility, foster family home, or a certified family home or resource family of a licensed foster family agency. Therefore, the Legislature supports the use of the fingerprint live-scan technology, as identified in the long-range plan of the Department of Justice for fully automating the processing of fingerprints and other data by the year 1999, otherwise known as the California Crime Information Intelligence System (CAL-CII), to be used for applicant fingerprints. It is the intent of the Legislature in enacting this section to require the fingerprints of those individuals whose contact with community care clients may pose a risk to the clients health and safety. An individual shall be required to obtain either a criminal record clearance or a criminal record exemption from the State Department of Social Services before the individuals initial presence in a community care facility or certified family home.(a) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or special permit to a person to operate or manage a community care facility, the State Department of Social Services shall secure from an appropriate law enforcement agency a criminal record to determine whether the applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5 of the Penal Code, subdivision (b) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons, and subsequent arrest information pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(3) The following shall apply to the criminal record information:(A) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial.(C) If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the applicant and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact.(D) If the State Department of Social Services finds, after licensure, that the licensee, or any other person specified in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license may be revoked, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(E) An applicant and any other person specified in subdivision (b) shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice for the purpose of searching the criminal records of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in addition to the criminal records search required by this subdivision. If an applicant and all other persons described in subdivision (b) meet all of the conditions for licensure, except receipt of the Federal Bureau of Investigations criminal offender record information search response for the applicant or any of the persons described in subdivision (b), the department may issue a license if the applicant and each person described in subdivision (b) has signed and submitted a statement that the person has never been convicted of a crime in the United States, other than a traffic infraction, as prescribed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 42001 of the Vehicle Code. If, after licensure, or the issuance of a certificate of approval of a certified family home by a foster family agency, the department determines that the licensee or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has a criminal record, the department may revoke the license, or require a foster family agency to revoke the certificate of approval, pursuant to Section 1550. The department may also suspend the license or require a foster family agency to suspend the certificate of approval pending an administrative hearing pursuant to Section 1550.5.(F) The State Department of Social Services shall develop procedures to provide the individuals state and federal criminal history information with the written notification of the individuals exemption denial or revocation based on the criminal record. Receipt of the criminal history information shall be optional on the part of the individual, as set forth in the agencys procedures. The procedure shall protect the confidentiality and privacy of the individuals record, and the criminal history information shall not be made available to the employer.(G) Notwithstanding any other law, the department is authorized to provide an individual with a copy of the individuals state or federal level criminal offender record information search response as provided to that department by the Department of Justice if the department has denied a criminal background clearance based on this information and the individual makes a written request to the department for a copy specifying an address to which it is to be sent. The state or federal level criminal offender record information search response shall not be modified or altered from its form or content as provided by the Department of Justice and shall be provided to the address specified by the individual in the individuals written request. The department shall retain a copy of the individuals written request and the response and date provided.(b) (1) In addition to the applicant, this section shall be applicable to criminal record clearances and exemptions for the following persons:(A) Adults responsible for administration or direct supervision of staff.(B) Any adult, other than a client, residing in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home.(C) Any person who provides client assistance in dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene. Any nurse assistant or home health aide meeting the requirements of Section 1338.5 or 1736.6, respectively, who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee, and who has been certified or recertified on or after July 1, 1998, shall be deemed to meet the criminal record clearance requirements of this section. A certified nurse assistant and certified home health aide who will be providing client assistance and who falls under this exemption shall provide one copy of their current certification, prior to providing care, to the community care facility. The facility shall maintain the copy of the certification on file as long as care is being provided by the certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide at the facility or in a certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency. This paragraph does not restrict the right of the department to exclude a certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide from a licensed community care facility or certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1558.(D) Any staff person, volunteer, or employee who has contact with the clients.(E) Any adult who works in a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child.(F) If the applicant is a firm, partnership, association, or corporation, the chief executive officer or other person serving in like capacity.(G) Additional officers of the governing body of the applicant, or other persons with a financial interest in the applicant, as determined necessary by the department by regulation. The criteria used in the development of these regulations shall be based on the persons capability to exercise substantial influence over the operation of the facility.(2) The following persons are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) A medical professional, as defined in department regulations, who holds a valid license or certification from the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity and who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee if all of the following apply:(i) The criminal record of the person has been cleared as a condition of licensure or certification by the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity.(ii) The person is providing time-limited specialized clinical care or services.(iii) The person is providing care or services within the persons scope of practice.(iv) The person is not a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility.(B) A third-party repair person or similar retained contractor if all of the following apply:(i) The person is hired for a defined, time-limited job.(ii) The person is not left alone with clients.(iii) When clients are present in the room in which the repair person or contractor is working, a staff person who has a criminal record clearance or exemption is also present.(C) Employees of a licensed home health agency and other members of licensed hospice interdisciplinary teams who have a contract with a client or resident of the facility, certified family home, or resource family home and are in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home at the request of that client or residents legal decisionmaker. The exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility.(D) Clergy and other spiritual caregivers who are performing services in common areas of the community care facility, certified family home, or resource family home or who are advising an individual client at the request of, or with the permission of, the client or legal decisionmaker, are exempt from fingerprint and criminal background check requirements imposed by community care licensing. This exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care licensee or employee of the facility.(E) Members of fraternal, service, or similar organizations who conduct group activities for clients if all of the following apply:(i) Members are not left alone with clients.(ii) Members do not transport clients off the facility, certified family home, or resource family home premises.(iii) The same organization does not conduct group activities for clients more often than defined by the departments regulations.(3) In addition to the exemptions in paragraph (2), the following persons in foster family homes, resource family homes, certified family homes, and small family homes are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) Adult friends and family of the foster parent, who come into the home to visit for a length of time no longer than defined by the department in regulations, provided that the adult friends and family of the foster parent are not left alone with the foster children. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 362.04 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, may allow adult friends and family to provide short-term care to the foster child and act as an appropriate occasional short-term babysitter for the child.(B) Parents of a foster childs friend when the foster child is visiting the friends home and the friend, foster parent, or both are also present. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, may allow the parent of the foster childs friend to act as an appropriate, occasional short-term babysitter for the child without the friend being present.(C) Individuals who are engaged by a foster parent to provide short-term care to the child for periods not to exceed 24 hours. Caregivers shall use a reasonable and prudent parent standard in selecting appropriate individuals to act as appropriate occasional short-term babysitters.(4) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult day care and adult day support centers are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) Unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and service plan, a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to the client.(B) A volunteer if all of the following apply:(i) The volunteer is supervised by the licensee or a facility employee with a criminal record clearance or exemption.(ii) The volunteer is never left alone with clients.(iii) The volunteer does not provide any client assistance with dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene other than washing of hands.(5) (A) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult residential and social rehabilitation facilities, unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and services plan, are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1): a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to that client.(B) This subdivision does not prevent a licensee from requiring a criminal record clearance of any individual exempt from the requirements of this section, provided that the individual has client contact.(6) Any person similar to those described in this subdivision, as defined by the department in regulations.(c) (1) Subsequent to initial licensure, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempted from fingerprinting shall obtain either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) from the State Department of Social Services prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the facility. A person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall be fingerprinted and shall sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions. The licensee shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). These fingerprint images and related information shall be sent by electronic transmission in a manner approved by the State Department of Social Services and the Department of Justice for the purpose of obtaining a permanent set of fingerprints, and shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the licensee. A licensees failure to prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in the citation of a deficiency and the immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images and related information shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed stamped postcard for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints.(2) Within 14 calendar days of the receipt of the fingerprint images, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services of the criminal record information, as provided in subdivision (a). If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the licensee and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact within 14 calendar days of receipt of the fingerprint images. Documentation of the individuals clearance or exemption from disqualification shall be maintained by the licensee and be available for inspection. If new fingerprint images are required for processing, the Department of Justice shall, within 14 calendar days from the date of receipt of the fingerprints, notify the licensee that the fingerprints were illegible, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services, as required by Section 1522.04, and shall also notify the licensee by mail, within 14 days of electronic transmission of the fingerprints to the Department of Justice, if the person has no criminal history recorded. A violation of the regulations adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548.(3) Except for persons specified in subdivision (b) who are exempt from fingerprinting, the licensee shall endeavor to ascertain the previous employment history of persons required to be fingerprinted. If it is determined by the State Department of Social Services, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the State Department of Social Services shall notify the licensee to act immediately to terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility. The State Department of Social Services may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, except a minor traffic violation, the licensee shall, upon notification by the State Department of Social Services, act immediately to either (A) terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility; or (B) seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the facility until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered. A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by this paragraph shall result in a citation of deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(4) The department may issue an exemption from disqualification on its own motion pursuant to subdivision (g) if the persons criminal history indicates that the person is of good character based on the age, seriousness, and frequency of the conviction or convictions. The department, in consultation with interested parties, shall develop regulations to establish the criteria to grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to this paragraph.(5) Concurrently with notifying the licensee pursuant to paragraph (3), the department shall notify the affected individual of the right to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The individual may seek an exemption from disqualification only if the licensee terminates the persons employment or removes the person from the facility after receiving notice from the department pursuant to paragraph (3).(d) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or certificate of approval to any person or persons to operate a foster family home, certified family home as described in Section 1506, or resource family pursuant to Section 1517 of this code or Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall secure California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal history information to determine whether the applicant or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting has ever been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in subdivision (c) of Section 290 of the Penal Code, for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, subdivision (b) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall not issue a license or certificate of approval to any foster family home, certified family home, or resource family applicant who has not obtained both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g).(2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons.(3) Neither the Department of Justice nor the State Department of Social Services may charge a fee for the fingerprinting of an applicant for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval described in this subdivision. The record, if any, shall be taken into consideration when evaluating a prospective applicant.(4) The following shall apply to the criminal record information:(A) If the applicant or other persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting have convictions that would make the applicants home unfit as a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family, the license, special permit, certificate of approval, or presence shall be denied.(B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial.(C) For purposes of this subdivision, a criminal record clearance provided under Section 8712 of the Family Code may be used by the department or other approving authority.(D) To the same extent required for federal funding, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall submit a set of fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, in addition to the criminal records search required by subdivision (a).(5) Any person specified in this subdivision shall, as a part of the application, be fingerprinted and sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions or arrests for any crime against a child, spousal or cohabitant abuse, or any crime for which the department cannot grant an exemption if the person was convicted and shall submit these fingerprints to the licensing agency or other approving authority.(6) (A) Subsequent to initial licensure, certification, or approval, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall obtain both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance, or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the foster family home, certified family home, or resource family home. A foster family home licensee or foster family agency shall submit fingerprint images and related information of persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). A foster family home licensees or a foster family agencys failure to either prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in a citation of a deficiency, and the immediate civil penalties of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. A violation of the regulation adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550. The State Department of Social Services may assess penalties for continued violations, as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing.(B) Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints. Within five working days of the receipt of the criminal record or information regarding criminal convictions from the Department of Justice, the department shall notify the applicant of any criminal arrests or convictions. If no arrests or convictions are recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency with a statement of that fact concurrent with providing the information to the State Department of Social Services.(7) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application or presence shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g).(8) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds, after licensure or the granting of the certificate of approval, that the licensee, certified foster parent, resource family, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license or certificate of approval may be revoked or rescinded by the department or the foster family agency, whichever is applicable, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(e) (1) The State Department of Social Services shall not use a record of arrest to deny, revoke, rescind, or terminate any application, license, certificate of approval, employment, or residence unless the department investigates the incident and secures evidence, whether or not related to the incident of arrest, that is admissible in an administrative hearing to establish conduct by the person that may pose a risk to the health and safety of any person who is or may become a client.(2) The department shall not issue a criminal record clearance to a person who has been arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, or subdivision (b) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to the completion of an investigation pursuant to paragraph (1).(3) The State Department of Social Services is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties to inspect, license, and investigate community care facilities and individuals associated with a community care facility.(f) (1) For purposes of this chapter, a conviction means a plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere. Any action that the State Department of Social Services is permitted to take following the establishment of a conviction may be taken when the time for appeal has elapsed, when the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal, or when an order granting probation is made suspending the imposition of sentence, notwithstanding a subsequent order pursuant to Sections 1203.4 and 1203.4a of the Penal Code permitting the person to withdraw a plea of guilty and to enter a plea of not guilty, or setting aside the verdict of guilty, or dismissing the accusation, information, or indictment. For purposes of this chapter, the record of a conviction, or a copy thereof certified by the clerk of the court or by a judge of the court in which the conviction occurred, shall be conclusive evidence of the conviction. For purposes of this chapter, the arrest disposition report certified by the Department of Justice, or documents admissible in a criminal action pursuant to Section 969b of the Penal Code, shall be prima facie evidence of the conviction, notwithstanding any other law prohibiting the admission of these documents in a civil or administrative action.(2) For purposes of this chapter, the department shall consider criminal convictions from another state or federal court as if the criminal offense was committed in this state.(g) (1) Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision with respect to a foster care provider applicant, including a relative caregiver, nonrelative extended family member, or resource family, after review of the record, the department may grant an exemption from disqualification for a license or special permit as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a), or for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval as specified in paragraphs (4), (7), and (8) of subdivision (d), or for employment, residence, or presence in a community care facility as specified in paragraphs (3), (4), and (5) of subdivision (c), if the department has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant and the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, are of good character as to justify issuance of the license or special permit or granting an exemption for purposes of subdivision (c). Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision, an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision if the conviction was for any of the following offenses:(A) (i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the department may grant an exemption regarding the conviction for an offense described in paragraph (1), (2), (7), or (8) of subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code, if the employee or prospective employee has been rehabilitated as provided in Section 4852.03 of the Penal Code, has maintained the conduct required in Section 4852.05 of the Penal Code for at least 10 years, and has the recommendation of the district attorney representing the employees county of residence, or if the employee or prospective employee has received a certificate of rehabilitation pursuant to Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 4852.01) of Title 6 of Part 3 of the Penal Code.(B) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code.(C) (i) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (A), an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any applicant for licensure of a community care facility eligible to accept placement of a dependent child if either that applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is associated with the facility has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses:(I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subclause, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A) or subparagraph (B).(II) A felony conviction for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense that occurred within the last five years.(ii) This subparagraph shall be operative to the extent that compliance with these provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.).(2) (A) For a foster care provider applicant, a resource family applicant, or a prospective respite care provider, as described in Section 16501.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, an exemption shall not be granted if that applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, has a conviction for any of the following offenses:(i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code.(ii) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code.(iii) Under no circumstances shall an exemption be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any foster care provider applicant if that applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) in those homes, has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses:(I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subparagraph, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A), or clause (ii) of this subparagraph.(II) A felony conviction, within the last five years, for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense.(III) This clause shall not apply to licenses or approvals wherein a caregiver was granted an exemption to a criminal conviction described in clause (i) prior to the enactment of this clause.(IV) This clause shall remain operative only to the extent that compliance with its provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.).(B) The department or other approving entity may grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider, resource family applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, if the department or other approving entity has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption and the conviction is for one of the following offenses:(i) (I) Any misdemeanor conviction within the last five years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A).(II) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a misdemeanor conviction for statutory rape, as defined in Section 261.5 of the Penal Code, a misdemeanor conviction for indecent exposure, as defined in Section 314 of the Penal Code, or a misdemeanor conviction for financial abuse against an elder, as defined in Section 368 of the Penal Code, shall be eligible for the consideration of an exemption as set forth in subparagraph (C).(ii) Any felony conviction within the last seven years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A).(C) When granting an exemption for a crime listed in subparagraph (B), the department or other approving entity shall consider all reasonably available information, including, but not limited to, the following:(i) The nature of the crime or crimes.(ii) The period of time since the crime was committed.(iii) The number of offenses.(iv) Circumstances surrounding the commission of the crime indicating the likelihood of future criminal activity.(v) Activities since conviction, including employment, participation in therapy, education, or treatment.(vi) Whether the person convicted has successfully completed probation or parole, obtained a certificate of rehabilitation, or been granted a pardon by the Governor.(vii) Any character references or other evidence submitted by the applicant.(viii) Whether the person convicted demonstrated honesty and truthfulness concerning the crime or crimes during the application and approval process and made reasonable efforts to assist the department in obtaining records and documents concerning the crime or crimes.(D) (i) The department or other approving entity shall grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider applicant, resource family applicant, or any person subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, who has been convicted of an offense not listed in subparagraph (A) or (B), if the individuals state and federal criminal history information received from the Department of Justice independently supports a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption.(ii) Notwithstanding the fact that an individual meets the criteria described in clause (i), the department or other approving entity, at its discretion, as necessary to protect the health and safety of a child, may evaluate a person described in clause (i), for purposes of making an exemption decision, pursuant to the criteria described in subparagraphs (B) and (C).(E) This paragraph shall not apply to licenses or approvals for which a caregiver was granted an exemption for a criminal conviction prior to January 1, 2018.(3) The department shall not prohibit a person from being employed or having contact with clients in a facility, certified family home, or resource family home on the basis of a denied criminal record exemption request or arrest information unless the department complies with the requirements of Section 1558 of this code or Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, as applicable.(h) (1) For purposes of compliance with this section, the department may permit an individual to transfer a current criminal record clearance, as defined in subdivision (a), from one facility to another, as long as the criminal record clearance has been processed through a state licensing district office, and is being transferred to another facility licensed by a state licensing district office. The request shall be in writing to the State Department of Social Services, and shall include a copy of the persons drivers license or valid identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, or a valid photo identification issued by another state or the United States government if the person is not a California resident. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the State Department of Social Services shall verify whether the individual has a clearance that can be transferred.(2) The State Department of Social Services shall hold criminal record clearances in its active files for a minimum of three years after an employee is no longer employed at a licensed facility in order for the criminal record clearance to be transferred.(3) A criminal record clearance or exemption processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority shall be accepted by the department or county upon notification of transfer.(4) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 concerning an individual whose criminal record clearance was originally processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, all of the following shall apply:(A) The Department of Justice shall process a request from the department or a county to receive the notice only if all of the following conditions are met:(i) The request shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the agency to be substituted to receive the notification.(ii) The request shall be for the same applicant type as the type for which the original clearance was obtained.(iii) The request shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(B) (i) On or before January 7, 2005, the department shall notify the Department of Justice of all county offices that have department-delegated licensing authority.(ii) The department shall notify the Department of Justice within 15 calendar days of the date on which a new county office receives department-delegated licensing authority or a countys delegated licensing authority is rescinded.(C) The Department of Justice shall charge the department, a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, or a county child welfare agency with criminal record clearance and exemption authority, a fee for each time a request to substitute the recipient agency is received for purposes of this paragraph. This fee shall not exceed the cost of providing the service.(i) The full criminal record obtained for purposes of this section may be used by the department or by a licensed adoption agency as a clearance required for adoption purposes.(j) If a licensee or facility is required by law to deny employment or to terminate employment of any employee based on written notification from the department that the employee has a prior criminal conviction or is determined unsuitable for employment under Section 1558, the licensee or facility shall not incur civil liability or unemployment insurance liability as a result of that denial or termination.(k) The State Department of Social Services may charge a reasonable fee for the costs of processing electronic fingerprint images and related information. |
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| 664 | 680 | | |
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| 665 | 681 | | 1522. The Legislature recognizes the need to generate timely and accurate positive fingerprint identification of applicants as a condition of issuing licenses, permits, or certificates of approval for persons to operate or provide direct care services in a community care facility, foster family home, or a certified family home or resource family of a licensed foster family agency. Therefore, the Legislature supports the use of the fingerprint live-scan technology, as identified in the long-range plan of the Department of Justice for fully automating the processing of fingerprints and other data by the year 1999, otherwise known as the California Crime Information Intelligence System (CAL-CII), to be used for applicant fingerprints. It is the intent of the Legislature in enacting this section to require the fingerprints of those individuals whose contact with community care clients may pose a risk to the clients health and safety. An individual shall be required to obtain either a criminal record clearance or a criminal record exemption from the State Department of Social Services before the individuals initial presence in a community care facility or certified family home.(a) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or special permit to a person to operate or manage a community care facility, the State Department of Social Services shall secure from an appropriate law enforcement agency a criminal record to determine whether the applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5 of the Penal Code, subdivision (b) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons, and subsequent arrest information pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(3) The following shall apply to the criminal record information:(A) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial.(C) If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the applicant and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact.(D) If the State Department of Social Services finds, after licensure, that the licensee, or any other person specified in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license may be revoked, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(E) An applicant and any other person specified in subdivision (b) shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice for the purpose of searching the criminal records of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in addition to the criminal records search required by this subdivision. If an applicant and all other persons described in subdivision (b) meet all of the conditions for licensure, except receipt of the Federal Bureau of Investigations criminal offender record information search response for the applicant or any of the persons described in subdivision (b), the department may issue a license if the applicant and each person described in subdivision (b) has signed and submitted a statement that the person has never been convicted of a crime in the United States, other than a traffic infraction, as prescribed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 42001 of the Vehicle Code. If, after licensure, or the issuance of a certificate of approval of a certified family home by a foster family agency, the department determines that the licensee or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has a criminal record, the department may revoke the license, or require a foster family agency to revoke the certificate of approval, pursuant to Section 1550. The department may also suspend the license or require a foster family agency to suspend the certificate of approval pending an administrative hearing pursuant to Section 1550.5.(F) The State Department of Social Services shall develop procedures to provide the individuals state and federal criminal history information with the written notification of the individuals exemption denial or revocation based on the criminal record. Receipt of the criminal history information shall be optional on the part of the individual, as set forth in the agencys procedures. The procedure shall protect the confidentiality and privacy of the individuals record, and the criminal history information shall not be made available to the employer.(G) Notwithstanding any other law, the department is authorized to provide an individual with a copy of the individuals state or federal level criminal offender record information search response as provided to that department by the Department of Justice if the department has denied a criminal background clearance based on this information and the individual makes a written request to the department for a copy specifying an address to which it is to be sent. The state or federal level criminal offender record information search response shall not be modified or altered from its form or content as provided by the Department of Justice and shall be provided to the address specified by the individual in the individuals written request. The department shall retain a copy of the individuals written request and the response and date provided.(b) (1) In addition to the applicant, this section shall be applicable to criminal record clearances and exemptions for the following persons:(A) Adults responsible for administration or direct supervision of staff.(B) Any adult, other than a client, residing in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home.(C) Any person who provides client assistance in dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene. Any nurse assistant or home health aide meeting the requirements of Section 1338.5 or 1736.6, respectively, who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee, and who has been certified or recertified on or after July 1, 1998, shall be deemed to meet the criminal record clearance requirements of this section. A certified nurse assistant and certified home health aide who will be providing client assistance and who falls under this exemption shall provide one copy of their current certification, prior to providing care, to the community care facility. The facility shall maintain the copy of the certification on file as long as care is being provided by the certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide at the facility or in a certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency. This paragraph does not restrict the right of the department to exclude a certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide from a licensed community care facility or certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1558.(D) Any staff person, volunteer, or employee who has contact with the clients.(E) Any adult who works in a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child.(F) If the applicant is a firm, partnership, association, or corporation, the chief executive officer or other person serving in like capacity.(G) Additional officers of the governing body of the applicant, or other persons with a financial interest in the applicant, as determined necessary by the department by regulation. The criteria used in the development of these regulations shall be based on the persons capability to exercise substantial influence over the operation of the facility.(2) The following persons are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) A medical professional, as defined in department regulations, who holds a valid license or certification from the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity and who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee if all of the following apply:(i) The criminal record of the person has been cleared as a condition of licensure or certification by the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity.(ii) The person is providing time-limited specialized clinical care or services.(iii) The person is providing care or services within the persons scope of practice.(iv) The person is not a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility.(B) A third-party repair person or similar retained contractor if all of the following apply:(i) The person is hired for a defined, time-limited job.(ii) The person is not left alone with clients.(iii) When clients are present in the room in which the repair person or contractor is working, a staff person who has a criminal record clearance or exemption is also present.(C) Employees of a licensed home health agency and other members of licensed hospice interdisciplinary teams who have a contract with a client or resident of the facility, certified family home, or resource family home and are in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home at the request of that client or residents legal decisionmaker. The exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility.(D) Clergy and other spiritual caregivers who are performing services in common areas of the community care facility, certified family home, or resource family home or who are advising an individual client at the request of, or with the permission of, the client or legal decisionmaker, are exempt from fingerprint and criminal background check requirements imposed by community care licensing. This exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care licensee or employee of the facility.(E) Members of fraternal, service, or similar organizations who conduct group activities for clients if all of the following apply:(i) Members are not left alone with clients.(ii) Members do not transport clients off the facility, certified family home, or resource family home premises.(iii) The same organization does not conduct group activities for clients more often than defined by the departments regulations.(3) In addition to the exemptions in paragraph (2), the following persons in foster family homes, resource family homes, certified family homes, and small family homes are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) Adult friends and family of the foster parent, who come into the home to visit for a length of time no longer than defined by the department in regulations, provided that the adult friends and family of the foster parent are not left alone with the foster children. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 362.04 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, may allow adult friends and family to provide short-term care to the foster child and act as an appropriate occasional short-term babysitter for the child.(B) Parents of a foster childs friend when the foster child is visiting the friends home and the friend, foster parent, or both are also present. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, may allow the parent of the foster childs friend to act as an appropriate, occasional short-term babysitter for the child without the friend being present.(C) Individuals who are engaged by a foster parent to provide short-term care to the child for periods not to exceed 24 hours. Caregivers shall use a reasonable and prudent parent standard in selecting appropriate individuals to act as appropriate occasional short-term babysitters.(4) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult day care and adult day support centers are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) Unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and service plan, a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to the client.(B) A volunteer if all of the following apply:(i) The volunteer is supervised by the licensee or a facility employee with a criminal record clearance or exemption.(ii) The volunteer is never left alone with clients.(iii) The volunteer does not provide any client assistance with dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene other than washing of hands.(5) (A) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult residential and social rehabilitation facilities, unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and services plan, are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1): a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to that client.(B) This subdivision does not prevent a licensee from requiring a criminal record clearance of any individual exempt from the requirements of this section, provided that the individual has client contact.(6) Any person similar to those described in this subdivision, as defined by the department in regulations.(c) (1) Subsequent to initial licensure, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempted from fingerprinting shall obtain either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) from the State Department of Social Services prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the facility. A person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall be fingerprinted and shall sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions. The licensee shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). These fingerprint images and related information shall be sent by electronic transmission in a manner approved by the State Department of Social Services and the Department of Justice for the purpose of obtaining a permanent set of fingerprints, and shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the licensee. A licensees failure to prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in the citation of a deficiency and the immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images and related information shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed stamped postcard for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints.(2) Within 14 calendar days of the receipt of the fingerprint images, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services of the criminal record information, as provided in subdivision (a). If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the licensee and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact within 14 calendar days of receipt of the fingerprint images. Documentation of the individuals clearance or exemption from disqualification shall be maintained by the licensee and be available for inspection. If new fingerprint images are required for processing, the Department of Justice shall, within 14 calendar days from the date of receipt of the fingerprints, notify the licensee that the fingerprints were illegible, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services, as required by Section 1522.04, and shall also notify the licensee by mail, within 14 days of electronic transmission of the fingerprints to the Department of Justice, if the person has no criminal history recorded. A violation of the regulations adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548.(3) Except for persons specified in subdivision (b) who are exempt from fingerprinting, the licensee shall endeavor to ascertain the previous employment history of persons required to be fingerprinted. If it is determined by the State Department of Social Services, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the State Department of Social Services shall notify the licensee to act immediately to terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility. The State Department of Social Services may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, except a minor traffic violation, the licensee shall, upon notification by the State Department of Social Services, act immediately to either (A) terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility; or (B) seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the facility until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered. A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by this paragraph shall result in a citation of deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(4) The department may issue an exemption from disqualification on its own motion pursuant to subdivision (g) if the persons criminal history indicates that the person is of good character based on the age, seriousness, and frequency of the conviction or convictions. The department, in consultation with interested parties, shall develop regulations to establish the criteria to grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to this paragraph.(5) Concurrently with notifying the licensee pursuant to paragraph (3), the department shall notify the affected individual of the right to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The individual may seek an exemption from disqualification only if the licensee terminates the persons employment or removes the person from the facility after receiving notice from the department pursuant to paragraph (3).(d) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or certificate of approval to any person or persons to operate a foster family home, certified family home as described in Section 1506, or resource family pursuant to Section 1517 of this code or Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall secure California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal history information to determine whether the applicant or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting has ever been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in subdivision (c) of Section 290 of the Penal Code, for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, subdivision (b) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall not issue a license or certificate of approval to any foster family home, certified family home, or resource family applicant who has not obtained both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g).(2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons.(3) Neither the Department of Justice nor the State Department of Social Services may charge a fee for the fingerprinting of an applicant for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval described in this subdivision. The record, if any, shall be taken into consideration when evaluating a prospective applicant.(4) The following shall apply to the criminal record information:(A) If the applicant or other persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting have convictions that would make the applicants home unfit as a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family, the license, special permit, certificate of approval, or presence shall be denied.(B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial.(C) For purposes of this subdivision, a criminal record clearance provided under Section 8712 of the Family Code may be used by the department or other approving authority.(D) To the same extent required for federal funding, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall submit a set of fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, in addition to the criminal records search required by subdivision (a).(5) Any person specified in this subdivision shall, as a part of the application, be fingerprinted and sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions or arrests for any crime against a child, spousal or cohabitant abuse, or any crime for which the department cannot grant an exemption if the person was convicted and shall submit these fingerprints to the licensing agency or other approving authority.(6) (A) Subsequent to initial licensure, certification, or approval, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall obtain both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance, or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the foster family home, certified family home, or resource family home. A foster family home licensee or foster family agency shall submit fingerprint images and related information of persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). A foster family home licensees or a foster family agencys failure to either prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in a citation of a deficiency, and the immediate civil penalties of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. A violation of the regulation adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550. The State Department of Social Services may assess penalties for continued violations, as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing.(B) Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints. Within five working days of the receipt of the criminal record or information regarding criminal convictions from the Department of Justice, the department shall notify the applicant of any criminal arrests or convictions. If no arrests or convictions are recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency with a statement of that fact concurrent with providing the information to the State Department of Social Services.(7) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application or presence shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g).(8) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds, after licensure or the granting of the certificate of approval, that the licensee, certified foster parent, resource family, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license or certificate of approval may be revoked or rescinded by the department or the foster family agency, whichever is applicable, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(e) (1) The State Department of Social Services shall not use a record of arrest to deny, revoke, rescind, or terminate any application, license, certificate of approval, employment, or residence unless the department investigates the incident and secures evidence, whether or not related to the incident of arrest, that is admissible in an administrative hearing to establish conduct by the person that may pose a risk to the health and safety of any person who is or may become a client.(2) The department shall not issue a criminal record clearance to a person who has been arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, or subdivision (b) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to the completion of an investigation pursuant to paragraph (1).(3) The State Department of Social Services is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties to inspect, license, and investigate community care facilities and individuals associated with a community care facility.(f) (1) For purposes of this chapter, a conviction means a plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere. Any action that the State Department of Social Services is permitted to take following the establishment of a conviction may be taken when the time for appeal has elapsed, when the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal, or when an order granting probation is made suspending the imposition of sentence, notwithstanding a subsequent order pursuant to Sections 1203.4 and 1203.4a of the Penal Code permitting the person to withdraw a plea of guilty and to enter a plea of not guilty, or setting aside the verdict of guilty, or dismissing the accusation, information, or indictment. For purposes of this chapter, the record of a conviction, or a copy thereof certified by the clerk of the court or by a judge of the court in which the conviction occurred, shall be conclusive evidence of the conviction. For purposes of this chapter, the arrest disposition report certified by the Department of Justice, or documents admissible in a criminal action pursuant to Section 969b of the Penal Code, shall be prima facie evidence of the conviction, notwithstanding any other law prohibiting the admission of these documents in a civil or administrative action.(2) For purposes of this chapter, the department shall consider criminal convictions from another state or federal court as if the criminal offense was committed in this state.(g) (1) Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision with respect to a foster care provider applicant, including a relative caregiver, nonrelative extended family member, or resource family, after review of the record, the department may grant an exemption from disqualification for a license or special permit as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a), or for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval as specified in paragraphs (4), (7), and (8) of subdivision (d), or for employment, residence, or presence in a community care facility as specified in paragraphs (3), (4), and (5) of subdivision (c), if the department has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant and the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, are of good character as to justify issuance of the license or special permit or granting an exemption for purposes of subdivision (c). Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision, an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision if the conviction was for any of the following offenses:(A) (i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the department may grant an exemption regarding the conviction for an offense described in paragraph (1), (2), (7), or (8) of subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code, if the employee or prospective employee has been rehabilitated as provided in Section 4852.03 of the Penal Code, has maintained the conduct required in Section 4852.05 of the Penal Code for at least 10 years, and has the recommendation of the district attorney representing the employees county of residence, or if the employee or prospective employee has received a certificate of rehabilitation pursuant to Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 4852.01) of Title 6 of Part 3 of the Penal Code.(B) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code.(C) (i) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (A), an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any applicant for licensure of a community care facility eligible to accept placement of a dependent child if either that applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is associated with the facility has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses:(I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subclause, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A) or subparagraph (B).(II) A felony conviction for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense that occurred within the last five years.(ii) This subparagraph shall be operative to the extent that compliance with these provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.).(2) (A) For a foster care provider applicant, a resource family applicant, or a prospective respite care provider, as described in Section 16501.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, an exemption shall not be granted if that applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, has a conviction for any of the following offenses:(i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code.(ii) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code.(iii) Under no circumstances shall an exemption be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any foster care provider applicant if that applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) in those homes, has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses:(I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subparagraph, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A), or clause (ii) of this subparagraph.(II) A felony conviction, within the last five years, for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense.(III) This clause shall not apply to licenses or approvals wherein a caregiver was granted an exemption to a criminal conviction described in clause (i) prior to the enactment of this clause.(IV) This clause shall remain operative only to the extent that compliance with its provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.).(B) The department or other approving entity may grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider, resource family applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, if the department or other approving entity has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption and the conviction is for one of the following offenses:(i) (I) Any misdemeanor conviction within the last five years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A).(II) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a misdemeanor conviction for statutory rape, as defined in Section 261.5 of the Penal Code, a misdemeanor conviction for indecent exposure, as defined in Section 314 of the Penal Code, or a misdemeanor conviction for financial abuse against an elder, as defined in Section 368 of the Penal Code, shall be eligible for the consideration of an exemption as set forth in subparagraph (C).(ii) Any felony conviction within the last seven years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A).(C) When granting an exemption for a crime listed in subparagraph (B), the department or other approving entity shall consider all reasonably available information, including, but not limited to, the following:(i) The nature of the crime or crimes.(ii) The period of time since the crime was committed.(iii) The number of offenses.(iv) Circumstances surrounding the commission of the crime indicating the likelihood of future criminal activity.(v) Activities since conviction, including employment, participation in therapy, education, or treatment.(vi) Whether the person convicted has successfully completed probation or parole, obtained a certificate of rehabilitation, or been granted a pardon by the Governor.(vii) Any character references or other evidence submitted by the applicant.(viii) Whether the person convicted demonstrated honesty and truthfulness concerning the crime or crimes during the application and approval process and made reasonable efforts to assist the department in obtaining records and documents concerning the crime or crimes.(D) (i) The department or other approving entity shall grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider applicant, resource family applicant, or any person subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, who has been convicted of an offense not listed in subparagraph (A) or (B), if the individuals state and federal criminal history information received from the Department of Justice independently supports a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption.(ii) Notwithstanding the fact that an individual meets the criteria described in clause (i), the department or other approving entity, at its discretion, as necessary to protect the health and safety of a child, may evaluate a person described in clause (i), for purposes of making an exemption decision, pursuant to the criteria described in subparagraphs (B) and (C).(E) This paragraph shall not apply to licenses or approvals for which a caregiver was granted an exemption for a criminal conviction prior to January 1, 2018.(3) The department shall not prohibit a person from being employed or having contact with clients in a facility, certified family home, or resource family home on the basis of a denied criminal record exemption request or arrest information unless the department complies with the requirements of Section 1558 of this code or Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, as applicable.(h) (1) For purposes of compliance with this section, the department may permit an individual to transfer a current criminal record clearance, as defined in subdivision (a), from one facility to another, as long as the criminal record clearance has been processed through a state licensing district office, and is being transferred to another facility licensed by a state licensing district office. The request shall be in writing to the State Department of Social Services, and shall include a copy of the persons drivers license or valid identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, or a valid photo identification issued by another state or the United States government if the person is not a California resident. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the State Department of Social Services shall verify whether the individual has a clearance that can be transferred.(2) The State Department of Social Services shall hold criminal record clearances in its active files for a minimum of three years after an employee is no longer employed at a licensed facility in order for the criminal record clearance to be transferred.(3) A criminal record clearance or exemption processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority shall be accepted by the department or county upon notification of transfer.(4) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 concerning an individual whose criminal record clearance was originally processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, all of the following shall apply:(A) The Department of Justice shall process a request from the department or a county to receive the notice only if all of the following conditions are met:(i) The request shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the agency to be substituted to receive the notification.(ii) The request shall be for the same applicant type as the type for which the original clearance was obtained.(iii) The request shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(B) (i) On or before January 7, 2005, the department shall notify the Department of Justice of all county offices that have department-delegated licensing authority.(ii) The department shall notify the Department of Justice within 15 calendar days of the date on which a new county office receives department-delegated licensing authority or a countys delegated licensing authority is rescinded.(C) The Department of Justice shall charge the department, a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, or a county child welfare agency with criminal record clearance and exemption authority, a fee for each time a request to substitute the recipient agency is received for purposes of this paragraph. This fee shall not exceed the cost of providing the service.(i) The full criminal record obtained for purposes of this section may be used by the department or by a licensed adoption agency as a clearance required for adoption purposes.(j) If a licensee or facility is required by law to deny employment or to terminate employment of any employee based on written notification from the department that the employee has a prior criminal conviction or is determined unsuitable for employment under Section 1558, the licensee or facility shall not incur civil liability or unemployment insurance liability as a result of that denial or termination.(k) The State Department of Social Services may charge a reasonable fee for the costs of processing electronic fingerprint images and related information. |
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| 667 | 683 | | 1522. The Legislature recognizes the need to generate timely and accurate positive fingerprint identification of applicants as a condition of issuing licenses, permits, or certificates of approval for persons to operate or provide direct care services in a community care facility, foster family home, or a certified family home or resource family of a licensed foster family agency. Therefore, the Legislature supports the use of the fingerprint live-scan technology, as identified in the long-range plan of the Department of Justice for fully automating the processing of fingerprints and other data by the year 1999, otherwise known as the California Crime Information Intelligence System (CAL-CII), to be used for applicant fingerprints. It is the intent of the Legislature in enacting this section to require the fingerprints of those individuals whose contact with community care clients may pose a risk to the clients health and safety. An individual shall be required to obtain either a criminal record clearance or a criminal record exemption from the State Department of Social Services before the individuals initial presence in a community care facility or certified family home.(a) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or special permit to a person to operate or manage a community care facility, the State Department of Social Services shall secure from an appropriate law enforcement agency a criminal record to determine whether the applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5 of the Penal Code, subdivision (b) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons, and subsequent arrest information pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(3) The following shall apply to the criminal record information:(A) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial.(C) If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the applicant and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact.(D) If the State Department of Social Services finds, after licensure, that the licensee, or any other person specified in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license may be revoked, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g).(E) An applicant and any other person specified in subdivision (b) shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice for the purpose of searching the criminal records of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in addition to the criminal records search required by this subdivision. If an applicant and all other persons described in subdivision (b) meet all of the conditions for licensure, except receipt of the Federal Bureau of Investigations criminal offender record information search response for the applicant or any of the persons described in subdivision (b), the department may issue a license if the applicant and each person described in subdivision (b) has signed and submitted a statement that the person has never been convicted of a crime in the United States, other than a traffic infraction, as prescribed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 42001 of the Vehicle Code. If, after licensure, or the issuance of a certificate of approval of a certified family home by a foster family agency, the department determines that the licensee or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has a criminal record, the department may revoke the license, or require a foster family agency to revoke the certificate of approval, pursuant to Section 1550. The department may also suspend the license or require a foster family agency to suspend the certificate of approval pending an administrative hearing pursuant to Section 1550.5.(F) The State Department of Social Services shall develop procedures to provide the individuals state and federal criminal history information with the written notification of the individuals exemption denial or revocation based on the criminal record. Receipt of the criminal history information shall be optional on the part of the individual, as set forth in the agencys procedures. The procedure shall protect the confidentiality and privacy of the individuals record, and the criminal history information shall not be made available to the employer.(G) Notwithstanding any other law, the department is authorized to provide an individual with a copy of the individuals state or federal level criminal offender record information search response as provided to that department by the Department of Justice if the department has denied a criminal background clearance based on this information and the individual makes a written request to the department for a copy specifying an address to which it is to be sent. The state or federal level criminal offender record information search response shall not be modified or altered from its form or content as provided by the Department of Justice and shall be provided to the address specified by the individual in the individuals written request. The department shall retain a copy of the individuals written request and the response and date provided.(b) (1) In addition to the applicant, this section shall be applicable to criminal record clearances and exemptions for the following persons:(A) Adults responsible for administration or direct supervision of staff.(B) Any adult, other than a client, residing in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home.(C) Any person who provides client assistance in dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene. Any nurse assistant or home health aide meeting the requirements of Section 1338.5 or 1736.6, respectively, who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee, and who has been certified or recertified on or after July 1, 1998, shall be deemed to meet the criminal record clearance requirements of this section. A certified nurse assistant and certified home health aide who will be providing client assistance and who falls under this exemption shall provide one copy of their current certification, prior to providing care, to the community care facility. The facility shall maintain the copy of the certification on file as long as care is being provided by the certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide at the facility or in a certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency. This paragraph does not restrict the right of the department to exclude a certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide from a licensed community care facility or certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1558.(D) Any staff person, volunteer, or employee who has contact with the clients.(E) Any adult who works in a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child.(F) If the applicant is a firm, partnership, association, or corporation, the chief executive officer or other person serving in like capacity.(G) Additional officers of the governing body of the applicant, or other persons with a financial interest in the applicant, as determined necessary by the department by regulation. The criteria used in the development of these regulations shall be based on the persons capability to exercise substantial influence over the operation of the facility.(2) The following persons are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) A medical professional, as defined in department regulations, who holds a valid license or certification from the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity and who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee if all of the following apply:(i) The criminal record of the person has been cleared as a condition of licensure or certification by the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity.(ii) The person is providing time-limited specialized clinical care or services.(iii) The person is providing care or services within the persons scope of practice.(iv) The person is not a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility.(B) A third-party repair person or similar retained contractor if all of the following apply:(i) The person is hired for a defined, time-limited job.(ii) The person is not left alone with clients.(iii) When clients are present in the room in which the repair person or contractor is working, a staff person who has a criminal record clearance or exemption is also present.(C) Employees of a licensed home health agency and other members of licensed hospice interdisciplinary teams who have a contract with a client or resident of the facility, certified family home, or resource family home and are in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home at the request of that client or residents legal decisionmaker. The exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility.(D) Clergy and other spiritual caregivers who are performing services in common areas of the community care facility, certified family home, or resource family home or who are advising an individual client at the request of, or with the permission of, the client or legal decisionmaker, are exempt from fingerprint and criminal background check requirements imposed by community care licensing. This exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care licensee or employee of the facility.(E) Members of fraternal, service, or similar organizations who conduct group activities for clients if all of the following apply:(i) Members are not left alone with clients.(ii) Members do not transport clients off the facility, certified family home, or resource family home premises.(iii) The same organization does not conduct group activities for clients more often than defined by the departments regulations.(3) In addition to the exemptions in paragraph (2), the following persons in foster family homes, resource family homes, certified family homes, and small family homes are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) Adult friends and family of the foster parent, who come into the home to visit for a length of time no longer than defined by the department in regulations, provided that the adult friends and family of the foster parent are not left alone with the foster children. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 362.04 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, may allow adult friends and family to provide short-term care to the foster child and act as an appropriate occasional short-term babysitter for the child.(B) Parents of a foster childs friend when the foster child is visiting the friends home and the friend, foster parent, or both are also present. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, may allow the parent of the foster childs friend to act as an appropriate, occasional short-term babysitter for the child without the friend being present.(C) Individuals who are engaged by a foster parent to provide short-term care to the child for periods not to exceed 24 hours. Caregivers shall use a reasonable and prudent parent standard in selecting appropriate individuals to act as appropriate occasional short-term babysitters.(4) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult day care and adult day support centers are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1):(A) Unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and service plan, a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to the client.(B) A volunteer if all of the following apply:(i) The volunteer is supervised by the licensee or a facility employee with a criminal record clearance or exemption.(ii) The volunteer is never left alone with clients.(iii) The volunteer does not provide any client assistance with dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene other than washing of hands.(5) (A) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult residential and social rehabilitation facilities, unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and services plan, are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1): a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to that client.(B) This subdivision does not prevent a licensee from requiring a criminal record clearance of any individual exempt from the requirements of this section, provided that the individual has client contact.(6) Any person similar to those described in this subdivision, as defined by the department in regulations.(c) (1) Subsequent to initial licensure, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempted from fingerprinting shall obtain either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) from the State Department of Social Services prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the facility. A person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall be fingerprinted and shall sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions. The licensee shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). These fingerprint images and related information shall be sent by electronic transmission in a manner approved by the State Department of Social Services and the Department of Justice for the purpose of obtaining a permanent set of fingerprints, and shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the licensee. A licensees failure to prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in the citation of a deficiency and the immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images and related information shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed stamped postcard for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints.(2) Within 14 calendar days of the receipt of the fingerprint images, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services of the criminal record information, as provided in subdivision (a). If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the licensee and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact within 14 calendar days of receipt of the fingerprint images. Documentation of the individuals clearance or exemption from disqualification shall be maintained by the licensee and be available for inspection. If new fingerprint images are required for processing, the Department of Justice shall, within 14 calendar days from the date of receipt of the fingerprints, notify the licensee that the fingerprints were illegible, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services, as required by Section 1522.04, and shall also notify the licensee by mail, within 14 days of electronic transmission of the fingerprints to the Department of Justice, if the person has no criminal history recorded. A violation of the regulations adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548.(3) Except for persons specified in subdivision (b) who are exempt from fingerprinting, the licensee shall endeavor to ascertain the previous employment history of persons required to be fingerprinted. If it is determined by the State Department of Social Services, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the State Department of Social Services shall notify the licensee to act immediately to terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility. The State Department of Social Services may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, except a minor traffic violation, the licensee shall, upon notification by the State Department of Social Services, act immediately to either (A) terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility; or (B) seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the facility until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered. A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by this paragraph shall result in a citation of deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(4) The department may issue an exemption from disqualification on its own motion pursuant to subdivision (g) if the persons criminal history indicates that the person is of good character based on the age, seriousness, and frequency of the conviction or convictions. The department, in consultation with interested parties, shall develop regulations to establish the criteria to grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to this paragraph.(5) Concurrently with notifying the licensee pursuant to paragraph (3), the department shall notify the affected individual of the right to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The individual may seek an exemption from disqualification only if the licensee terminates the persons employment or removes the person from the facility after receiving notice from the department pursuant to paragraph (3).(d) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or certificate of approval to any person or persons to operate a foster family home, certified family home as described in Section 1506, or resource family pursuant to Section 1517 of this code or Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall secure California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal history information to determine whether the applicant or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting has ever been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in subdivision (c) of Section 290 of the Penal Code, for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, subdivision (b) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall not issue a license or certificate of approval to any foster family home, certified family home, or resource family applicant who has not obtained both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g).(2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons.(3) Neither the Department of Justice nor the State Department of Social Services may charge a fee for the fingerprinting of an applicant for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval described in this subdivision. The record, if any, shall be taken into consideration when evaluating a prospective applicant.(4) The following shall apply to the criminal record information:(A) If the applicant or other persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting have convictions that would make the applicants home unfit as a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family, the license, special permit, certificate of approval, or presence shall be denied.(B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial.(C) For purposes of this subdivision, a criminal record clearance provided under Section 8712 of the Family Code may be used by the department or other approving authority.(D) To the same extent required for federal funding, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall submit a set of fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, in addition to the criminal records search required by subdivision (a).(5) Any person specified in this subdivision shall, as a part of the application, be fingerprinted and sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions or arrests for any crime against a child, spousal or cohabitant abuse, or any crime for which the department cannot grant an exemption if the person was convicted and shall submit these fingerprints to the licensing agency or other approving authority.(6) (A) Subsequent to initial licensure, certification, or approval, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall obtain both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance, or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the foster family home, certified family home, or resource family home. A foster family home licensee or foster family agency shall submit fingerprint images and related information of persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). A foster family home licensees or a foster family agencys failure to either prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in a citation of a deficiency, and the immediate civil penalties of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. A violation of the regulation adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550. The State Department of Social Services may assess penalties for continued violations, as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing.(B) Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints. Within five working days of the receipt of the criminal record or information regarding criminal convictions from the Department of Justice, the department shall notify the applicant of any criminal arrests or convictions. If no arrests or convictions are recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency with a statement of that fact concurrent with providing the information to the State Department of Social Services.(7) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application or presence shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g).(8) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds, after licensure or the granting of the certificate of approval, that the licensee, certified foster parent, resource family, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license or certificate of approval may be revoked or rescinded by the department or the foster family agency, whichever is applicable, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(e) (1) The State Department of Social Services shall not use a record of arrest to deny, revoke, rescind, or terminate any application, license, certificate of approval, employment, or residence unless the department investigates the incident and secures evidence, whether or not related to the incident of arrest, that is admissible in an administrative hearing to establish conduct by the person that may pose a risk to the health and safety of any person who is or may become a client.(2) The department shall not issue a criminal record clearance to a person who has been arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, or subdivision (b) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to the completion of an investigation pursuant to paragraph (1).(3) The State Department of Social Services is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties to inspect, license, and investigate community care facilities and individuals associated with a community care facility.(f) (1) For purposes of this chapter, a conviction means a plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere. Any action that the State Department of Social Services is permitted to take following the establishment of a conviction may be taken when the time for appeal has elapsed, when the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal, or when an order granting probation is made suspending the imposition of sentence, notwithstanding a subsequent order pursuant to Sections 1203.4 and 1203.4a of the Penal Code permitting the person to withdraw a plea of guilty and to enter a plea of not guilty, or setting aside the verdict of guilty, or dismissing the accusation, information, or indictment. For purposes of this chapter, the record of a conviction, or a copy thereof certified by the clerk of the court or by a judge of the court in which the conviction occurred, shall be conclusive evidence of the conviction. For purposes of this chapter, the arrest disposition report certified by the Department of Justice, or documents admissible in a criminal action pursuant to Section 969b of the Penal Code, shall be prima facie evidence of the conviction, notwithstanding any other law prohibiting the admission of these documents in a civil or administrative action.(2) For purposes of this chapter, the department shall consider criminal convictions from another state or federal court as if the criminal offense was committed in this state.(g) (1) Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision with respect to a foster care provider applicant, including a relative caregiver, nonrelative extended family member, or resource family, after review of the record, the department may grant an exemption from disqualification for a license or special permit as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a), or for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval as specified in paragraphs (4), (7), and (8) of subdivision (d), or for employment, residence, or presence in a community care facility as specified in paragraphs (3), (4), and (5) of subdivision (c), if the department has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant and the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, are of good character as to justify issuance of the license or special permit or granting an exemption for purposes of subdivision (c). Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision, an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision if the conviction was for any of the following offenses:(A) (i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the department may grant an exemption regarding the conviction for an offense described in paragraph (1), (2), (7), or (8) of subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code, if the employee or prospective employee has been rehabilitated as provided in Section 4852.03 of the Penal Code, has maintained the conduct required in Section 4852.05 of the Penal Code for at least 10 years, and has the recommendation of the district attorney representing the employees county of residence, or if the employee or prospective employee has received a certificate of rehabilitation pursuant to Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 4852.01) of Title 6 of Part 3 of the Penal Code.(B) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code.(C) (i) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (A), an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any applicant for licensure of a community care facility eligible to accept placement of a dependent child if either that applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is associated with the facility has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses:(I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subclause, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A) or subparagraph (B).(II) A felony conviction for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense that occurred within the last five years.(ii) This subparagraph shall be operative to the extent that compliance with these provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.).(2) (A) For a foster care provider applicant, a resource family applicant, or a prospective respite care provider, as described in Section 16501.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, an exemption shall not be granted if that applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, has a conviction for any of the following offenses:(i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code.(ii) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code.(iii) Under no circumstances shall an exemption be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any foster care provider applicant if that applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) in those homes, has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses:(I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subparagraph, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A), or clause (ii) of this subparagraph.(II) A felony conviction, within the last five years, for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense.(III) This clause shall not apply to licenses or approvals wherein a caregiver was granted an exemption to a criminal conviction described in clause (i) prior to the enactment of this clause.(IV) This clause shall remain operative only to the extent that compliance with its provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.).(B) The department or other approving entity may grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider, resource family applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, if the department or other approving entity has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption and the conviction is for one of the following offenses:(i) (I) Any misdemeanor conviction within the last five years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A).(II) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a misdemeanor conviction for statutory rape, as defined in Section 261.5 of the Penal Code, a misdemeanor conviction for indecent exposure, as defined in Section 314 of the Penal Code, or a misdemeanor conviction for financial abuse against an elder, as defined in Section 368 of the Penal Code, shall be eligible for the consideration of an exemption as set forth in subparagraph (C).(ii) Any felony conviction within the last seven years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A).(C) When granting an exemption for a crime listed in subparagraph (B), the department or other approving entity shall consider all reasonably available information, including, but not limited to, the following:(i) The nature of the crime or crimes.(ii) The period of time since the crime was committed.(iii) The number of offenses.(iv) Circumstances surrounding the commission of the crime indicating the likelihood of future criminal activity.(v) Activities since conviction, including employment, participation in therapy, education, or treatment.(vi) Whether the person convicted has successfully completed probation or parole, obtained a certificate of rehabilitation, or been granted a pardon by the Governor.(vii) Any character references or other evidence submitted by the applicant.(viii) Whether the person convicted demonstrated honesty and truthfulness concerning the crime or crimes during the application and approval process and made reasonable efforts to assist the department in obtaining records and documents concerning the crime or crimes.(D) (i) The department or other approving entity shall grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider applicant, resource family applicant, or any person subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, who has been convicted of an offense not listed in subparagraph (A) or (B), if the individuals state and federal criminal history information received from the Department of Justice independently supports a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption.(ii) Notwithstanding the fact that an individual meets the criteria described in clause (i), the department or other approving entity, at its discretion, as necessary to protect the health and safety of a child, may evaluate a person described in clause (i), for purposes of making an exemption decision, pursuant to the criteria described in subparagraphs (B) and (C).(E) This paragraph shall not apply to licenses or approvals for which a caregiver was granted an exemption for a criminal conviction prior to January 1, 2018.(3) The department shall not prohibit a person from being employed or having contact with clients in a facility, certified family home, or resource family home on the basis of a denied criminal record exemption request or arrest information unless the department complies with the requirements of Section 1558 of this code or Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, as applicable.(h) (1) For purposes of compliance with this section, the department may permit an individual to transfer a current criminal record clearance, as defined in subdivision (a), from one facility to another, as long as the criminal record clearance has been processed through a state licensing district office, and is being transferred to another facility licensed by a state licensing district office. The request shall be in writing to the State Department of Social Services, and shall include a copy of the persons drivers license or valid identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, or a valid photo identification issued by another state or the United States government if the person is not a California resident. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the State Department of Social Services shall verify whether the individual has a clearance that can be transferred.(2) The State Department of Social Services shall hold criminal record clearances in its active files for a minimum of three years after an employee is no longer employed at a licensed facility in order for the criminal record clearance to be transferred.(3) A criminal record clearance or exemption processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority shall be accepted by the department or county upon notification of transfer.(4) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 concerning an individual whose criminal record clearance was originally processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, all of the following shall apply:(A) The Department of Justice shall process a request from the department or a county to receive the notice only if all of the following conditions are met:(i) The request shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the agency to be substituted to receive the notification.(ii) The request shall be for the same applicant type as the type for which the original clearance was obtained.(iii) The request shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(B) (i) On or before January 7, 2005, the department shall notify the Department of Justice of all county offices that have department-delegated licensing authority.(ii) The department shall notify the Department of Justice within 15 calendar days of the date on which a new county office receives department-delegated licensing authority or a countys delegated licensing authority is rescinded.(C) The Department of Justice shall charge the department, a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, or a county child welfare agency with criminal record clearance and exemption authority, a fee for each time a request to substitute the recipient agency is received for purposes of this paragraph. This fee shall not exceed the cost of providing the service.(i) The full criminal record obtained for purposes of this section may be used by the department or by a licensed adoption agency as a clearance required for adoption purposes.(j) If a licensee or facility is required by law to deny employment or to terminate employment of any employee based on written notification from the department that the employee has a prior criminal conviction or is determined unsuitable for employment under Section 1558, the licensee or facility shall not incur civil liability or unemployment insurance liability as a result of that denial or termination.(k) The State Department of Social Services may charge a reasonable fee for the costs of processing electronic fingerprint images and related information. |
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| 668 | 684 | | |
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| 669 | 685 | | |
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| 670 | 686 | | |
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| 671 | 687 | | 1522. The Legislature recognizes the need to generate timely and accurate positive fingerprint identification of applicants as a condition of issuing licenses, permits, or certificates of approval for persons to operate or provide direct care services in a community care facility, foster family home, or a certified family home or resource family of a licensed foster family agency. Therefore, the Legislature supports the use of the fingerprint live-scan technology, as identified in the long-range plan of the Department of Justice for fully automating the processing of fingerprints and other data by the year 1999, otherwise known as the California Crime Information Intelligence System (CAL-CII), to be used for applicant fingerprints. It is the intent of the Legislature in enacting this section to require the fingerprints of those individuals whose contact with community care clients may pose a risk to the clients health and safety. An individual shall be required to obtain either a criminal record clearance or a criminal record exemption from the State Department of Social Services before the individuals initial presence in a community care facility or certified family home. |
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| 672 | 688 | | |
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| 673 | 689 | | (a) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or special permit to a person to operate or manage a community care facility, the State Department of Social Services shall secure from an appropriate law enforcement agency a criminal record to determine whether the applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5 of the Penal Code, subdivision (b) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g). |
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| 674 | 690 | | |
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| 675 | 691 | | (2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons, and subsequent arrest information pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code. |
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| 676 | 692 | | |
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| 677 | 693 | | (3) The following shall apply to the criminal record information: |
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| 678 | 694 | | |
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| 679 | 695 | | (A) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g). |
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| 680 | 696 | | |
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| 681 | 697 | | (B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b), is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial. |
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| 682 | 698 | | |
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| 683 | 699 | | (C) If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the applicant and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact. |
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| 684 | 700 | | |
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| 685 | 701 | | (D) If the State Department of Social Services finds, after licensure, that the licensee, or any other person specified in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b), has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license may be revoked, unless the department grants an exemption pursuant to subdivision (g). |
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| 686 | 702 | | |
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| 687 | 703 | | (E) An applicant and any other person specified in subdivision (b) shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice for the purpose of searching the criminal records of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in addition to the criminal records search required by this subdivision. If an applicant and all other persons described in subdivision (b) meet all of the conditions for licensure, except receipt of the Federal Bureau of Investigations criminal offender record information search response for the applicant or any of the persons described in subdivision (b), the department may issue a license if the applicant and each person described in subdivision (b) has signed and submitted a statement that the person has never been convicted of a crime in the United States, other than a traffic infraction, as prescribed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 42001 of the Vehicle Code. If, after licensure, or the issuance of a certificate of approval of a certified family home by a foster family agency, the department determines that the licensee or any other person specified in subdivision (b) has a criminal record, the department may revoke the license, or require a foster family agency to revoke the certificate of approval, pursuant to Section 1550. The department may also suspend the license or require a foster family agency to suspend the certificate of approval pending an administrative hearing pursuant to Section 1550.5. |
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| 688 | 704 | | |
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| 689 | 705 | | (F) The State Department of Social Services shall develop procedures to provide the individuals state and federal criminal history information with the written notification of the individuals exemption denial or revocation based on the criminal record. Receipt of the criminal history information shall be optional on the part of the individual, as set forth in the agencys procedures. The procedure shall protect the confidentiality and privacy of the individuals record, and the criminal history information shall not be made available to the employer. |
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| 690 | 706 | | |
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| 691 | 707 | | (G) Notwithstanding any other law, the department is authorized to provide an individual with a copy of the individuals state or federal level criminal offender record information search response as provided to that department by the Department of Justice if the department has denied a criminal background clearance based on this information and the individual makes a written request to the department for a copy specifying an address to which it is to be sent. The state or federal level criminal offender record information search response shall not be modified or altered from its form or content as provided by the Department of Justice and shall be provided to the address specified by the individual in the individuals written request. The department shall retain a copy of the individuals written request and the response and date provided. |
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| 692 | 708 | | |
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| 693 | 709 | | (b) (1) In addition to the applicant, this section shall be applicable to criminal record clearances and exemptions for the following persons: |
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| 694 | 710 | | |
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| 695 | 711 | | (A) Adults responsible for administration or direct supervision of staff. |
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| 696 | 712 | | |
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| 697 | 713 | | (B) Any adult, other than a client, residing in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home. |
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| 698 | 714 | | |
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| 699 | 715 | | (C) Any person who provides client assistance in dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene. Any nurse assistant or home health aide meeting the requirements of Section 1338.5 or 1736.6, respectively, who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee, and who has been certified or recertified on or after July 1, 1998, shall be deemed to meet the criminal record clearance requirements of this section. A certified nurse assistant and certified home health aide who will be providing client assistance and who falls under this exemption shall provide one copy of their current certification, prior to providing care, to the community care facility. The facility shall maintain the copy of the certification on file as long as care is being provided by the certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide at the facility or in a certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency. This paragraph does not restrict the right of the department to exclude a certified nurse assistant or certified home health aide from a licensed community care facility or certified family home or resource family home of a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1558. |
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| 700 | 716 | | |
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| 701 | 717 | | (D) Any staff person, volunteer, or employee who has contact with the clients. |
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| 702 | 718 | | |
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| 703 | 719 | | (E) Any adult who works in a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child. |
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| 704 | 720 | | |
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| 705 | 721 | | (F) If the applicant is a firm, partnership, association, or corporation, the chief executive officer or other person serving in like capacity. |
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| 706 | 722 | | |
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| 707 | 723 | | (G) Additional officers of the governing body of the applicant, or other persons with a financial interest in the applicant, as determined necessary by the department by regulation. The criteria used in the development of these regulations shall be based on the persons capability to exercise substantial influence over the operation of the facility. |
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| 708 | 724 | | |
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| 709 | 725 | | (2) The following persons are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1): |
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| 710 | 726 | | |
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| 711 | 727 | | (A) A medical professional, as defined in department regulations, who holds a valid license or certification from the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity and who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee if all of the following apply: |
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| 712 | 728 | | |
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| 713 | 729 | | (i) The criminal record of the person has been cleared as a condition of licensure or certification by the persons governing California medical care regulatory entity. |
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| 714 | 730 | | |
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| 715 | 731 | | (ii) The person is providing time-limited specialized clinical care or services. |
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| 716 | 732 | | |
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| 717 | 733 | | (iii) The person is providing care or services within the persons scope of practice. |
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| 718 | 734 | | |
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| 719 | 735 | | (iv) The person is not a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility. |
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| 720 | 736 | | |
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| 721 | 737 | | (B) A third-party repair person or similar retained contractor if all of the following apply: |
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| 722 | 738 | | |
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| 723 | 739 | | (i) The person is hired for a defined, time-limited job. |
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| 724 | 740 | | |
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| 725 | 741 | | (ii) The person is not left alone with clients. |
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| 726 | 742 | | |
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| 727 | 743 | | (iii) When clients are present in the room in which the repair person or contractor is working, a staff person who has a criminal record clearance or exemption is also present. |
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| 728 | 744 | | |
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| 729 | 745 | | (C) Employees of a licensed home health agency and other members of licensed hospice interdisciplinary teams who have a contract with a client or resident of the facility, certified family home, or resource family home and are in the facility, certified family home, or resource family home at the request of that client or residents legal decisionmaker. The exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care facility licensee or an employee of the facility. |
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| 730 | 746 | | |
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| 731 | 747 | | (D) Clergy and other spiritual caregivers who are performing services in common areas of the community care facility, certified family home, or resource family home or who are advising an individual client at the request of, or with the permission of, the client or legal decisionmaker, are exempt from fingerprint and criminal background check requirements imposed by community care licensing. This exemption does not apply to a person who is a community care licensee or employee of the facility. |
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| 732 | 748 | | |
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| 733 | 749 | | (E) Members of fraternal, service, or similar organizations who conduct group activities for clients if all of the following apply: |
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| 734 | 750 | | |
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| 735 | 751 | | (i) Members are not left alone with clients. |
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| 736 | 752 | | |
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| 737 | 753 | | (ii) Members do not transport clients off the facility, certified family home, or resource family home premises. |
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| 738 | 754 | | |
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| 739 | 755 | | (iii) The same organization does not conduct group activities for clients more often than defined by the departments regulations. |
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| 740 | 756 | | |
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| 741 | 757 | | (3) In addition to the exemptions in paragraph (2), the following persons in foster family homes, resource family homes, certified family homes, and small family homes are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1): |
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| 742 | 758 | | |
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| 743 | 759 | | (A) Adult friends and family of the foster parent, who come into the home to visit for a length of time no longer than defined by the department in regulations, provided that the adult friends and family of the foster parent are not left alone with the foster children. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 362.04 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, may allow adult friends and family to provide short-term care to the foster child and act as an appropriate occasional short-term babysitter for the child. |
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| 744 | 760 | | |
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| 745 | 761 | | (B) Parents of a foster childs friend when the foster child is visiting the friends home and the friend, foster parent, or both are also present. However, the foster parent, acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, may allow the parent of the foster childs friend to act as an appropriate, occasional short-term babysitter for the child without the friend being present. |
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| 746 | 762 | | |
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| 747 | 763 | | (C) Individuals who are engaged by a foster parent to provide short-term care to the child for periods not to exceed 24 hours. Caregivers shall use a reasonable and prudent parent standard in selecting appropriate individuals to act as appropriate occasional short-term babysitters. |
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| 748 | 764 | | |
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| 749 | 765 | | (4) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult day care and adult day support centers are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1): |
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| 750 | 766 | | |
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| 751 | 767 | | (A) Unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and service plan, a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to the client. |
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| 752 | 768 | | |
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| 753 | 769 | | (B) A volunteer if all of the following apply: |
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| 754 | 770 | | |
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| 755 | 771 | | (i) The volunteer is supervised by the licensee or a facility employee with a criminal record clearance or exemption. |
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| 756 | 772 | | |
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| 757 | 773 | | (ii) The volunteer is never left alone with clients. |
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| 758 | 774 | | |
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| 759 | 775 | | (iii) The volunteer does not provide any client assistance with dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene other than washing of hands. |
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| 760 | 776 | | |
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| 761 | 777 | | (5) (A) In addition to the exemptions specified in paragraph (2), the following persons in adult residential and social rehabilitation facilities, unless contraindicated by the clients individualized program plan (IPP) or needs and services plan, are exempt from the requirements applicable under paragraph (1): a spouse, significant other, relative, or close friend of a client, or an attendant or a facilitator for a client with a developmental disability if the attendant or facilitator is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee. This exemption applies only if the person is visiting the client or providing direct care and supervision to that client. |
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| 762 | 778 | | |
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| 763 | 779 | | (B) This subdivision does not prevent a licensee from requiring a criminal record clearance of any individual exempt from the requirements of this section, provided that the individual has client contact. |
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| 764 | 780 | | |
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| 765 | 781 | | (6) Any person similar to those described in this subdivision, as defined by the department in regulations. |
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| 766 | 782 | | |
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| 767 | 783 | | (c) (1) Subsequent to initial licensure, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempted from fingerprinting shall obtain either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) from the State Department of Social Services prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the facility. A person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall be fingerprinted and shall sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions. The licensee shall submit fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). These fingerprint images and related information shall be sent by electronic transmission in a manner approved by the State Department of Social Services and the Department of Justice for the purpose of obtaining a permanent set of fingerprints, and shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the licensee. A licensees failure to prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in the citation of a deficiency and the immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images and related information shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed stamped postcard for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints. |
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| 768 | 784 | | |
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| 769 | 785 | | (2) Within 14 calendar days of the receipt of the fingerprint images, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services of the criminal record information, as provided in subdivision (a). If no criminal record information has been recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the licensee and the State Department of Social Services with a statement of that fact within 14 calendar days of receipt of the fingerprint images. Documentation of the individuals clearance or exemption from disqualification shall be maintained by the licensee and be available for inspection. If new fingerprint images are required for processing, the Department of Justice shall, within 14 calendar days from the date of receipt of the fingerprints, notify the licensee that the fingerprints were illegible, the Department of Justice shall notify the State Department of Social Services, as required by Section 1522.04, and shall also notify the licensee by mail, within 14 days of electronic transmission of the fingerprints to the Department of Justice, if the person has no criminal history recorded. A violation of the regulations adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. The department may assess civil penalties for continued violations as permitted by Section 1548. |
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| 770 | 786 | | |
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| 771 | 787 | | (3) Except for persons specified in subdivision (b) who are exempt from fingerprinting, the licensee shall endeavor to ascertain the previous employment history of persons required to be fingerprinted. If it is determined by the State Department of Social Services, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the State Department of Social Services shall notify the licensee to act immediately to terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility. The State Department of Social Services may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, except a minor traffic violation, the licensee shall, upon notification by the State Department of Social Services, act immediately to either (A) terminate the persons employment, remove the person from the community care facility, or bar the person from entering the community care facility; or (B) seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the facility until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered. A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by this paragraph shall result in a citation of deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. |
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| 772 | 788 | | |
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| 773 | 789 | | (4) The department may issue an exemption from disqualification on its own motion pursuant to subdivision (g) if the persons criminal history indicates that the person is of good character based on the age, seriousness, and frequency of the conviction or convictions. The department, in consultation with interested parties, shall develop regulations to establish the criteria to grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to this paragraph. |
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| 774 | 790 | | |
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| 775 | 791 | | (5) Concurrently with notifying the licensee pursuant to paragraph (3), the department shall notify the affected individual of the right to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). The individual may seek an exemption from disqualification only if the licensee terminates the persons employment or removes the person from the facility after receiving notice from the department pursuant to paragraph (3). |
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| 776 | 792 | | |
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| 777 | 793 | | (d) (1) Before and, as applicable, subsequent to issuing a license or certificate of approval to any person or persons to operate a foster family home, certified family home as described in Section 1506, or resource family pursuant to Section 1517 of this code or Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall secure California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal history information to determine whether the applicant or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting has ever been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for any crime specified in subdivision (c) of Section 290 of the Penal Code, for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, subdivision (b) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g). The State Department of Social Services or other approving authority shall not issue a license or certificate of approval to any foster family home, certified family home, or resource family applicant who has not obtained both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). |
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| 778 | 794 | | |
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| 779 | 795 | | (2) The criminal history information shall include the full criminal record, if any, of those persons. |
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| 780 | 796 | | |
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| 781 | 797 | | (3) Neither the Department of Justice nor the State Department of Social Services may charge a fee for the fingerprinting of an applicant for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval described in this subdivision. The record, if any, shall be taken into consideration when evaluating a prospective applicant. |
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| 782 | 798 | | |
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| 783 | 799 | | (4) The following shall apply to the criminal record information: |
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| 784 | 800 | | |
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| 785 | 801 | | (A) If the applicant or other persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting have convictions that would make the applicants home unfit as a foster family home, a certified family home, or resource family, the license, special permit, certificate of approval, or presence shall be denied. |
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| 786 | 802 | | |
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| 787 | 803 | | (B) If the State Department of Social Services finds that the applicant, or any person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting is awaiting trial for a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority may cease processing the criminal record information until the conclusion of the trial. |
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| 788 | 804 | | |
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| 789 | 805 | | (C) For purposes of this subdivision, a criminal record clearance provided under Section 8712 of the Family Code may be used by the department or other approving authority. |
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| 790 | 806 | | |
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| 791 | 807 | | (D) To the same extent required for federal funding, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall submit a set of fingerprint images and related information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, in addition to the criminal records search required by subdivision (a). |
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| 792 | 808 | | |
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| 793 | 809 | | (5) Any person specified in this subdivision shall, as a part of the application, be fingerprinted and sign a declaration under penalty of perjury regarding any prior criminal convictions or arrests for any crime against a child, spousal or cohabitant abuse, or any crime for which the department cannot grant an exemption if the person was convicted and shall submit these fingerprints to the licensing agency or other approving authority. |
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| 794 | 810 | | |
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| 795 | 811 | | (6) (A) Subsequent to initial licensure, certification, or approval, a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting shall obtain both a California and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record clearance, or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to employment, residence, or initial presence in the foster family home, certified family home, or resource family home. A foster family home licensee or foster family agency shall submit fingerprint images and related information of persons specified in subdivision (b) who are not exempt from fingerprinting to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, through the Department of Justice, for a state and federal level criminal offender record information search, or to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h). A foster family home licensees or a foster family agencys failure to either prohibit the employment, residence, or initial presence of a person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting and who has not received either a criminal record clearance or an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g), or comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (h), as required in this section, shall result in a citation of a deficiency, and the immediate civil penalties of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. A violation of the regulation adopted pursuant to Section 1522.04 shall result in the citation of a deficiency and an immediate assessment of civil penalties in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation per day for a maximum of five days, unless the violation is a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period in which case the civil penalties shall be in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100) per violation for a maximum of 30 days, and shall be grounds for disciplining the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency pursuant to Section 1550. The State Department of Social Services may assess penalties for continued violations, as permitted by Section 1548. The fingerprint images shall then be submitted to the Department of Justice for processing. |
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| 796 | 812 | | |
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| 797 | 813 | | (B) Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the Department of Justice shall verify receipt of the fingerprints. Within five working days of the receipt of the criminal record or information regarding criminal convictions from the Department of Justice, the department shall notify the applicant of any criminal arrests or convictions. If no arrests or convictions are recorded, the Department of Justice shall provide the foster family home licensee or the foster family agency with a statement of that fact concurrent with providing the information to the State Department of Social Services. |
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| 798 | 814 | | |
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| 799 | 815 | | (7) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds that the applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the application or presence shall be denied, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). |
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| 800 | 816 | | |
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| 801 | 817 | | (8) If the State Department of Social Services or other approving authority finds, after licensure or the granting of the certificate of approval, that the licensee, certified foster parent, resource family, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is not exempt from fingerprinting, has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation, the license or certificate of approval may be revoked or rescinded by the department or the foster family agency, whichever is applicable, unless the department grants an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g). A licensees failure to comply with the departments prohibition of employment, contact with clients, or presence in the facility as required by paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. |
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| 802 | 818 | | |
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| 803 | 819 | | (e) (1) The State Department of Social Services shall not use a record of arrest to deny, revoke, rescind, or terminate any application, license, certificate of approval, employment, or residence unless the department investigates the incident and secures evidence, whether or not related to the incident of arrest, that is admissible in an administrative hearing to establish conduct by the person that may pose a risk to the health and safety of any person who is or may become a client. |
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| 804 | 820 | | |
|---|
| 805 | 821 | | (2) The department shall not issue a criminal record clearance to a person who has been arrested for any crime specified in Section 290 of the Penal Code, or for violating Section 245, 273ab, or 273.5, or subdivision (b) of Section 273a, of the Penal Code, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (2) of Section 273a of the Penal Code, or for any crime for which the department is prohibited from granting a criminal record exemption pursuant to subdivision (g), prior to the completion of an investigation pursuant to paragraph (1). |
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| 806 | 822 | | |
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| 807 | 823 | | (3) The State Department of Social Services is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties to inspect, license, and investigate community care facilities and individuals associated with a community care facility. |
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| 808 | 824 | | |
|---|
| 809 | 825 | | (f) (1) For purposes of this chapter, a conviction means a plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere. Any action that the State Department of Social Services is permitted to take following the establishment of a conviction may be taken when the time for appeal has elapsed, when the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal, or when an order granting probation is made suspending the imposition of sentence, notwithstanding a subsequent order pursuant to Sections 1203.4 and 1203.4a of the Penal Code permitting the person to withdraw a plea of guilty and to enter a plea of not guilty, or setting aside the verdict of guilty, or dismissing the accusation, information, or indictment. For purposes of this chapter, the record of a conviction, or a copy thereof certified by the clerk of the court or by a judge of the court in which the conviction occurred, shall be conclusive evidence of the conviction. For purposes of this chapter, the arrest disposition report certified by the Department of Justice, or documents admissible in a criminal action pursuant to Section 969b of the Penal Code, shall be prima facie evidence of the conviction, notwithstanding any other law prohibiting the admission of these documents in a civil or administrative action. |
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| 810 | 826 | | |
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| 811 | 827 | | (2) For purposes of this chapter, the department shall consider criminal convictions from another state or federal court as if the criminal offense was committed in this state. |
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| 812 | 828 | | |
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| 813 | 829 | | (g) (1) Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision with respect to a foster care provider applicant, including a relative caregiver, nonrelative extended family member, or resource family, after review of the record, the department may grant an exemption from disqualification for a license or special permit as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a), or for a license, special permit, or certificate of approval as specified in paragraphs (4), (7), and (8) of subdivision (d), or for employment, residence, or presence in a community care facility as specified in paragraphs (3), (4), and (5) of subdivision (c), if the department has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant and the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, are of good character as to justify issuance of the license or special permit or granting an exemption for purposes of subdivision (c). Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision, an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision if the conviction was for any of the following offenses: |
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| 814 | 830 | | |
|---|
| 815 | 831 | | (A) (i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code. |
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| 816 | 832 | | |
|---|
| 817 | 833 | | (ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the department may grant an exemption regarding the conviction for an offense described in paragraph (1), (2), (7), or (8) of subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code, if the employee or prospective employee has been rehabilitated as provided in Section 4852.03 of the Penal Code, has maintained the conduct required in Section 4852.05 of the Penal Code for at least 10 years, and has the recommendation of the district attorney representing the employees county of residence, or if the employee or prospective employee has received a certificate of rehabilitation pursuant to Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 4852.01) of Title 6 of Part 3 of the Penal Code. |
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| 818 | 834 | | |
|---|
| 819 | 835 | | (B) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code. |
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| 820 | 836 | | |
|---|
| 821 | 837 | | (C) (i) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (A), an exemption shall not be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any applicant for licensure of a community care facility eligible to accept placement of a dependent child if either that applicant or any other person specified in subdivision (b) who is associated with the facility has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses: |
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| 822 | 838 | | |
|---|
| 823 | 839 | | (I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subclause, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A) or subparagraph (B). |
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| 824 | 840 | | |
|---|
| 825 | 841 | | (II) A felony conviction for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense that occurred within the last five years. |
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| 826 | 842 | | |
|---|
| 827 | 843 | | (ii) This subparagraph shall be operative to the extent that compliance with these provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.). |
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| 828 | 844 | | |
|---|
| 829 | 845 | | (2) (A) For a foster care provider applicant, a resource family applicant, or a prospective respite care provider, as described in Section 16501.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, an exemption shall not be granted if that applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, has a conviction for any of the following offenses: |
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| 830 | 846 | | |
|---|
| 831 | 847 | | (i) An offense specified in Section 220, 243.4, or 264.1, subdivision (a) of Section 273a, or, prior to January 1, 1994, paragraph (1) of Section 273a, Section 273ab, 273d, 288, or 289, subdivision (c) of Section 290, or Section 368, of the Penal Code, or was a conviction of another crime against an individual specified in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5 of the Penal Code. |
|---|
| 832 | 848 | | |
|---|
| 833 | 849 | | (ii) A felony offense specified in Section 729 of the Business and Professions Code or Section 206 or 215, subdivision (a) of Section 347, subdivision (b) of Section 417, or subdivision (a) of Section 451 of the Penal Code. |
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| 834 | 850 | | |
|---|
| 835 | 851 | | (iii) Under no circumstances shall an exemption be granted pursuant to this subdivision to any foster care provider applicant if that applicant, or any other person specified in subdivision (b) in those homes, has a felony conviction for either of the following offenses: |
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| 836 | 852 | | |
|---|
| 837 | 853 | | (I) A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child, including child pornography, or for a crime involving violence, including rape, sexual assault, or homicide, but not including other physical assault and battery. For purposes of this subparagraph, a crime involving violence means a violent crime specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (A), or clause (ii) of this subparagraph. |
|---|
| 838 | 854 | | |
|---|
| 839 | 855 | | (II) A felony conviction, within the last five years, for physical assault, battery, or a drug- or alcohol-related offense. |
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| 840 | 856 | | |
|---|
| 841 | 857 | | (III) This clause shall not apply to licenses or approvals wherein a caregiver was granted an exemption to a criminal conviction described in clause (i) prior to the enactment of this clause. |
|---|
| 842 | 858 | | |
|---|
| 843 | 859 | | (IV) This clause shall remain operative only to the extent that compliance with its provisions is required by federal law as a condition for receiving funding under Title IV-E of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.). |
|---|
| 844 | 860 | | |
|---|
| 845 | 861 | | (B) The department or other approving entity may grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider, resource family applicant, or any individual subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, if the department or other approving entity has substantial and convincing evidence to support a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption and the conviction is for one of the following offenses: |
|---|
| 846 | 862 | | |
|---|
| 847 | 863 | | (i) (I) Any misdemeanor conviction within the last five years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A). |
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| 848 | 864 | | |
|---|
| 849 | 865 | | (II) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a misdemeanor conviction for statutory rape, as defined in Section 261.5 of the Penal Code, a misdemeanor conviction for indecent exposure, as defined in Section 314 of the Penal Code, or a misdemeanor conviction for financial abuse against an elder, as defined in Section 368 of the Penal Code, shall be eligible for the consideration of an exemption as set forth in subparagraph (C). |
|---|
| 850 | 866 | | |
|---|
| 851 | 867 | | (ii) Any felony conviction within the last seven years that is not otherwise prohibited by subparagraph (A). |
|---|
| 852 | 868 | | |
|---|
| 853 | 869 | | (C) When granting an exemption for a crime listed in subparagraph (B), the department or other approving entity shall consider all reasonably available information, including, but not limited to, the following: |
|---|
| 854 | 870 | | |
|---|
| 855 | 871 | | (i) The nature of the crime or crimes. |
|---|
| 856 | 872 | | |
|---|
| 857 | 873 | | (ii) The period of time since the crime was committed. |
|---|
| 858 | 874 | | |
|---|
| 859 | 875 | | (iii) The number of offenses. |
|---|
| 860 | 876 | | |
|---|
| 861 | 877 | | (iv) Circumstances surrounding the commission of the crime indicating the likelihood of future criminal activity. |
|---|
| 862 | 878 | | |
|---|
| 863 | 879 | | (v) Activities since conviction, including employment, participation in therapy, education, or treatment. |
|---|
| 864 | 880 | | |
|---|
| 865 | 881 | | (vi) Whether the person convicted has successfully completed probation or parole, obtained a certificate of rehabilitation, or been granted a pardon by the Governor. |
|---|
| 866 | 882 | | |
|---|
| 867 | 883 | | (vii) Any character references or other evidence submitted by the applicant. |
|---|
| 868 | 884 | | |
|---|
| 869 | 885 | | (viii) Whether the person convicted demonstrated honesty and truthfulness concerning the crime or crimes during the application and approval process and made reasonable efforts to assist the department in obtaining records and documents concerning the crime or crimes. |
|---|
| 870 | 886 | | |
|---|
| 871 | 887 | | (D) (i) The department or other approving entity shall grant an exemption from disqualification to a foster care provider applicant, resource family applicant, or any person subject to the background check requirements of this section pursuant to foster care provider applicant, resource family approval, or respite care provider standards, who has been convicted of an offense not listed in subparagraph (A) or (B), if the individuals state and federal criminal history information received from the Department of Justice independently supports a reasonable belief that the applicant or the person convicted of the crime, if other than the applicant, is of present good character necessary to justify the granting of an exemption. |
|---|
| 872 | 888 | | |
|---|
| 873 | 889 | | (ii) Notwithstanding the fact that an individual meets the criteria described in clause (i), the department or other approving entity, at its discretion, as necessary to protect the health and safety of a child, may evaluate a person described in clause (i), for purposes of making an exemption decision, pursuant to the criteria described in subparagraphs (B) and (C). |
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| 874 | 890 | | |
|---|
| 875 | 891 | | (E) This paragraph shall not apply to licenses or approvals for which a caregiver was granted an exemption for a criminal conviction prior to January 1, 2018. |
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| 876 | 892 | | |
|---|
| 877 | 893 | | (3) The department shall not prohibit a person from being employed or having contact with clients in a facility, certified family home, or resource family home on the basis of a denied criminal record exemption request or arrest information unless the department complies with the requirements of Section 1558 of this code or Section 16519.6 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, as applicable. |
|---|
| 878 | 894 | | |
|---|
| 879 | 895 | | (h) (1) For purposes of compliance with this section, the department may permit an individual to transfer a current criminal record clearance, as defined in subdivision (a), from one facility to another, as long as the criminal record clearance has been processed through a state licensing district office, and is being transferred to another facility licensed by a state licensing district office. The request shall be in writing to the State Department of Social Services, and shall include a copy of the persons drivers license or valid identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, or a valid photo identification issued by another state or the United States government if the person is not a California resident. Upon request of the licensee, who shall enclose a self-addressed envelope for this purpose, the State Department of Social Services shall verify whether the individual has a clearance that can be transferred. |
|---|
| 880 | 896 | | |
|---|
| 881 | 897 | | (2) The State Department of Social Services shall hold criminal record clearances in its active files for a minimum of three years after an employee is no longer employed at a licensed facility in order for the criminal record clearance to be transferred. |
|---|
| 882 | 898 | | |
|---|
| 883 | 899 | | (3) A criminal record clearance or exemption processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority shall be accepted by the department or county upon notification of transfer. |
|---|
| 884 | 900 | | |
|---|
| 885 | 901 | | (4) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 concerning an individual whose criminal record clearance was originally processed by the department, a county office with clearance and exemption authority pursuant to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, all of the following shall apply: |
|---|
| 886 | 902 | | |
|---|
| 887 | 903 | | (A) The Department of Justice shall process a request from the department or a county to receive the notice only if all of the following conditions are met: |
|---|
| 888 | 904 | | |
|---|
| 889 | 905 | | (i) The request shall be submitted to the Department of Justice by the agency to be substituted to receive the notification. |
|---|
| 890 | 906 | | |
|---|
| 891 | 907 | | (ii) The request shall be for the same applicant type as the type for which the original clearance was obtained. |
|---|
| 892 | 908 | | |
|---|
| 893 | 909 | | (iii) The request shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice. |
|---|
| 894 | 910 | | |
|---|
| 895 | 911 | | (B) (i) On or before January 7, 2005, the department shall notify the Department of Justice of all county offices that have department-delegated licensing authority. |
|---|
| 896 | 912 | | |
|---|
| 897 | 913 | | (ii) The department shall notify the Department of Justice within 15 calendar days of the date on which a new county office receives department-delegated licensing authority or a countys delegated licensing authority is rescinded. |
|---|
| 898 | 914 | | |
|---|
| 899 | 915 | | (C) The Department of Justice shall charge the department, a county office with department-delegated licensing authority, or a county child welfare agency with criminal record clearance and exemption authority, a fee for each time a request to substitute the recipient agency is received for purposes of this paragraph. This fee shall not exceed the cost of providing the service. |
|---|
| 900 | 916 | | |
|---|
| 901 | 917 | | (i) The full criminal record obtained for purposes of this section may be used by the department or by a licensed adoption agency as a clearance required for adoption purposes. |
|---|
| 902 | 918 | | |
|---|
| 903 | 919 | | (j) If a licensee or facility is required by law to deny employment or to terminate employment of any employee based on written notification from the department that the employee has a prior criminal conviction or is determined unsuitable for employment under Section 1558, the licensee or facility shall not incur civil liability or unemployment insurance liability as a result of that denial or termination. |
|---|
| 904 | 920 | | |
|---|
| 905 | 921 | | (k) The State Department of Social Services may charge a reasonable fee for the costs of processing electronic fingerprint images and related information. |
|---|
| 906 | 922 | | |
|---|
| 907 | 923 | | SEC. 6. Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1522.1. (a) Prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any individual to care for or reside with children, the department shall check the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 11170 of the Penal Code. The Department of Justice shall maintain and continually update an index of reports of child abuse by providers and shall inform the department of subsequent reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 11170 of the Penal Code and the criminal history. The department shall investigate any reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index. The investigation shall include, but not be limited to, the review of the investigation report and file prepared by the child protective agency which investigated the child abuse report. Licensure or approval shall not be denied based upon a report from the Child Abuse Central Index unless child abuse or severe neglect is substantiated.(b) For any application received on or after January 1, 2008, if any prospective foster parent, or adoptive parent, or any person 18 years of age or older residing in their household, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the licensing agency or licensed adoption agency shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a). The department, in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California, shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect.(c) If any person in the household is 18 years of age or older and has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department or its designated representative shall check the other states child abuse and neglect registry to the same extent required for federal funding, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a), prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any foster family home, certified family home, resource family, or person for whom an adoption home study is conducted or who has filed to adopt.(d) If any licensee of a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child or any associated individual, as described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 1522, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to the Child Abuse Central Index as specified in subdivision (a). The department shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect. |
|---|
| 908 | 924 | | |
|---|
| 909 | 925 | | SEC. 6. Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
|---|
| 910 | 926 | | |
|---|
| 911 | 927 | | ### SEC. 6. |
|---|
| 912 | 928 | | |
|---|
| 913 | 929 | | 1522.1. (a) Prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any individual to care for or reside with children, the department shall check the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 11170 of the Penal Code. The Department of Justice shall maintain and continually update an index of reports of child abuse by providers and shall inform the department of subsequent reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 11170 of the Penal Code and the criminal history. The department shall investigate any reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index. The investigation shall include, but not be limited to, the review of the investigation report and file prepared by the child protective agency which investigated the child abuse report. Licensure or approval shall not be denied based upon a report from the Child Abuse Central Index unless child abuse or severe neglect is substantiated.(b) For any application received on or after January 1, 2008, if any prospective foster parent, or adoptive parent, or any person 18 years of age or older residing in their household, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the licensing agency or licensed adoption agency shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a). The department, in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California, shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect.(c) If any person in the household is 18 years of age or older and has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department or its designated representative shall check the other states child abuse and neglect registry to the same extent required for federal funding, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a), prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any foster family home, certified family home, resource family, or person for whom an adoption home study is conducted or who has filed to adopt.(d) If any licensee of a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child or any associated individual, as described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 1522, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to the Child Abuse Central Index as specified in subdivision (a). The department shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect. |
|---|
| 914 | 930 | | |
|---|
| 915 | 931 | | 1522.1. (a) Prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any individual to care for or reside with children, the department shall check the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 11170 of the Penal Code. The Department of Justice shall maintain and continually update an index of reports of child abuse by providers and shall inform the department of subsequent reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 11170 of the Penal Code and the criminal history. The department shall investigate any reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index. The investigation shall include, but not be limited to, the review of the investigation report and file prepared by the child protective agency which investigated the child abuse report. Licensure or approval shall not be denied based upon a report from the Child Abuse Central Index unless child abuse or severe neglect is substantiated.(b) For any application received on or after January 1, 2008, if any prospective foster parent, or adoptive parent, or any person 18 years of age or older residing in their household, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the licensing agency or licensed adoption agency shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a). The department, in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California, shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect.(c) If any person in the household is 18 years of age or older and has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department or its designated representative shall check the other states child abuse and neglect registry to the same extent required for federal funding, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a), prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any foster family home, certified family home, resource family, or person for whom an adoption home study is conducted or who has filed to adopt.(d) If any licensee of a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child or any associated individual, as described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 1522, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to the Child Abuse Central Index as specified in subdivision (a). The department shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect. |
|---|
| 916 | 932 | | |
|---|
| 917 | 933 | | 1522.1. (a) Prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any individual to care for or reside with children, the department shall check the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 11170 of the Penal Code. The Department of Justice shall maintain and continually update an index of reports of child abuse by providers and shall inform the department of subsequent reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 11170 of the Penal Code and the criminal history. The department shall investigate any reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index. The investigation shall include, but not be limited to, the review of the investigation report and file prepared by the child protective agency which investigated the child abuse report. Licensure or approval shall not be denied based upon a report from the Child Abuse Central Index unless child abuse or severe neglect is substantiated.(b) For any application received on or after January 1, 2008, if any prospective foster parent, or adoptive parent, or any person 18 years of age or older residing in their household, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the licensing agency or licensed adoption agency shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a). The department, in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California, shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect.(c) If any person in the household is 18 years of age or older and has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department or its designated representative shall check the other states child abuse and neglect registry to the same extent required for federal funding, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a), prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any foster family home, certified family home, resource family, or person for whom an adoption home study is conducted or who has filed to adopt.(d) If any licensee of a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child or any associated individual, as described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 1522, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to the Child Abuse Central Index as specified in subdivision (a). The department shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect. |
|---|
| 918 | 934 | | |
|---|
| 919 | 935 | | |
|---|
| 920 | 936 | | |
|---|
| 921 | 937 | | 1522.1. (a) Prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any individual to care for or reside with children, the department shall check the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 11170 of the Penal Code. The Department of Justice shall maintain and continually update an index of reports of child abuse by providers and shall inform the department of subsequent reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 11170 of the Penal Code and the criminal history. The department shall investigate any reports received from the Child Abuse Central Index. The investigation shall include, but not be limited to, the review of the investigation report and file prepared by the child protective agency which investigated the child abuse report. Licensure or approval shall not be denied based upon a report from the Child Abuse Central Index unless child abuse or severe neglect is substantiated. |
|---|
| 922 | 938 | | |
|---|
| 923 | 939 | | (b) For any application received on or after January 1, 2008, if any prospective foster parent, or adoptive parent, or any person 18 years of age or older residing in their household, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the licensing agency or licensed adoption agency shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a). The department, in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California, shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect. |
|---|
| 924 | 940 | | |
|---|
| 925 | 941 | | (c) If any person in the household is 18 years of age or older and has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department or its designated representative shall check the other states child abuse and neglect registry to the same extent required for federal funding, in addition to checking the Child Abuse Central Index as provided for in subdivision (a), prior to granting a license to, or otherwise approving, any foster family home, certified family home, resource family, or person for whom an adoption home study is conducted or who has filed to adopt. |
|---|
| 926 | 942 | | |
|---|
| 927 | 943 | | (d) If any licensee of a community care facility that is eligible to accept placement of a dependent child or any associated individual, as described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 1522, has lived in another state in the preceding five years, the department shall check that states child abuse and neglect registry, in addition to the Child Abuse Central Index as specified in subdivision (a). The department shall develop and promulgate the process and criteria to be used to review and consider other states findings of child abuse or neglect. |
|---|
| 928 | 944 | | |
|---|
| 929 | 945 | | SEC. 7. Section 1527 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527. As used in this article:(a) Aircraft includes, but is not limited to, any airplane, glider, or hot air balloon.(b) Bodily injury means any bodily injury, sickness, or disease sustained by any person including death at any time resulting therefrom.(c) Foster child means a person under 19 years of age who has been placed in the care and supervision of licensed foster parents or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(d) (1) Foster parent means the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child in a licensed foster family home or licensed small family home, as defined in Section 1502, or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) On or after January 1, 2020, foster parent shall also mean the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child placed in a tribally approved home by a county child welfare agency, county probation agency, or an Indian tribe that has entered into an agreement pursuant to Section 10553.1 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(e) Occurrence means an accident, including continuous or repeated exposure to conditions, which results in bodily injury or personal injury neither expected nor intended by the foster parent. Multiple incidents of a general course of conduct shall be considered one occurrence, regardless of the period of time during which the acts transpired.(f) Motor vehicle means an automobile, motorcycle, moped, midget automobile, including the type commonly referred to as a kart, go-kart, speedmobile, or by a comparable name whether commercially built or otherwise, trailer or semitrailer designed for travel on public roads, including any machinery or apparatus attached thereto, or snowmobile.(g) Personal injury means any injury to the feelings or reputation of any person or organization arising out of libel, slander, defamation, or disparagement, wrongful eviction, or entry.(h) Property damage means any physical injury to, or destruction of, tangible property, including the loss of use thereof at any time resulting therefrom.(i) Watercraft includes, but is not limited to, any boat, ship, raft, or canoe, whether motorized or not. |
|---|
| 930 | 946 | | |
|---|
| 931 | 947 | | SEC. 7. Section 1527 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
|---|
| 932 | 948 | | |
|---|
| 933 | 949 | | ### SEC. 7. |
|---|
| 934 | 950 | | |
|---|
| 935 | 951 | | 1527. As used in this article:(a) Aircraft includes, but is not limited to, any airplane, glider, or hot air balloon.(b) Bodily injury means any bodily injury, sickness, or disease sustained by any person including death at any time resulting therefrom.(c) Foster child means a person under 19 years of age who has been placed in the care and supervision of licensed foster parents or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(d) (1) Foster parent means the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child in a licensed foster family home or licensed small family home, as defined in Section 1502, or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) On or after January 1, 2020, foster parent shall also mean the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child placed in a tribally approved home by a county child welfare agency, county probation agency, or an Indian tribe that has entered into an agreement pursuant to Section 10553.1 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(e) Occurrence means an accident, including continuous or repeated exposure to conditions, which results in bodily injury or personal injury neither expected nor intended by the foster parent. Multiple incidents of a general course of conduct shall be considered one occurrence, regardless of the period of time during which the acts transpired.(f) Motor vehicle means an automobile, motorcycle, moped, midget automobile, including the type commonly referred to as a kart, go-kart, speedmobile, or by a comparable name whether commercially built or otherwise, trailer or semitrailer designed for travel on public roads, including any machinery or apparatus attached thereto, or snowmobile.(g) Personal injury means any injury to the feelings or reputation of any person or organization arising out of libel, slander, defamation, or disparagement, wrongful eviction, or entry.(h) Property damage means any physical injury to, or destruction of, tangible property, including the loss of use thereof at any time resulting therefrom.(i) Watercraft includes, but is not limited to, any boat, ship, raft, or canoe, whether motorized or not. |
|---|
| 936 | 952 | | |
|---|
| 937 | 953 | | 1527. As used in this article:(a) Aircraft includes, but is not limited to, any airplane, glider, or hot air balloon.(b) Bodily injury means any bodily injury, sickness, or disease sustained by any person including death at any time resulting therefrom.(c) Foster child means a person under 19 years of age who has been placed in the care and supervision of licensed foster parents or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(d) (1) Foster parent means the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child in a licensed foster family home or licensed small family home, as defined in Section 1502, or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) On or after January 1, 2020, foster parent shall also mean the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child placed in a tribally approved home by a county child welfare agency, county probation agency, or an Indian tribe that has entered into an agreement pursuant to Section 10553.1 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(e) Occurrence means an accident, including continuous or repeated exposure to conditions, which results in bodily injury or personal injury neither expected nor intended by the foster parent. Multiple incidents of a general course of conduct shall be considered one occurrence, regardless of the period of time during which the acts transpired.(f) Motor vehicle means an automobile, motorcycle, moped, midget automobile, including the type commonly referred to as a kart, go-kart, speedmobile, or by a comparable name whether commercially built or otherwise, trailer or semitrailer designed for travel on public roads, including any machinery or apparatus attached thereto, or snowmobile.(g) Personal injury means any injury to the feelings or reputation of any person or organization arising out of libel, slander, defamation, or disparagement, wrongful eviction, or entry.(h) Property damage means any physical injury to, or destruction of, tangible property, including the loss of use thereof at any time resulting therefrom.(i) Watercraft includes, but is not limited to, any boat, ship, raft, or canoe, whether motorized or not. |
|---|
| 938 | 954 | | |
|---|
| 939 | 955 | | 1527. As used in this article:(a) Aircraft includes, but is not limited to, any airplane, glider, or hot air balloon.(b) Bodily injury means any bodily injury, sickness, or disease sustained by any person including death at any time resulting therefrom.(c) Foster child means a person under 19 years of age who has been placed in the care and supervision of licensed foster parents or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(d) (1) Foster parent means the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child in a licensed foster family home or licensed small family home, as defined in Section 1502, or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(2) On or after January 1, 2020, foster parent shall also mean the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child placed in a tribally approved home by a county child welfare agency, county probation agency, or an Indian tribe that has entered into an agreement pursuant to Section 10553.1 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.(e) Occurrence means an accident, including continuous or repeated exposure to conditions, which results in bodily injury or personal injury neither expected nor intended by the foster parent. Multiple incidents of a general course of conduct shall be considered one occurrence, regardless of the period of time during which the acts transpired.(f) Motor vehicle means an automobile, motorcycle, moped, midget automobile, including the type commonly referred to as a kart, go-kart, speedmobile, or by a comparable name whether commercially built or otherwise, trailer or semitrailer designed for travel on public roads, including any machinery or apparatus attached thereto, or snowmobile.(g) Personal injury means any injury to the feelings or reputation of any person or organization arising out of libel, slander, defamation, or disparagement, wrongful eviction, or entry.(h) Property damage means any physical injury to, or destruction of, tangible property, including the loss of use thereof at any time resulting therefrom.(i) Watercraft includes, but is not limited to, any boat, ship, raft, or canoe, whether motorized or not. |
|---|
| 940 | 956 | | |
|---|
| 941 | 957 | | |
|---|
| 942 | 958 | | |
|---|
| 943 | 959 | | 1527. As used in this article: |
|---|
| 944 | 960 | | |
|---|
| 945 | 961 | | (a) Aircraft includes, but is not limited to, any airplane, glider, or hot air balloon. |
|---|
| 946 | 962 | | |
|---|
| 947 | 963 | | (b) Bodily injury means any bodily injury, sickness, or disease sustained by any person including death at any time resulting therefrom. |
|---|
| 948 | 964 | | |
|---|
| 949 | 965 | | (c) Foster child means a person under 19 years of age who has been placed in the care and supervision of licensed foster parents or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
|---|
| 950 | 966 | | |
|---|
| 951 | 967 | | (d) (1) Foster parent means the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child in a licensed foster family home or licensed small family home, as defined in Section 1502, or, on and after January 1, 2019, a resource family, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
|---|
| 952 | 968 | | |
|---|
| 953 | 969 | | (2) On or after January 1, 2020, foster parent shall also mean the person, and including their spouse if the spouse is a resident of the same household, providing care, custody, and control of a foster child placed in a tribally approved home by a county child welfare agency, county probation agency, or an Indian tribe that has entered into an agreement pursuant to Section 10553.1 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
|---|
| 954 | 970 | | |
|---|
| 955 | 971 | | (e) Occurrence means an accident, including continuous or repeated exposure to conditions, which results in bodily injury or personal injury neither expected nor intended by the foster parent. Multiple incidents of a general course of conduct shall be considered one occurrence, regardless of the period of time during which the acts transpired. |
|---|
| 956 | 972 | | |
|---|
| 957 | 973 | | (f) Motor vehicle means an automobile, motorcycle, moped, midget automobile, including the type commonly referred to as a kart, go-kart, speedmobile, or by a comparable name whether commercially built or otherwise, trailer or semitrailer designed for travel on public roads, including any machinery or apparatus attached thereto, or snowmobile. |
|---|
| 958 | 974 | | |
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| 959 | 975 | | (g) Personal injury means any injury to the feelings or reputation of any person or organization arising out of libel, slander, defamation, or disparagement, wrongful eviction, or entry. |
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| 960 | 976 | | |
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| 961 | 977 | | (h) Property damage means any physical injury to, or destruction of, tangible property, including the loss of use thereof at any time resulting therefrom. |
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| 962 | 978 | | |
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| 963 | 979 | | (i) Watercraft includes, but is not limited to, any boat, ship, raft, or canoe, whether motorized or not. |
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| 964 | 980 | | |
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| 965 | 981 | | SEC. 8. Section 1527.1 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.1. There is hereby established the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund within the State Department of Social Services. The fund shall consist of all moneys appropriated by the Legislature. The department may contract with another state agency to set up and operate the fund and perform other administrative functions that may be necessary to carry out the intentions of this article. The purpose of the fund is to pay, on behalf of foster family homes and small family homes, as defined in Section 1502, on or after January 1, 2019, resource families, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem resulting from occurrences peculiar to the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services. The fund may sue and be sued. |
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| 966 | 982 | | |
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| 967 | 983 | | SEC. 8. Section 1527.1 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
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| 968 | 984 | | |
|---|
| 969 | 985 | | ### SEC. 8. |
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| 970 | 986 | | |
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| 971 | 987 | | 1527.1. There is hereby established the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund within the State Department of Social Services. The fund shall consist of all moneys appropriated by the Legislature. The department may contract with another state agency to set up and operate the fund and perform other administrative functions that may be necessary to carry out the intentions of this article. The purpose of the fund is to pay, on behalf of foster family homes and small family homes, as defined in Section 1502, on or after January 1, 2019, resource families, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem resulting from occurrences peculiar to the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services. The fund may sue and be sued. |
|---|
| 972 | 988 | | |
|---|
| 973 | 989 | | 1527.1. There is hereby established the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund within the State Department of Social Services. The fund shall consist of all moneys appropriated by the Legislature. The department may contract with another state agency to set up and operate the fund and perform other administrative functions that may be necessary to carry out the intentions of this article. The purpose of the fund is to pay, on behalf of foster family homes and small family homes, as defined in Section 1502, on or after January 1, 2019, resource families, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem resulting from occurrences peculiar to the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services. The fund may sue and be sued. |
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| 974 | 990 | | |
|---|
| 975 | 991 | | 1527.1. There is hereby established the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund within the State Department of Social Services. The fund shall consist of all moneys appropriated by the Legislature. The department may contract with another state agency to set up and operate the fund and perform other administrative functions that may be necessary to carry out the intentions of this article. The purpose of the fund is to pay, on behalf of foster family homes and small family homes, as defined in Section 1502, on or after January 1, 2019, resource families, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem resulting from occurrences peculiar to the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services. The fund may sue and be sued. |
|---|
| 976 | 992 | | |
|---|
| 977 | 993 | | |
|---|
| 978 | 994 | | |
|---|
| 979 | 995 | | 1527.1. There is hereby established the Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund within the State Department of Social Services. The fund shall consist of all moneys appropriated by the Legislature. The department may contract with another state agency to set up and operate the fund and perform other administrative functions that may be necessary to carry out the intentions of this article. The purpose of the fund is to pay, on behalf of foster family homes and small family homes, as defined in Section 1502, on or after January 1, 2019, resource families, as defined in Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem resulting from occurrences peculiar to the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services. The fund may sue and be sued. |
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| 980 | 996 | | |
|---|
| 981 | 997 | | SEC. 9. Section 1527.2 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.2. The fund, subject to this article, shall pay, on behalf of foster family homes, small family homes, on and after January 1, 2019, resource families, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, any claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem for damages arising from, and peculiar to, the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services, or shall reimburse foster family homes, small family homes, and resource families for those damages. |
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| 982 | 998 | | |
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| 983 | 999 | | SEC. 9. Section 1527.2 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
|---|
| 984 | 1000 | | |
|---|
| 985 | 1001 | | ### SEC. 9. |
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| 986 | 1002 | | |
|---|
| 987 | 1003 | | 1527.2. The fund, subject to this article, shall pay, on behalf of foster family homes, small family homes, on and after January 1, 2019, resource families, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, any claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem for damages arising from, and peculiar to, the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services, or shall reimburse foster family homes, small family homes, and resource families for those damages. |
|---|
| 988 | 1004 | | |
|---|
| 989 | 1005 | | 1527.2. The fund, subject to this article, shall pay, on behalf of foster family homes, small family homes, on and after January 1, 2019, resource families, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, any claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem for damages arising from, and peculiar to, the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services, or shall reimburse foster family homes, small family homes, and resource families for those damages. |
|---|
| 990 | 1006 | | |
|---|
| 991 | 1007 | | 1527.2. The fund, subject to this article, shall pay, on behalf of foster family homes, small family homes, on and after January 1, 2019, resource families, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, any claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem for damages arising from, and peculiar to, the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services, or shall reimburse foster family homes, small family homes, and resource families for those damages. |
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| 992 | 1008 | | |
|---|
| 993 | 1009 | | |
|---|
| 994 | 1010 | | |
|---|
| 995 | 1011 | | 1527.2. The fund, subject to this article, shall pay, on behalf of foster family homes, small family homes, on and after January 1, 2019, resource families, and, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, any claims of foster children, their parents, guardians, or guardians ad litem for damages arising from, and peculiar to, the foster care relationship and the provision of foster care services, or shall reimburse foster family homes, small family homes, and resource families for those damages. |
|---|
| 996 | 1012 | | |
|---|
| 997 | 1013 | | SEC. 10. Section 1527.4 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.4. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, the fund shall not be liable for damages in excess of three hundred thousand dollars ($300,000) for any single foster family home, small family home, on and after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, for all claims arising due to one or more occurrences during any consecutive 12-month period. The fund shall be liable only once for damages arising from one occurrence. |
|---|
| 998 | 1014 | | |
|---|
| 999 | 1015 | | SEC. 10. Section 1527.4 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
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| 1000 | 1016 | | |
|---|
| 1001 | 1017 | | ### SEC. 10. |
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| 1002 | 1018 | | |
|---|
| 1003 | 1019 | | 1527.4. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, the fund shall not be liable for damages in excess of three hundred thousand dollars ($300,000) for any single foster family home, small family home, on and after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, for all claims arising due to one or more occurrences during any consecutive 12-month period. The fund shall be liable only once for damages arising from one occurrence. |
|---|
| 1004 | 1020 | | |
|---|
| 1005 | 1021 | | 1527.4. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, the fund shall not be liable for damages in excess of three hundred thousand dollars ($300,000) for any single foster family home, small family home, on and after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, for all claims arising due to one or more occurrences during any consecutive 12-month period. The fund shall be liable only once for damages arising from one occurrence. |
|---|
| 1006 | 1022 | | |
|---|
| 1007 | 1023 | | 1527.4. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, the fund shall not be liable for damages in excess of three hundred thousand dollars ($300,000) for any single foster family home, small family home, on and after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, for all claims arising due to one or more occurrences during any consecutive 12-month period. The fund shall be liable only once for damages arising from one occurrence. |
|---|
| 1008 | 1024 | | |
|---|
| 1009 | 1025 | | |
|---|
| 1010 | 1026 | | |
|---|
| 1011 | 1027 | | 1527.4. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, the fund shall not be liable for damages in excess of three hundred thousand dollars ($300,000) for any single foster family home, small family home, on and after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved homes, for all claims arising due to one or more occurrences during any consecutive 12-month period. The fund shall be liable only once for damages arising from one occurrence. |
|---|
| 1012 | 1028 | | |
|---|
| 1013 | 1029 | | SEC. 11. Section 1527.5 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1527.5. The fund shall be liable, if a claim is approved, to pay on behalf of each licensed foster family home, small family home, on or after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved home, all sums which the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home is obligated to pay as a result of a valid claim of bodily injury or personal injury arising out of the activities of a foster parent or foster parents, which occurs while the foster child resides in the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home. Claims specified in this section of a foster child or a parent, guardian, or guardian ad litem of a foster child shall be the sole responsibility of the fund. |
|---|
| 1014 | 1030 | | |
|---|
| 1015 | 1031 | | SEC. 11. Section 1527.5 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
|---|
| 1016 | 1032 | | |
|---|
| 1017 | 1033 | | ### SEC. 11. |
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| 1018 | 1034 | | |
|---|
| 1019 | 1035 | | 1527.5. The fund shall be liable, if a claim is approved, to pay on behalf of each licensed foster family home, small family home, on or after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved home, all sums which the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home is obligated to pay as a result of a valid claim of bodily injury or personal injury arising out of the activities of a foster parent or foster parents, which occurs while the foster child resides in the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home. Claims specified in this section of a foster child or a parent, guardian, or guardian ad litem of a foster child shall be the sole responsibility of the fund. |
|---|
| 1020 | 1036 | | |
|---|
| 1021 | 1037 | | 1527.5. The fund shall be liable, if a claim is approved, to pay on behalf of each licensed foster family home, small family home, on or after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved home, all sums which the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home is obligated to pay as a result of a valid claim of bodily injury or personal injury arising out of the activities of a foster parent or foster parents, which occurs while the foster child resides in the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home. Claims specified in this section of a foster child or a parent, guardian, or guardian ad litem of a foster child shall be the sole responsibility of the fund. |
|---|
| 1022 | 1038 | | |
|---|
| 1023 | 1039 | | 1527.5. The fund shall be liable, if a claim is approved, to pay on behalf of each licensed foster family home, small family home, on or after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved home, all sums which the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home is obligated to pay as a result of a valid claim of bodily injury or personal injury arising out of the activities of a foster parent or foster parents, which occurs while the foster child resides in the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home. Claims specified in this section of a foster child or a parent, guardian, or guardian ad litem of a foster child shall be the sole responsibility of the fund. |
|---|
| 1024 | 1040 | | |
|---|
| 1025 | 1041 | | |
|---|
| 1026 | 1042 | | |
|---|
| 1027 | 1043 | | 1527.5. The fund shall be liable, if a claim is approved, to pay on behalf of each licensed foster family home, small family home, on or after January 1, 2019, resource family, or, on or after January 1, 2020, tribally approved home, all sums which the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home is obligated to pay as a result of a valid claim of bodily injury or personal injury arising out of the activities of a foster parent or foster parents, which occurs while the foster child resides in the foster family home, small family home, resource family, or tribally approved home. Claims specified in this section of a foster child or a parent, guardian, or guardian ad litem of a foster child shall be the sole responsibility of the fund. |
|---|
| 1028 | 1044 | | |
|---|
| 1029 | 1045 | | SEC. 12. Section 1558 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1558. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility or certified family home, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility or certified family home by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either the people of this state or an individual in, or receiving services from, the facility or certified family home.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility or certified family home, when that person has been convicted of a crime, as defined in Section 1522.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee or certified family home.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility or certified family home, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services.(b) The excluded person, the facility or certified family home, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do both of the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code by the excluded person to conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility or certified family home shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the director has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the director fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility or certified family home, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility or certified family home.(g) A licensees or certified family homes failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) Notwithstanding paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) or subdivision (c) of Section 1550, the department shall take reasonable action, including, but not limited to, prohibiting a person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee of a licensed facility or certified family home, or denying an application for, or suspending or revoking, a license, special permit, certificate of approval, or administrator certificate, issued under this chapter, or denying a transfer of a license pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 1524, upon a finding of a violation of subdivision (i) of Section 11166 of the Penal Code.(j) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
|---|
| 1030 | 1046 | | |
|---|
| 1031 | 1047 | | SEC. 12. Section 1558 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
|---|
| 1032 | 1048 | | |
|---|
| 1033 | 1049 | | ### SEC. 12. |
|---|
| 1034 | 1050 | | |
|---|
| 1035 | 1051 | | 1558. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility or certified family home, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility or certified family home by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either the people of this state or an individual in, or receiving services from, the facility or certified family home.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility or certified family home, when that person has been convicted of a crime, as defined in Section 1522.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee or certified family home.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility or certified family home, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services.(b) The excluded person, the facility or certified family home, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do both of the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code by the excluded person to conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility or certified family home shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the director has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the director fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility or certified family home, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility or certified family home.(g) A licensees or certified family homes failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) Notwithstanding paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) or subdivision (c) of Section 1550, the department shall take reasonable action, including, but not limited to, prohibiting a person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee of a licensed facility or certified family home, or denying an application for, or suspending or revoking, a license, special permit, certificate of approval, or administrator certificate, issued under this chapter, or denying a transfer of a license pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 1524, upon a finding of a violation of subdivision (i) of Section 11166 of the Penal Code.(j) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
|---|
| 1036 | 1052 | | |
|---|
| 1037 | 1053 | | 1558. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility or certified family home, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility or certified family home by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either the people of this state or an individual in, or receiving services from, the facility or certified family home.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility or certified family home, when that person has been convicted of a crime, as defined in Section 1522.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee or certified family home.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility or certified family home, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services.(b) The excluded person, the facility or certified family home, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do both of the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code by the excluded person to conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility or certified family home shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the director has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the director fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility or certified family home, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility or certified family home.(g) A licensees or certified family homes failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) Notwithstanding paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) or subdivision (c) of Section 1550, the department shall take reasonable action, including, but not limited to, prohibiting a person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee of a licensed facility or certified family home, or denying an application for, or suspending or revoking, a license, special permit, certificate of approval, or administrator certificate, issued under this chapter, or denying a transfer of a license pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 1524, upon a finding of a violation of subdivision (i) of Section 11166 of the Penal Code.(j) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1038 | 1054 | | |
|---|
| 1039 | 1055 | | 1558. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility or certified family home, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility or certified family home by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either the people of this state or an individual in, or receiving services from, the facility or certified family home.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility or certified family home, when that person has been convicted of a crime, as defined in Section 1522.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee or certified family home.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility or certified family home, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services.(b) The excluded person, the facility or certified family home, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do both of the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code by the excluded person to conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility or certified family home shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the director has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the director fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility or certified family home, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility or certified family home.(g) A licensees or certified family homes failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) Notwithstanding paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) or subdivision (c) of Section 1550, the department shall take reasonable action, including, but not limited to, prohibiting a person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee of a licensed facility or certified family home, or denying an application for, or suspending or revoking, a license, special permit, certificate of approval, or administrator certificate, issued under this chapter, or denying a transfer of a license pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 1524, upon a finding of a violation of subdivision (i) of Section 11166 of the Penal Code.(j) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1040 | 1056 | | |
|---|
| 1041 | 1057 | | |
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| 1042 | 1058 | | |
|---|
| 1043 | 1059 | | 1558. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility or certified family home, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility or certified family home by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has: |
|---|
| 1044 | 1060 | | |
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| 1045 | 1061 | | (1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter. |
|---|
| 1046 | 1062 | | |
|---|
| 1047 | 1063 | | (2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either the people of this state or an individual in, or receiving services from, the facility or certified family home. |
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| 1048 | 1064 | | |
|---|
| 1049 | 1065 | | (3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility or certified family home, when that person has been convicted of a crime, as defined in Section 1522. |
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| 1050 | 1066 | | |
|---|
| 1051 | 1067 | | (4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee or certified family home. |
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| 1052 | 1068 | | |
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| 1053 | 1069 | | (5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility or certified family home, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services. |
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| 1054 | 1070 | | |
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| 1055 | 1071 | | (b) The excluded person, the facility or certified family home, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final. |
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| 1056 | 1072 | | |
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| 1057 | 1073 | | (c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety. |
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| 1058 | 1074 | | |
|---|
| 1059 | 1075 | | (2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility or certified family home, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing. |
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| 1060 | 1076 | | |
|---|
| 1061 | 1077 | | (3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do both of the following upon receipt of a written appeal: |
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| 1062 | 1078 | | |
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| 1063 | 1079 | | (A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person. |
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| 1064 | 1080 | | |
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| 1065 | 1081 | | (B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code by the excluded person to conduct a hearing on the accusation. |
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| 1066 | 1082 | | |
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| 1067 | 1083 | | (4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility or certified family home shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the director has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the director fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed. |
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| 1068 | 1084 | | |
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| 1069 | 1085 | | (d) An excluded person who files a written appeal with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated. |
|---|
| 1070 | 1086 | | |
|---|
| 1071 | 1087 | | (e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department. |
|---|
| 1072 | 1088 | | |
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| 1073 | 1089 | | (f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility or certified family home, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility or certified family home. |
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| 1074 | 1090 | | |
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| 1075 | 1091 | | (g) A licensees or certified family homes failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1550. |
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| 1076 | 1092 | | |
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| 1077 | 1093 | | (h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department. |
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| 1078 | 1094 | | |
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| 1079 | 1095 | | (B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order. |
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| 1080 | 1096 | | |
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| 1081 | 1097 | | (2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department. |
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| 1082 | 1098 | | |
|---|
| 1083 | 1099 | | (B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order. |
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| 1084 | 1100 | | |
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| 1085 | 1101 | | (i) Notwithstanding paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) or subdivision (c) of Section 1550, the department shall take reasonable action, including, but not limited to, prohibiting a person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee of a licensed facility or certified family home, or denying an application for, or suspending or revoking, a license, special permit, certificate of approval, or administrator certificate, issued under this chapter, or denying a transfer of a license pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 1524, upon a finding of a violation of subdivision (i) of Section 11166 of the Penal Code. |
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| 1086 | 1102 | | |
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| 1087 | 1103 | | (j) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1088 | 1104 | | |
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| 1089 | 1105 | | SEC. 13. Section 1562.02 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1562.02. (a) The department may license a short-term residential therapeutic program operating as a childrens crisis residential program pursuant to this chapter. A childrens crisis residential program shall meet all of the following requirements:(1) If the program serves both children who are not experiencing mental health crises and children who are experiencing mental health crises, the program shall have an identifiable and physically separate unit for those children who are experiencing mental health crises. The separate unit shall be indicated on the short-term residential therapeutic programs license.(2) If the short-term residential therapeutic program operates on a single site both a program that serves children who are not experiencing mental health crises and a separate program that only serves children experiencing mental health crises, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, both of which are issued by the State Department of Health Care Services, or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval.(3) If the short-term residential therapeutic program serves only children experiencing a mental health crisis, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which is issued by the State Department of Health Care Services or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval.(4) Comply with all applicable licensing standards for a short-term residential therapeutic program, unless the department specifies otherwise in regulations that comply with applicable statutory requirements related to licensure.(b) Contingent upon an appropriation in the annual Budget Act for these purposes, the department shall begin implementation of this section no later than July 1, 2018, and shall commence the licensing process for childrens crisis residential programs no later than January 1, 2019. |
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| 1090 | 1106 | | |
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| 1091 | 1107 | | SEC. 13. Section 1562.02 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
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| 1092 | 1108 | | |
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| 1093 | 1109 | | ### SEC. 13. |
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| 1094 | 1110 | | |
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| 1095 | 1111 | | 1562.02. (a) The department may license a short-term residential therapeutic program operating as a childrens crisis residential program pursuant to this chapter. A childrens crisis residential program shall meet all of the following requirements:(1) If the program serves both children who are not experiencing mental health crises and children who are experiencing mental health crises, the program shall have an identifiable and physically separate unit for those children who are experiencing mental health crises. The separate unit shall be indicated on the short-term residential therapeutic programs license.(2) If the short-term residential therapeutic program operates on a single site both a program that serves children who are not experiencing mental health crises and a separate program that only serves children experiencing mental health crises, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, both of which are issued by the State Department of Health Care Services, or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval.(3) If the short-term residential therapeutic program serves only children experiencing a mental health crisis, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which is issued by the State Department of Health Care Services or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval.(4) Comply with all applicable licensing standards for a short-term residential therapeutic program, unless the department specifies otherwise in regulations that comply with applicable statutory requirements related to licensure.(b) Contingent upon an appropriation in the annual Budget Act for these purposes, the department shall begin implementation of this section no later than July 1, 2018, and shall commence the licensing process for childrens crisis residential programs no later than January 1, 2019. |
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| 1096 | 1112 | | |
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| 1097 | 1113 | | 1562.02. (a) The department may license a short-term residential therapeutic program operating as a childrens crisis residential program pursuant to this chapter. A childrens crisis residential program shall meet all of the following requirements:(1) If the program serves both children who are not experiencing mental health crises and children who are experiencing mental health crises, the program shall have an identifiable and physically separate unit for those children who are experiencing mental health crises. The separate unit shall be indicated on the short-term residential therapeutic programs license.(2) If the short-term residential therapeutic program operates on a single site both a program that serves children who are not experiencing mental health crises and a separate program that only serves children experiencing mental health crises, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, both of which are issued by the State Department of Health Care Services, or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval.(3) If the short-term residential therapeutic program serves only children experiencing a mental health crisis, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which is issued by the State Department of Health Care Services or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval.(4) Comply with all applicable licensing standards for a short-term residential therapeutic program, unless the department specifies otherwise in regulations that comply with applicable statutory requirements related to licensure.(b) Contingent upon an appropriation in the annual Budget Act for these purposes, the department shall begin implementation of this section no later than July 1, 2018, and shall commence the licensing process for childrens crisis residential programs no later than January 1, 2019. |
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| 1098 | 1114 | | |
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| 1099 | 1115 | | 1562.02. (a) The department may license a short-term residential therapeutic program operating as a childrens crisis residential program pursuant to this chapter. A childrens crisis residential program shall meet all of the following requirements:(1) If the program serves both children who are not experiencing mental health crises and children who are experiencing mental health crises, the program shall have an identifiable and physically separate unit for those children who are experiencing mental health crises. The separate unit shall be indicated on the short-term residential therapeutic programs license.(2) If the short-term residential therapeutic program operates on a single site both a program that serves children who are not experiencing mental health crises and a separate program that only serves children experiencing mental health crises, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, both of which are issued by the State Department of Health Care Services, or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval.(3) If the short-term residential therapeutic program serves only children experiencing a mental health crisis, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which is issued by the State Department of Health Care Services or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval.(4) Comply with all applicable licensing standards for a short-term residential therapeutic program, unless the department specifies otherwise in regulations that comply with applicable statutory requirements related to licensure.(b) Contingent upon an appropriation in the annual Budget Act for these purposes, the department shall begin implementation of this section no later than July 1, 2018, and shall commence the licensing process for childrens crisis residential programs no later than January 1, 2019. |
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| 1100 | 1116 | | |
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| 1101 | 1117 | | |
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| 1102 | 1118 | | |
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| 1103 | 1119 | | 1562.02. (a) The department may license a short-term residential therapeutic program operating as a childrens crisis residential program pursuant to this chapter. A childrens crisis residential program shall meet all of the following requirements: |
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| 1104 | 1120 | | |
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| 1105 | 1121 | | (1) If the program serves both children who are not experiencing mental health crises and children who are experiencing mental health crises, the program shall have an identifiable and physically separate unit for those children who are experiencing mental health crises. The separate unit shall be indicated on the short-term residential therapeutic programs license. |
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| 1106 | 1122 | | |
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| 1107 | 1123 | | (2) If the short-term residential therapeutic program operates on a single site both a program that serves children who are not experiencing mental health crises and a separate program that only serves children experiencing mental health crises, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.01 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, both of which are issued by the State Department of Health Care Services, or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval. |
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| 1108 | 1124 | | |
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| 1109 | 1125 | | (3) If the short-term residential therapeutic program serves only children experiencing a mental health crisis, the short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain, and have in good standing, a childrens crisis residential mental health program approval, as described in Section 11462.011 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, which is issued by the State Department of Health Care Services or by a county mental health plan to which the department has delegated approval authority. The short-term residential therapeutic program shall obtain a mental health program approval before operating as a childrens crisis residential program. The department may revoke a programs license pursuant to Section 1550 for a programs failure to maintain the mental health program approval. |
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| 1110 | 1126 | | |
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| 1111 | 1127 | | (4) Comply with all applicable licensing standards for a short-term residential therapeutic program, unless the department specifies otherwise in regulations that comply with applicable statutory requirements related to licensure. |
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| 1112 | 1128 | | |
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| 1113 | 1129 | | (b) Contingent upon an appropriation in the annual Budget Act for these purposes, the department shall begin implementation of this section no later than July 1, 2018, and shall commence the licensing process for childrens crisis residential programs no later than January 1, 2019. |
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| 1114 | 1130 | | |
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| 1115 | 1131 | | SEC. 14. Section 1568.092 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1568.092. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, aided, or permitted the violation by any other person of this chapter or of any rules or regulations adopted under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, welfare, or safety of either an individual, in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1568.09.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the action of the department and of the right to an appeal of the excluded person. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the action of the department shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of an executive director, a board member, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1568.082.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1116 | 1132 | | |
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| 1117 | 1133 | | SEC. 14. Section 1568.092 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
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| 1118 | 1134 | | |
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| 1119 | 1135 | | ### SEC. 14. |
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| 1120 | 1136 | | |
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| 1121 | 1137 | | 1568.092. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, aided, or permitted the violation by any other person of this chapter or of any rules or regulations adopted under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, welfare, or safety of either an individual, in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1568.09.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the action of the department and of the right to an appeal of the excluded person. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the action of the department shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of an executive director, a board member, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1568.082.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1122 | 1138 | | |
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| 1123 | 1139 | | 1568.092. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, aided, or permitted the violation by any other person of this chapter or of any rules or regulations adopted under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, welfare, or safety of either an individual, in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1568.09.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the action of the department and of the right to an appeal of the excluded person. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the action of the department shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of an executive director, a board member, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1568.082.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1124 | 1140 | | |
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| 1125 | 1141 | | 1568.092. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, aided, or permitted the violation by any other person of this chapter or of any rules or regulations adopted under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, welfare, or safety of either an individual, in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1568.09.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the action of the department and of the right to an appeal of the excluded person. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the action of the department shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of an executive director, a board member, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1568.082.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1126 | 1142 | | |
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| 1127 | 1143 | | |
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| 1128 | 1144 | | |
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| 1129 | 1145 | | 1568.092. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has: |
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| 1130 | 1146 | | |
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| 1131 | 1147 | | (1) Violated, aided, or permitted the violation by any other person of this chapter or of any rules or regulations adopted under this chapter. |
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| 1132 | 1148 | | |
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| 1133 | 1149 | | (2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, welfare, or safety of either an individual, in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California. |
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| 1134 | 1150 | | |
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| 1135 | 1151 | | (3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1568.09. |
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| 1136 | 1152 | | |
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| 1137 | 1153 | | (4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee. |
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| 1138 | 1154 | | |
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| 1139 | 1155 | | (5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services. |
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| 1140 | 1156 | | |
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| 1141 | 1157 | | (b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the action of the department and of the right to an appeal of the excluded person. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the action of the department shall be final. |
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| 1142 | 1158 | | |
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| 1143 | 1159 | | (c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of an executive director, a board member, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter when, in the opinion of the director, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety. |
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| 1144 | 1160 | | |
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| 1145 | 1161 | | (2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing. |
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| 1146 | 1162 | | |
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| 1147 | 1163 | | (3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal: |
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| 1148 | 1164 | | |
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| 1149 | 1165 | | (A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person. |
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| 1150 | 1166 | | |
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| 1151 | 1167 | | (B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation. |
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| 1152 | 1168 | | |
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| 1153 | 1169 | | (4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed. |
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| 1154 | 1170 | | |
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| 1155 | 1171 | | (d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated. |
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| 1156 | 1172 | | |
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| 1157 | 1173 | | (e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department. |
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| 1158 | 1174 | | |
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| 1159 | 1175 | | (f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility. |
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| 1160 | 1176 | | |
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| 1161 | 1177 | | (g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1568.082. |
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| 1162 | 1178 | | |
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| 1163 | 1179 | | (h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department. |
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| 1164 | 1180 | | |
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| 1165 | 1181 | | (B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order. |
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| 1166 | 1182 | | |
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| 1167 | 1183 | | (2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department. |
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| 1168 | 1184 | | |
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| 1169 | 1185 | | (B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order. |
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| 1170 | 1186 | | |
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| 1171 | 1187 | | (i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1172 | 1188 | | |
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| 1173 | 1189 | | SEC. 15. Section 1569.58 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1569.58. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a licensee, owning a beneficial ownership interest of 10 percent or more in a licensed facility, or being an administrator, officer, director, member, or manager of a licensee or entity controlling a licensee, and may further prohibit any licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client and who has done any of the following:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1569.17.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1569.50.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1174 | 1190 | | |
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| 1175 | 1191 | | SEC. 15. Section 1569.58 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
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| 1176 | 1192 | | |
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| 1177 | 1193 | | ### SEC. 15. |
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| 1178 | 1194 | | |
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| 1179 | 1195 | | 1569.58. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a licensee, owning a beneficial ownership interest of 10 percent or more in a licensed facility, or being an administrator, officer, director, member, or manager of a licensee or entity controlling a licensee, and may further prohibit any licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client and who has done any of the following:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1569.17.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1569.50.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1180 | 1196 | | |
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| 1181 | 1197 | | 1569.58. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a licensee, owning a beneficial ownership interest of 10 percent or more in a licensed facility, or being an administrator, officer, director, member, or manager of a licensee or entity controlling a licensee, and may further prohibit any licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client and who has done any of the following:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1569.17.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1569.50.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1182 | 1198 | | |
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| 1183 | 1199 | | 1569.58. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a licensee, owning a beneficial ownership interest of 10 percent or more in a licensed facility, or being an administrator, officer, director, member, or manager of a licensee or entity controlling a licensee, and may further prohibit any licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client and who has done any of the following:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1569.17.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1569.50.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1184 | 1200 | | |
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| 1185 | 1201 | | |
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| 1186 | 1202 | | |
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| 1187 | 1203 | | 1569.58. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a licensee, owning a beneficial ownership interest of 10 percent or more in a licensed facility, or being an administrator, officer, director, member, or manager of a licensee or entity controlling a licensee, and may further prohibit any licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client and who has done any of the following: |
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| 1188 | 1204 | | |
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| 1189 | 1205 | | (1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter. |
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| 1190 | 1206 | | |
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| 1191 | 1207 | | (2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California. |
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| 1192 | 1208 | | |
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| 1193 | 1209 | | (3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1569.17. |
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| 1194 | 1210 | | |
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| 1195 | 1211 | | (4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee. |
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| 1196 | 1212 | | |
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| 1197 | 1213 | | (5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients. |
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| 1198 | 1214 | | |
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| 1199 | 1215 | | (b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final. |
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| 1200 | 1216 | | |
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| 1201 | 1217 | | (c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety. |
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| 1202 | 1218 | | |
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| 1203 | 1219 | | (2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing. |
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| 1204 | 1220 | | |
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| 1205 | 1221 | | (3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal: |
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| 1206 | 1222 | | |
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| 1207 | 1223 | | (A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person. |
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| 1208 | 1224 | | |
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| 1209 | 1225 | | (B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the excluded person pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation. |
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| 1210 | 1226 | | |
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| 1211 | 1227 | | (4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed. |
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| 1212 | 1228 | | |
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| 1213 | 1229 | | (d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated. |
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| 1214 | 1230 | | |
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| 1215 | 1231 | | (e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department. |
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| 1216 | 1232 | | |
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| 1217 | 1233 | | (f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee, or prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility. |
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| 1218 | 1234 | | |
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| 1219 | 1235 | | (g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1569.50. |
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| 1220 | 1236 | | |
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| 1221 | 1237 | | (h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department. |
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| 1222 | 1238 | | |
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| 1223 | 1239 | | (B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order. |
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| 1224 | 1240 | | |
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| 1225 | 1241 | | (2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department. |
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| 1226 | 1242 | | |
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| 1227 | 1243 | | (B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order. |
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| 1228 | 1244 | | |
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| 1229 | 1245 | | (i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1230 | 1246 | | |
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| 1231 | 1247 | | SEC. 16. Section 1596.8897 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1596.8897. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1596.871.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the employee or prospective employee pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, the executive director, or an officer of a licensee prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1596.885 or 1596.886.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1232 | 1248 | | |
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| 1233 | 1249 | | SEC. 16. Section 1596.8897 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read: |
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| 1234 | 1250 | | |
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| 1235 | 1251 | | ### SEC. 16. |
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| 1236 | 1252 | | |
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| 1237 | 1253 | | 1596.8897. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1596.871.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the employee or prospective employee pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, the executive director, or an officer of a licensee prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1596.885 or 1596.886.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1238 | 1254 | | |
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| 1239 | 1255 | | 1596.8897. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1596.871.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the employee or prospective employee pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, the executive director, or an officer of a licensee prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1596.885 or 1596.886.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1240 | 1256 | | |
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| 1241 | 1257 | | 1596.8897. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has:(1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter.(2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California.(3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1596.871.(4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee.(5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients.(b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final.(c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety.(2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing.(3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal:(A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person.(B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the employee or prospective employee pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation.(4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed.(d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated.(e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department.(f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, the executive director, or an officer of a licensee prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility.(g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1596.885 or 1596.886.(h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order.(2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department.(B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order.(i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
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| 1242 | 1258 | | |
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| 1243 | 1259 | | |
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| 1244 | 1260 | | |
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| 1245 | 1261 | | 1596.8897. (a) The department may prohibit any person from being a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or a licensee from employing, or continuing the employment of, or allowing in a licensed facility, or allowing contact with clients of a licensed facility by, any employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client who has: |
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| 1246 | 1262 | | |
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| 1247 | 1263 | | (1) Violated, or aided or permitted the violation by any other person of, any provisions of this chapter or of any rules or regulations promulgated under this chapter. |
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| 1248 | 1264 | | |
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| 1249 | 1265 | | (2) Engaged in conduct that is inimical to the health, morals, welfare, or safety of either an individual in or receiving services from the facility, or the people of the State of California. |
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| 1250 | 1266 | | |
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| 1251 | 1267 | | (3) Been denied an exemption to work or to be present in a facility, when that person has been convicted of a crime as defined in Section 1596.871. |
|---|
| 1252 | 1268 | | |
|---|
| 1253 | 1269 | | (4) Engaged in any other conduct that would constitute a basis for disciplining a licensee. |
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| 1254 | 1270 | | |
|---|
| 1255 | 1271 | | (5) Engaged in acts of financial malfeasance concerning the operation of a facility, including, but not limited to, improper use or embezzlement of client moneys and property or fraudulent appropriation for personal gain of facility moneys and property, or willful or negligent failure to provide services for the care of clients. |
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| 1256 | 1272 | | |
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| 1257 | 1273 | | (b) The excluded person, the facility, and the licensee shall be given written notice of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to an appeal. The notice shall be served either by personal service or by registered mail. Within 15 days after the department serves the notice, the excluded person may file with the department a written appeal of the exclusion order. If the excluded person fails to file a written appeal within the prescribed time, the departments action shall be final. |
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| 1258 | 1274 | | |
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| 1259 | 1275 | | (c) (1) The department may require the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility pending a final decision of the matter, when, in the opinion of the department, the action is necessary to protect residents or clients from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to their health or safety. |
|---|
| 1260 | 1276 | | |
|---|
| 1261 | 1277 | | (2) If the department requires the immediate removal of a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or exclusion of an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client from a facility, the department shall serve an order of immediate exclusion upon the excluded person that shall notify the excluded person of the basis of the departments action and of the excluded persons right to a hearing. |
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| 1262 | 1278 | | |
|---|
| 1263 | 1279 | | (3) Within 15 days after the department serves an order of immediate exclusion, the excluded person may file a written appeal of the exclusion with the department. The departments action shall be final if the excluded person does not appeal the exclusion within the prescribed time. The department shall do the following upon receipt of a written appeal: |
|---|
| 1264 | 1280 | | |
|---|
| 1265 | 1281 | | (A) Within 30 days of receipt of the appeal, serve an accusation upon the excluded person. |
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| 1266 | 1282 | | |
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| 1267 | 1283 | | (B) Within 60 days of receipt of a notice of defense by the employee or prospective employee pursuant to Section 11506 of the Government Code, conduct a hearing on the accusation. |
|---|
| 1268 | 1284 | | |
|---|
| 1269 | 1285 | | (4) An order of immediate exclusion of the excluded person from the facility shall remain in effect until the hearing is completed and the department has made a final determination on the merits. However, the order of immediate exclusion shall be deemed vacated if the department fails to make a final determination on the merits within 60 days after the original hearing has been completed. |
|---|
| 1270 | 1286 | | |
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| 1271 | 1287 | | (d) An excluded person who files a written appeal of the exclusion order with the department pursuant to this section shall, as part of the written request, provide their current mailing address. The excluded person shall subsequently notify the department in writing of any change in mailing address, until the hearing process has been completed or terminated. |
|---|
| 1272 | 1288 | | |
|---|
| 1273 | 1289 | | (e) Hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. The standard of proof shall be the preponderance of the evidence and the burden of proof shall be on the department. |
|---|
| 1274 | 1290 | | |
|---|
| 1275 | 1291 | | (f) The department may institute or continue a disciplinary proceeding against a member of the board of directors, an executive director, or an officer of a licensee or an employee, prospective employee, or person who is not a client upon any ground provided by this section. The department may enter an order prohibiting any person from being a member of the board of directors, the executive director, or an officer of a licensee prohibiting the excluded persons employment or presence in the facility, or otherwise take disciplinary action against the excluded person, notwithstanding any resignation, withdrawal of employment application, or change of duties by the excluded person, or any discharge, failure to hire, or reassignment of the excluded person by the licensee or that the excluded person no longer has contact with clients at the facility. |
|---|
| 1276 | 1292 | | |
|---|
| 1277 | 1293 | | (g) A licensees failure to comply with the departments exclusion order after being notified of the order shall be grounds for disciplining the licensee pursuant to Section 1596.885 or 1596.886. |
|---|
| 1278 | 1294 | | |
|---|
| 1279 | 1295 | | (h) (1) (A) In cases in which the excluded person appealed the exclusion order and there is a decision and order upholding the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or from being a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department. |
|---|
| 1280 | 1296 | | |
|---|
| 1281 | 1297 | | (B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement one year after the effective date of the decision and order of the department upholding the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the decision and order. |
|---|
| 1282 | 1298 | | |
|---|
| 1283 | 1299 | | (2) (A) In cases in which the department informed the excluded person of their right to appeal the exclusion order and the excluded person did not appeal the exclusion order, the person shall be prohibited from working in any facility or being licensed to operate any facility licensed by the department or a certified foster parent or resource family for the remainder of the excluded persons life, unless otherwise ordered by the department. |
|---|
| 1284 | 1300 | | |
|---|
| 1285 | 1301 | | (B) The excluded individual may petition for reinstatement after one year has elapsed from the date of the notification of the exclusion order pursuant to Section 11522 of the Government Code. The department shall provide the excluded person with a copy of Section 11522 of the Government Code with the exclusion order. |
|---|
| 1286 | 1302 | | |
|---|
| 1287 | 1303 | | (i) For purposes of this section, exclusion, as specified in subdivision (a), shall include exclusion from the home of a resource family, as defined in Section 1517 of this code and Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. |
|---|
| 1288 | 1304 | | |
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| 1289 | 1305 | | SEC. 17. Section 11172 of the Penal Code is amended to read:11172. (a) No mandated reporter shall be civilly or criminally liable for any report required or authorized by this article, and this immunity shall apply even if the mandated reporter acquired the knowledge or reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect outside of their professional capacity or outside the scope of their employment. Any other person reporting a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of any report authorized by this article unless it can be proven that a false report was made and the person knew that the report was false or was made with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report, and any person who makes a report of child abuse or neglect known to be false or with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report is liable for any damages caused. No person required to make a report pursuant to this article, nor any person taking photographs at their direction, shall incur any civil or criminal liability for taking photographs of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, or causing photographs to be taken of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, without parental consent, or for disseminating the photographs, images, or material with the reports required by this article. However, this section shall not be construed to grant immunity from this liability with respect to any other use of the photographs.(b) Any person, who, pursuant to a request from a government agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the requesting agency with access to the victim of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that access.(c) Any commercial computer technician, and any employer of any commercial computer technician, who, pursuant to a warrant from a law enforcement agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the law enforcement agency with a computer or computer component which contains possible evidence of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that computer or computer component to the law enforcement agency.(d) Any person who, in good faith, provides information or assistance, including medical evaluations or consultations, to an agency specified in Section 11165.9, in connection with a report, investigation, or legal intervention pursuant to a good faith report of child abuse or neglect under this article, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that information or assistance. This subdivision does not grant immunity from liability for an individual who is suspected of committing abuse or neglect of the child who is the subject of the report.(e) (1) The Legislature finds that even though it has provided immunity from liability to persons required or authorized to make reports pursuant to this article, that immunity does not eliminate the possibility that actions may be brought against those persons based upon required or authorized reports. In order to further limit the financial hardship that those persons may incur as a result of fulfilling their legal responsibilities, it is necessary that they not be unfairly burdened by legal fees incurred in defending those actions. Therefore, a mandated reporter may present a claim to the Department of General Services for reasonable attorneys fees and costs incurred in any action against that person on the basis of making a report required or authorized by this article if the court has dismissed the action upon a demurrer or motion for summary judgment made by that person, or if they prevail in the action. The Department of General Services shall allow that claim if the requirements of this subdivision are met, and the claim shall be paid from an appropriation to be made for that purpose. Attorneys fees awarded pursuant to this section shall not exceed an hourly rate greater than the rate charged by the Attorney General of the State of California at the time the award is made and shall not exceed an aggregate amount of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000).(2) This subdivision shall not apply if a public entity has provided for the defense of the action pursuant to Section 995 of the Government Code.(f) A court may award attorneys fees and costs to a commercial film and photographic print processor when a suit is brought against the processor because of a disclosure mandated by this article and the court finds this suit to be frivolous. |
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| 1290 | 1306 | | |
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| 1291 | 1307 | | SEC. 17. Section 11172 of the Penal Code is amended to read: |
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| 1292 | 1308 | | |
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| 1293 | 1309 | | ### SEC. 17. |
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| 1294 | 1310 | | |
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| 1295 | 1311 | | 11172. (a) No mandated reporter shall be civilly or criminally liable for any report required or authorized by this article, and this immunity shall apply even if the mandated reporter acquired the knowledge or reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect outside of their professional capacity or outside the scope of their employment. Any other person reporting a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of any report authorized by this article unless it can be proven that a false report was made and the person knew that the report was false or was made with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report, and any person who makes a report of child abuse or neglect known to be false or with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report is liable for any damages caused. No person required to make a report pursuant to this article, nor any person taking photographs at their direction, shall incur any civil or criminal liability for taking photographs of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, or causing photographs to be taken of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, without parental consent, or for disseminating the photographs, images, or material with the reports required by this article. However, this section shall not be construed to grant immunity from this liability with respect to any other use of the photographs.(b) Any person, who, pursuant to a request from a government agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the requesting agency with access to the victim of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that access.(c) Any commercial computer technician, and any employer of any commercial computer technician, who, pursuant to a warrant from a law enforcement agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the law enforcement agency with a computer or computer component which contains possible evidence of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that computer or computer component to the law enforcement agency.(d) Any person who, in good faith, provides information or assistance, including medical evaluations or consultations, to an agency specified in Section 11165.9, in connection with a report, investigation, or legal intervention pursuant to a good faith report of child abuse or neglect under this article, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that information or assistance. This subdivision does not grant immunity from liability for an individual who is suspected of committing abuse or neglect of the child who is the subject of the report.(e) (1) The Legislature finds that even though it has provided immunity from liability to persons required or authorized to make reports pursuant to this article, that immunity does not eliminate the possibility that actions may be brought against those persons based upon required or authorized reports. In order to further limit the financial hardship that those persons may incur as a result of fulfilling their legal responsibilities, it is necessary that they not be unfairly burdened by legal fees incurred in defending those actions. Therefore, a mandated reporter may present a claim to the Department of General Services for reasonable attorneys fees and costs incurred in any action against that person on the basis of making a report required or authorized by this article if the court has dismissed the action upon a demurrer or motion for summary judgment made by that person, or if they prevail in the action. The Department of General Services shall allow that claim if the requirements of this subdivision are met, and the claim shall be paid from an appropriation to be made for that purpose. Attorneys fees awarded pursuant to this section shall not exceed an hourly rate greater than the rate charged by the Attorney General of the State of California at the time the award is made and shall not exceed an aggregate amount of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000).(2) This subdivision shall not apply if a public entity has provided for the defense of the action pursuant to Section 995 of the Government Code.(f) A court may award attorneys fees and costs to a commercial film and photographic print processor when a suit is brought against the processor because of a disclosure mandated by this article and the court finds this suit to be frivolous. |
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| 1296 | 1312 | | |
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| 1297 | 1313 | | 11172. (a) No mandated reporter shall be civilly or criminally liable for any report required or authorized by this article, and this immunity shall apply even if the mandated reporter acquired the knowledge or reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect outside of their professional capacity or outside the scope of their employment. Any other person reporting a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of any report authorized by this article unless it can be proven that a false report was made and the person knew that the report was false or was made with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report, and any person who makes a report of child abuse or neglect known to be false or with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report is liable for any damages caused. No person required to make a report pursuant to this article, nor any person taking photographs at their direction, shall incur any civil or criminal liability for taking photographs of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, or causing photographs to be taken of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, without parental consent, or for disseminating the photographs, images, or material with the reports required by this article. However, this section shall not be construed to grant immunity from this liability with respect to any other use of the photographs.(b) Any person, who, pursuant to a request from a government agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the requesting agency with access to the victim of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that access.(c) Any commercial computer technician, and any employer of any commercial computer technician, who, pursuant to a warrant from a law enforcement agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the law enforcement agency with a computer or computer component which contains possible evidence of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that computer or computer component to the law enforcement agency.(d) Any person who, in good faith, provides information or assistance, including medical evaluations or consultations, to an agency specified in Section 11165.9, in connection with a report, investigation, or legal intervention pursuant to a good faith report of child abuse or neglect under this article, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that information or assistance. This subdivision does not grant immunity from liability for an individual who is suspected of committing abuse or neglect of the child who is the subject of the report.(e) (1) The Legislature finds that even though it has provided immunity from liability to persons required or authorized to make reports pursuant to this article, that immunity does not eliminate the possibility that actions may be brought against those persons based upon required or authorized reports. In order to further limit the financial hardship that those persons may incur as a result of fulfilling their legal responsibilities, it is necessary that they not be unfairly burdened by legal fees incurred in defending those actions. Therefore, a mandated reporter may present a claim to the Department of General Services for reasonable attorneys fees and costs incurred in any action against that person on the basis of making a report required or authorized by this article if the court has dismissed the action upon a demurrer or motion for summary judgment made by that person, or if they prevail in the action. The Department of General Services shall allow that claim if the requirements of this subdivision are met, and the claim shall be paid from an appropriation to be made for that purpose. Attorneys fees awarded pursuant to this section shall not exceed an hourly rate greater than the rate charged by the Attorney General of the State of California at the time the award is made and shall not exceed an aggregate amount of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000).(2) This subdivision shall not apply if a public entity has provided for the defense of the action pursuant to Section 995 of the Government Code.(f) A court may award attorneys fees and costs to a commercial film and photographic print processor when a suit is brought against the processor because of a disclosure mandated by this article and the court finds this suit to be frivolous. |
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| 1298 | 1314 | | |
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| 1299 | 1315 | | 11172. (a) No mandated reporter shall be civilly or criminally liable for any report required or authorized by this article, and this immunity shall apply even if the mandated reporter acquired the knowledge or reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect outside of their professional capacity or outside the scope of their employment. Any other person reporting a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of any report authorized by this article unless it can be proven that a false report was made and the person knew that the report was false or was made with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report, and any person who makes a report of child abuse or neglect known to be false or with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report is liable for any damages caused. No person required to make a report pursuant to this article, nor any person taking photographs at their direction, shall incur any civil or criminal liability for taking photographs of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, or causing photographs to be taken of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, without parental consent, or for disseminating the photographs, images, or material with the reports required by this article. However, this section shall not be construed to grant immunity from this liability with respect to any other use of the photographs.(b) Any person, who, pursuant to a request from a government agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the requesting agency with access to the victim of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that access.(c) Any commercial computer technician, and any employer of any commercial computer technician, who, pursuant to a warrant from a law enforcement agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the law enforcement agency with a computer or computer component which contains possible evidence of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that computer or computer component to the law enforcement agency.(d) Any person who, in good faith, provides information or assistance, including medical evaluations or consultations, to an agency specified in Section 11165.9, in connection with a report, investigation, or legal intervention pursuant to a good faith report of child abuse or neglect under this article, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that information or assistance. This subdivision does not grant immunity from liability for an individual who is suspected of committing abuse or neglect of the child who is the subject of the report.(e) (1) The Legislature finds that even though it has provided immunity from liability to persons required or authorized to make reports pursuant to this article, that immunity does not eliminate the possibility that actions may be brought against those persons based upon required or authorized reports. In order to further limit the financial hardship that those persons may incur as a result of fulfilling their legal responsibilities, it is necessary that they not be unfairly burdened by legal fees incurred in defending those actions. Therefore, a mandated reporter may present a claim to the Department of General Services for reasonable attorneys fees and costs incurred in any action against that person on the basis of making a report required or authorized by this article if the court has dismissed the action upon a demurrer or motion for summary judgment made by that person, or if they prevail in the action. The Department of General Services shall allow that claim if the requirements of this subdivision are met, and the claim shall be paid from an appropriation to be made for that purpose. Attorneys fees awarded pursuant to this section shall not exceed an hourly rate greater than the rate charged by the Attorney General of the State of California at the time the award is made and shall not exceed an aggregate amount of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000).(2) This subdivision shall not apply if a public entity has provided for the defense of the action pursuant to Section 995 of the Government Code.(f) A court may award attorneys fees and costs to a commercial film and photographic print processor when a suit is brought against the processor because of a disclosure mandated by this article and the court finds this suit to be frivolous. |
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| 1300 | 1316 | | |
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| 1301 | 1317 | | |
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| 1302 | 1318 | | |
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| 1303 | 1319 | | 11172. (a) No mandated reporter shall be civilly or criminally liable for any report required or authorized by this article, and this immunity shall apply even if the mandated reporter acquired the knowledge or reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect outside of their professional capacity or outside the scope of their employment. Any other person reporting a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of any report authorized by this article unless it can be proven that a false report was made and the person knew that the report was false or was made with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report, and any person who makes a report of child abuse or neglect known to be false or with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report is liable for any damages caused. No person required to make a report pursuant to this article, nor any person taking photographs at their direction, shall incur any civil or criminal liability for taking photographs of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, or causing photographs to be taken of a suspected victim of child abuse or neglect, without parental consent, or for disseminating the photographs, images, or material with the reports required by this article. However, this section shall not be construed to grant immunity from this liability with respect to any other use of the photographs. |
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| 1304 | 1320 | | |
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| 1305 | 1321 | | (b) Any person, who, pursuant to a request from a government agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the requesting agency with access to the victim of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that access. |
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| 1306 | 1322 | | |
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| 1307 | 1323 | | (c) Any commercial computer technician, and any employer of any commercial computer technician, who, pursuant to a warrant from a law enforcement agency investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, provides the law enforcement agency with a computer or computer component which contains possible evidence of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that computer or computer component to the law enforcement agency. |
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| 1308 | 1324 | | |
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| 1309 | 1325 | | (d) Any person who, in good faith, provides information or assistance, including medical evaluations or consultations, to an agency specified in Section 11165.9, in connection with a report, investigation, or legal intervention pursuant to a good faith report of child abuse or neglect under this article, shall not incur civil or criminal liability as a result of providing that information or assistance. This subdivision does not grant immunity from liability for an individual who is suspected of committing abuse or neglect of the child who is the subject of the report. |
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| 1310 | 1326 | | |
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| 1311 | 1327 | | (e) (1) The Legislature finds that even though it has provided immunity from liability to persons required or authorized to make reports pursuant to this article, that immunity does not eliminate the possibility that actions may be brought against those persons based upon required or authorized reports. In order to further limit the financial hardship that those persons may incur as a result of fulfilling their legal responsibilities, it is necessary that they not be unfairly burdened by legal fees incurred in defending those actions. Therefore, a mandated reporter may present a claim to the Department of General Services for reasonable attorneys fees and costs incurred in any action against that person on the basis of making a report required or authorized by this article if the court has dismissed the action upon a demurrer or motion for summary judgment made by that person, or if they prevail in the action. The Department of General Services shall allow that claim if the requirements of this subdivision are met, and the claim shall be paid from an appropriation to be made for that purpose. Attorneys fees awarded pursuant to this section shall not exceed an hourly rate greater than the rate charged by the Attorney General of the State of California at the time the award is made and shall not exceed an aggregate amount of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000). |
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| 1312 | 1328 | | |
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| 1313 | 1329 | | (2) This subdivision shall not apply if a public entity has provided for the defense of the action pursuant to Section 995 of the Government Code. |
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| 1314 | 1330 | | |
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| 1315 | 1331 | | (f) A court may award attorneys fees and costs to a commercial film and photographic print processor when a suit is brought against the processor because of a disclosure mandated by this article and the court finds this suit to be frivolous. |
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| 1316 | 1332 | | |
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| 1317 | 1333 | | SEC. 18. Section 366.3 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:366.3. (a) (1) If a juvenile court orders a permanent plan of adoption, tribal customary adoption, adoption of a nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31, or legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, the court shall retain jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent until the child or nonminor dependent is adopted or the legal guardianship is established, except as provided for in Section 366.29 or, on and after January 1, 2012, Section 366.32. The status of the child or nonminor dependent shall be reviewed every six months to ensure that the adoption or legal guardianship is completed as expeditiously as possible. Following a termination of parental rights, the parent or parents shall not be a party to, or receive notice of, any subsequent proceedings regarding the child.(2) When the adoption of the child or nonminor dependent has been granted, or in the case of a tribal customary adoption, when the tribal customary adoption order has been afforded full faith and credit and the petition for adoption has been granted, the court shall terminate its jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent.(3) Following establishment of a legal guardianship, the court may continue jurisdiction over the child as a dependent child of the juvenile court or may terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the legal guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4. If, however, a relative or nonrelative extended family member of the child is appointed the legal guardian of the child and the guardians home has been approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 for at least six months, the court shall, except if the relative or nonrelative extended family member guardian objects, or upon a finding of exceptional circumstances, terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4.(b) (1) If the court has dismissed dependency jurisdiction following the establishment of a legal guardianship, or no dependency jurisdiction attached because of the granting of a legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360, and the legal guardianship is subsequently revoked or otherwise terminated, the county department of social services or welfare department shall notify the juvenile court of this fact. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child.(2) Notwithstanding Section 1601 of the Probate Code, the proceedings to terminate a legal guardianship that has been granted pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26 shall be held either in the juvenile court that retains jurisdiction over the guardianship as authorized by Section 366.4 or the juvenile court in the county where the guardian and child currently reside, based on the best interests of the child, unless the termination is due to the emancipation or adoption of the child. The juvenile court having jurisdiction over the guardianship shall receive notice from the court in which the petition is filed within five calendar days of the filing. Prior to the hearing on a petition to terminate legal guardianship pursuant to this subdivision, the court shall order the county department of social services or welfare department having jurisdiction or jointly with the county department where the guardian and child currently reside to prepare a report, for the courts consideration, that shall include an evaluation of whether the child could safely remain in, or be returned to, the legal guardians home, without terminating the legal guardianship, if services were provided to the child or legal guardian. If applicable, the report shall also identify recommended family maintenance or reunification services to maintain the legal guardianship and set forth a plan for providing those services. If the petition to terminate legal guardianship is granted, either juvenile court may resume dependency jurisdiction over the child, and may order the county department of social services or welfare department to develop a new permanent plan, which shall be presented to the court within 60 days of the termination. If no dependency jurisdiction has attached, the social worker shall make any investigation the social worker deems necessary to determine whether the child may be within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, as provided in Section 328.(3) Unless the parental rights of the childs parent or parents have been terminated, they shall be notified that the legal guardianship has been revoked or terminated and shall be entitled to participate in the new permanency planning hearing. The court shall try to place the child in another permanent placement. At the hearing, the parents may be considered as custodians but the child shall not be returned to the parent or parents unless they prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that reunification is the best alternative for the child. The court may, if it is in the best interests of the child, order that reunification services again be provided to the parent or parents.(c) If, following the establishment of a legal guardianship, the county welfare department becomes aware of changed circumstances that indicate adoption or, for an Indian child, tribal customary adoption, may be an appropriate plan for the child, the department shall so notify the court. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child and order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26 to determine whether adoption or continued legal guardianship is the most appropriate plan for the child. The hearing shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the order. If the court orders that a hearing shall be held pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services if it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment under subdivision (b) of Section 366.22.(d) If the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent is in a placement other than the home of a legal guardian and jurisdiction has not been dismissed, the status of the child shall be reviewed at least every six months. The review of the status of a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption shall be conducted by the court. The review of the status of a child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent for whom the court has not ordered parental rights terminated and who has not been ordered placed for adoption may be conducted by the court or an appropriate local agency. The court shall conduct the review under the following circumstances:(1) Upon the request of the childs parents or legal guardians.(2) Upon the request of the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent.(3) It has been 12 months since a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 or an order that the child remain in foster care pursuant to Section 366.21, 366.22, 366.25, 366.26, or subdivision (h).(4) It has been 12 months since a review was conducted by the court.The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.(e) Except as provided in subdivision (g), at the review held every six months pursuant to subdivision (d), the reviewing body shall inquire about the progress being made to provide a permanent home for the child, shall consider the safety of the child, and shall determine all of the following:(1) The continuing necessity for, and appropriateness of, the placement.(2) Identification of individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to a child who is 10 years of age or older and has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer, and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The social worker shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer to identify individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to the child, and may ask any other child to provide that information, as appropriate. The social worker shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interests.(3) The continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the permanent plan for the child, including efforts to maintain relationships between a child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer and individuals who are important to the child and efforts to identify a prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange.(4) The extent of the agencys compliance with the child welfare services case plan in making reasonable efforts either to return the child to the safe home of the parent or to complete whatever steps are necessary to finalize the permanent placement of the child. If the reviewing body determines that a second period of reunification services is in the childs best interests, and that there is a significant likelihood of the childs return to a safe home due to changed circumstances of the parent, pursuant to subdivision (f), the specific reunification services required to effect the childs return to a safe home shall be described.(5) Whether there should be any limitation on the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child. That limitation shall be specifically addressed in the court order and may not exceed what is necessary to protect the child. If the court specifically limits the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child, the court shall at the same time appoint a responsible adult to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child pursuant to Section 361.(6) The adequacy of services provided to the child. The court shall consider the progress in providing the information and documents to the child, as described in Section 391. The court shall also consider the need for, and progress in providing, the assistance and services described in Section 391.(7) The extent of progress the parents or legal guardians have made toward alleviating or mitigating the causes necessitating placement in foster care.(8) The likely date by which the child may be returned to, and safely maintained in, the home, placed for adoption, legal guardianship, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or, if the child is 16 years of age or older, and no other permanent plan is appropriate at the time of the hearing, in another planned permanent living arrangement.(9) Whether the child has any siblings under the courts jurisdiction, and, if any siblings exist, all of the following:(A) The nature of the relationship between the child and their siblings.(B) The appropriateness of developing or maintaining the sibling relationships pursuant to Section 16002. At the first review conducted for a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, the court shall inquire into the status of the development of a voluntary postadoption sibling contact agreement pursuant to subdivision (e) of Section 16002.(C) If the siblings are not placed together in the same home, why the siblings are not placed together and what efforts are being made to place the siblings together, or why those efforts are not appropriate.(D) If the siblings are not placed together, all of the following:(i) The frequency and nature of the visits between the siblings.(ii) If there are visits between the siblings, whether the visits are supervised or unsupervised. If the visits are supervised, a discussion of the reasons why the visits are supervised, and what needs to be accomplished in order for the visits to be unsupervised.(iii) If there are visits between the siblings, a description of the location and length of the visits.(iv) Any plan to increase visitation between the siblings.(E) The impact of the sibling relationships on the childs placement and planning for legal permanence.The factors the court may consider as indicators of the nature of the childs sibling relationships include, but are not limited to, whether the siblings were raised together in the same home, whether the siblings have shared significant common experiences or have existing close and strong bonds, whether either sibling expresses a desire to visit or live with their sibling, as applicable, and whether ongoing contact is in the childs best emotional interests.(10) For a child who is 14 years of age or older, and, effective January 1, 2012, for a nonminor dependent, the services needed to assist the child or nonminor dependent to make the transition from foster care to successful adulthood.The reviewing body shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.Each licensed foster family agency shall submit reports for each child in its care, custody, and control to the court concerning the continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the childs permanent plan, the extent of compliance with the case plan, and the type and adequacy of services provided to the child.(f) Unless their parental rights have been permanently terminated, the parent or parents of the child are entitled to receive notice of, and participate in, those hearings. It shall be presumed that continued care is in the best interests of the child, unless the parent or parents prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that further efforts at reunification are the best alternative for the child. In those cases, the court may order that further reunification services to return the child to a safe home environment be provided to the parent or parents up to a period of six months, and family maintenance services, as needed for an additional six months in order to return the child to a safe home environment. On and after January 1, 2012, this subdivision shall not apply to the parents of a nonminor dependent.(g) At the review conducted by the court and held at least every six months, regarding a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child for whom parental rights are not being terminated and a tribal customary adoption is being considered, the county welfare department shall prepare and present to the court a report describing the following:(1) The childs present placement.(2) The childs current physical, mental, emotional, and educational status.(3) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or guardian, identification of individuals, other than the childs siblings, who are important to the child and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The agency shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older to identify any individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interest, and may ask any child who is younger than 10 years of age to provide that information as appropriate. The agency shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child.(4) Whether the child has been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents.(5) Whether an adoptive placement agreement has been signed and filed.(6) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents, the efforts made to identify an appropriate prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange.(7) Whether the final adoption order should include provisions for postadoptive sibling contact pursuant to Section 366.29.(8) The progress of the search for an adoptive placement if one has not been identified.(9) Any impediments to the adoption or the adoptive placement.(10) The anticipated date by which the child will be adopted or placed in an adoptive home.(11) The anticipated date by which an adoptive placement agreement will be signed.(12) Recommendations for court orders that will assist in the placement of the child for adoption or in the finalization of the adoption.The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.The court shall make appropriate orders to protect the stability of the child and to facilitate and expedite the permanent placement and adoption of the child.(h) (1) At the review held pursuant to subdivision (d) for a child in foster care, the court shall consider all permanency planning options for the child including whether the child should be returned to the home of the parent, placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or appointed a legal guardian, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, if compelling reasons exist for finding that none of the foregoing options are in the best interest of the child and the child is 16 years of age or older, whether the child should be placed in another planned permanent living arrangement. The court shall order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26, unless it determines by clear and convincing evidence that there is a compelling reason for determining that a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 is not in the best interest of the child because the child is being returned to the home of the parent, the child is not a proper subject for adoption, or no one is willing to accept legal guardianship as of the hearing date. If the county adoption agency, or the department when it is acting as an adoption agency, has determined it is unlikely that the child will be adopted or one of the conditions described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c) of Section 366.26 applies, that fact shall constitute a compelling reason for purposes of this subdivision. Only upon that determination may the court order that the child remain in foster care, without holding a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26. The court shall make factual findings identifying any barriers to achieving the permanent plan as of the hearing date. On and after January 1, 2012, the nonminor dependents legal status as an adult is in and of itself a compelling reason not to hold a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26.(2) When the child is 16 years of age or older and in another planned permanent living arrangement, the court shall do all of the following:(A) Ask the child about their desired permanency outcome.(B) Make a judicial determination explaining why, as of the hearing date, another planned permanent living arrangement is the best permanency plan for the child.(C) State for the record the compelling reason or reasons why it continues not to be in the best interest of the child to return home, be placed for adoption, be placed for tribal customary adoption in the case of an Indian child, be placed with a legal guardian, or be placed with a fit and willing relative.(3) When the child is 16 years of age or older and is in another planned permanent living arrangement, the social study prepared for the hearing shall include a description of all of the following:(A) The intensive and ongoing efforts to return the child to the home of the parent, place the child for adoption, or establish a legal guardianship, as appropriate.(B) The steps taken to do both of the following:(i) Ensure that the childs care provider is following the reasonable and prudent parent standard.(ii) Determine whether the child has regular, ongoing opportunities to engage in age or developmentally appropriate activities, including consulting with the child about opportunities for the child to participate in those activities.(4) When the child is under 16 years of age and has a permanent plan of return home, adoption, legal guardianship, or placement with a fit and willing relative, the social study shall include a description of any barriers to achieving the permanent plan and the efforts made by the agency to address those barriers.(i) If, as authorized by subdivision (h), the court orders a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services when it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment as provided for in subdivision (i) of Section 366.21 or subdivision (b) of Section 366.22. A hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the 12-month review at which it is ordered, and at that hearing the court shall determine whether adoption, tribal customary adoption, legal guardianship, placement with a fit and willing relative, or, for a child 16 years of age or older, another planned permanent living arrangement is the most appropriate plan for the child. On and after January 1, 2012, a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26 shall not be ordered if the child is a nonminor dependent, unless the nonminor dependent is an Indian child and tribal customary adoption is recommended as the permanent plan. The court may order that a nonminor dependent who otherwise is eligible pursuant to Section 11403 remain in a planned, permanent living arrangement. At the request of the nonminor dependent who has an established relationship with an adult determined to be the nonminor dependents permanent connection, the court may order adoption of the nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31.(j) The reviews conducted pursuant to subdivision (a) or (d) may be conducted earlier than every six months if the court determines that an earlier review is in the best interests of the child or as court rules prescribe. |
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| 1318 | 1334 | | |
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| 1319 | 1335 | | SEC. 18. Section 366.3 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read: |
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| 1320 | 1336 | | |
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| 1321 | 1337 | | ### SEC. 18. |
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| 1322 | 1338 | | |
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| 1323 | 1339 | | 366.3. (a) (1) If a juvenile court orders a permanent plan of adoption, tribal customary adoption, adoption of a nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31, or legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, the court shall retain jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent until the child or nonminor dependent is adopted or the legal guardianship is established, except as provided for in Section 366.29 or, on and after January 1, 2012, Section 366.32. The status of the child or nonminor dependent shall be reviewed every six months to ensure that the adoption or legal guardianship is completed as expeditiously as possible. Following a termination of parental rights, the parent or parents shall not be a party to, or receive notice of, any subsequent proceedings regarding the child.(2) When the adoption of the child or nonminor dependent has been granted, or in the case of a tribal customary adoption, when the tribal customary adoption order has been afforded full faith and credit and the petition for adoption has been granted, the court shall terminate its jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent.(3) Following establishment of a legal guardianship, the court may continue jurisdiction over the child as a dependent child of the juvenile court or may terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the legal guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4. If, however, a relative or nonrelative extended family member of the child is appointed the legal guardian of the child and the guardians home has been approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 for at least six months, the court shall, except if the relative or nonrelative extended family member guardian objects, or upon a finding of exceptional circumstances, terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4.(b) (1) If the court has dismissed dependency jurisdiction following the establishment of a legal guardianship, or no dependency jurisdiction attached because of the granting of a legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360, and the legal guardianship is subsequently revoked or otherwise terminated, the county department of social services or welfare department shall notify the juvenile court of this fact. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child.(2) Notwithstanding Section 1601 of the Probate Code, the proceedings to terminate a legal guardianship that has been granted pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26 shall be held either in the juvenile court that retains jurisdiction over the guardianship as authorized by Section 366.4 or the juvenile court in the county where the guardian and child currently reside, based on the best interests of the child, unless the termination is due to the emancipation or adoption of the child. The juvenile court having jurisdiction over the guardianship shall receive notice from the court in which the petition is filed within five calendar days of the filing. Prior to the hearing on a petition to terminate legal guardianship pursuant to this subdivision, the court shall order the county department of social services or welfare department having jurisdiction or jointly with the county department where the guardian and child currently reside to prepare a report, for the courts consideration, that shall include an evaluation of whether the child could safely remain in, or be returned to, the legal guardians home, without terminating the legal guardianship, if services were provided to the child or legal guardian. If applicable, the report shall also identify recommended family maintenance or reunification services to maintain the legal guardianship and set forth a plan for providing those services. If the petition to terminate legal guardianship is granted, either juvenile court may resume dependency jurisdiction over the child, and may order the county department of social services or welfare department to develop a new permanent plan, which shall be presented to the court within 60 days of the termination. If no dependency jurisdiction has attached, the social worker shall make any investigation the social worker deems necessary to determine whether the child may be within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, as provided in Section 328.(3) Unless the parental rights of the childs parent or parents have been terminated, they shall be notified that the legal guardianship has been revoked or terminated and shall be entitled to participate in the new permanency planning hearing. The court shall try to place the child in another permanent placement. At the hearing, the parents may be considered as custodians but the child shall not be returned to the parent or parents unless they prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that reunification is the best alternative for the child. The court may, if it is in the best interests of the child, order that reunification services again be provided to the parent or parents.(c) If, following the establishment of a legal guardianship, the county welfare department becomes aware of changed circumstances that indicate adoption or, for an Indian child, tribal customary adoption, may be an appropriate plan for the child, the department shall so notify the court. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child and order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26 to determine whether adoption or continued legal guardianship is the most appropriate plan for the child. The hearing shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the order. If the court orders that a hearing shall be held pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services if it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment under subdivision (b) of Section 366.22.(d) If the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent is in a placement other than the home of a legal guardian and jurisdiction has not been dismissed, the status of the child shall be reviewed at least every six months. The review of the status of a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption shall be conducted by the court. The review of the status of a child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent for whom the court has not ordered parental rights terminated and who has not been ordered placed for adoption may be conducted by the court or an appropriate local agency. The court shall conduct the review under the following circumstances:(1) Upon the request of the childs parents or legal guardians.(2) Upon the request of the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent.(3) It has been 12 months since a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 or an order that the child remain in foster care pursuant to Section 366.21, 366.22, 366.25, 366.26, or subdivision (h).(4) It has been 12 months since a review was conducted by the court.The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.(e) Except as provided in subdivision (g), at the review held every six months pursuant to subdivision (d), the reviewing body shall inquire about the progress being made to provide a permanent home for the child, shall consider the safety of the child, and shall determine all of the following:(1) The continuing necessity for, and appropriateness of, the placement.(2) Identification of individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to a child who is 10 years of age or older and has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer, and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The social worker shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer to identify individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to the child, and may ask any other child to provide that information, as appropriate. The social worker shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interests.(3) The continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the permanent plan for the child, including efforts to maintain relationships between a child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer and individuals who are important to the child and efforts to identify a prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange.(4) The extent of the agencys compliance with the child welfare services case plan in making reasonable efforts either to return the child to the safe home of the parent or to complete whatever steps are necessary to finalize the permanent placement of the child. If the reviewing body determines that a second period of reunification services is in the childs best interests, and that there is a significant likelihood of the childs return to a safe home due to changed circumstances of the parent, pursuant to subdivision (f), the specific reunification services required to effect the childs return to a safe home shall be described.(5) Whether there should be any limitation on the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child. That limitation shall be specifically addressed in the court order and may not exceed what is necessary to protect the child. If the court specifically limits the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child, the court shall at the same time appoint a responsible adult to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child pursuant to Section 361.(6) The adequacy of services provided to the child. The court shall consider the progress in providing the information and documents to the child, as described in Section 391. The court shall also consider the need for, and progress in providing, the assistance and services described in Section 391.(7) The extent of progress the parents or legal guardians have made toward alleviating or mitigating the causes necessitating placement in foster care.(8) The likely date by which the child may be returned to, and safely maintained in, the home, placed for adoption, legal guardianship, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or, if the child is 16 years of age or older, and no other permanent plan is appropriate at the time of the hearing, in another planned permanent living arrangement.(9) Whether the child has any siblings under the courts jurisdiction, and, if any siblings exist, all of the following:(A) The nature of the relationship between the child and their siblings.(B) The appropriateness of developing or maintaining the sibling relationships pursuant to Section 16002. At the first review conducted for a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, the court shall inquire into the status of the development of a voluntary postadoption sibling contact agreement pursuant to subdivision (e) of Section 16002.(C) If the siblings are not placed together in the same home, why the siblings are not placed together and what efforts are being made to place the siblings together, or why those efforts are not appropriate.(D) If the siblings are not placed together, all of the following:(i) The frequency and nature of the visits between the siblings.(ii) If there are visits between the siblings, whether the visits are supervised or unsupervised. If the visits are supervised, a discussion of the reasons why the visits are supervised, and what needs to be accomplished in order for the visits to be unsupervised.(iii) If there are visits between the siblings, a description of the location and length of the visits.(iv) Any plan to increase visitation between the siblings.(E) The impact of the sibling relationships on the childs placement and planning for legal permanence.The factors the court may consider as indicators of the nature of the childs sibling relationships include, but are not limited to, whether the siblings were raised together in the same home, whether the siblings have shared significant common experiences or have existing close and strong bonds, whether either sibling expresses a desire to visit or live with their sibling, as applicable, and whether ongoing contact is in the childs best emotional interests.(10) For a child who is 14 years of age or older, and, effective January 1, 2012, for a nonminor dependent, the services needed to assist the child or nonminor dependent to make the transition from foster care to successful adulthood.The reviewing body shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.Each licensed foster family agency shall submit reports for each child in its care, custody, and control to the court concerning the continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the childs permanent plan, the extent of compliance with the case plan, and the type and adequacy of services provided to the child.(f) Unless their parental rights have been permanently terminated, the parent or parents of the child are entitled to receive notice of, and participate in, those hearings. It shall be presumed that continued care is in the best interests of the child, unless the parent or parents prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that further efforts at reunification are the best alternative for the child. In those cases, the court may order that further reunification services to return the child to a safe home environment be provided to the parent or parents up to a period of six months, and family maintenance services, as needed for an additional six months in order to return the child to a safe home environment. On and after January 1, 2012, this subdivision shall not apply to the parents of a nonminor dependent.(g) At the review conducted by the court and held at least every six months, regarding a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child for whom parental rights are not being terminated and a tribal customary adoption is being considered, the county welfare department shall prepare and present to the court a report describing the following:(1) The childs present placement.(2) The childs current physical, mental, emotional, and educational status.(3) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or guardian, identification of individuals, other than the childs siblings, who are important to the child and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The agency shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older to identify any individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interest, and may ask any child who is younger than 10 years of age to provide that information as appropriate. The agency shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child.(4) Whether the child has been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents.(5) Whether an adoptive placement agreement has been signed and filed.(6) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents, the efforts made to identify an appropriate prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange.(7) Whether the final adoption order should include provisions for postadoptive sibling contact pursuant to Section 366.29.(8) The progress of the search for an adoptive placement if one has not been identified.(9) Any impediments to the adoption or the adoptive placement.(10) The anticipated date by which the child will be adopted or placed in an adoptive home.(11) The anticipated date by which an adoptive placement agreement will be signed.(12) Recommendations for court orders that will assist in the placement of the child for adoption or in the finalization of the adoption.The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.The court shall make appropriate orders to protect the stability of the child and to facilitate and expedite the permanent placement and adoption of the child.(h) (1) At the review held pursuant to subdivision (d) for a child in foster care, the court shall consider all permanency planning options for the child including whether the child should be returned to the home of the parent, placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or appointed a legal guardian, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, if compelling reasons exist for finding that none of the foregoing options are in the best interest of the child and the child is 16 years of age or older, whether the child should be placed in another planned permanent living arrangement. The court shall order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26, unless it determines by clear and convincing evidence that there is a compelling reason for determining that a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 is not in the best interest of the child because the child is being returned to the home of the parent, the child is not a proper subject for adoption, or no one is willing to accept legal guardianship as of the hearing date. If the county adoption agency, or the department when it is acting as an adoption agency, has determined it is unlikely that the child will be adopted or one of the conditions described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c) of Section 366.26 applies, that fact shall constitute a compelling reason for purposes of this subdivision. Only upon that determination may the court order that the child remain in foster care, without holding a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26. The court shall make factual findings identifying any barriers to achieving the permanent plan as of the hearing date. On and after January 1, 2012, the nonminor dependents legal status as an adult is in and of itself a compelling reason not to hold a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26.(2) When the child is 16 years of age or older and in another planned permanent living arrangement, the court shall do all of the following:(A) Ask the child about their desired permanency outcome.(B) Make a judicial determination explaining why, as of the hearing date, another planned permanent living arrangement is the best permanency plan for the child.(C) State for the record the compelling reason or reasons why it continues not to be in the best interest of the child to return home, be placed for adoption, be placed for tribal customary adoption in the case of an Indian child, be placed with a legal guardian, or be placed with a fit and willing relative.(3) When the child is 16 years of age or older and is in another planned permanent living arrangement, the social study prepared for the hearing shall include a description of all of the following:(A) The intensive and ongoing efforts to return the child to the home of the parent, place the child for adoption, or establish a legal guardianship, as appropriate.(B) The steps taken to do both of the following:(i) Ensure that the childs care provider is following the reasonable and prudent parent standard.(ii) Determine whether the child has regular, ongoing opportunities to engage in age or developmentally appropriate activities, including consulting with the child about opportunities for the child to participate in those activities.(4) When the child is under 16 years of age and has a permanent plan of return home, adoption, legal guardianship, or placement with a fit and willing relative, the social study shall include a description of any barriers to achieving the permanent plan and the efforts made by the agency to address those barriers.(i) If, as authorized by subdivision (h), the court orders a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services when it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment as provided for in subdivision (i) of Section 366.21 or subdivision (b) of Section 366.22. A hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the 12-month review at which it is ordered, and at that hearing the court shall determine whether adoption, tribal customary adoption, legal guardianship, placement with a fit and willing relative, or, for a child 16 years of age or older, another planned permanent living arrangement is the most appropriate plan for the child. On and after January 1, 2012, a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26 shall not be ordered if the child is a nonminor dependent, unless the nonminor dependent is an Indian child and tribal customary adoption is recommended as the permanent plan. The court may order that a nonminor dependent who otherwise is eligible pursuant to Section 11403 remain in a planned, permanent living arrangement. At the request of the nonminor dependent who has an established relationship with an adult determined to be the nonminor dependents permanent connection, the court may order adoption of the nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31.(j) The reviews conducted pursuant to subdivision (a) or (d) may be conducted earlier than every six months if the court determines that an earlier review is in the best interests of the child or as court rules prescribe. |
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| 1324 | 1340 | | |
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| 1325 | 1341 | | 366.3. (a) (1) If a juvenile court orders a permanent plan of adoption, tribal customary adoption, adoption of a nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31, or legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, the court shall retain jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent until the child or nonminor dependent is adopted or the legal guardianship is established, except as provided for in Section 366.29 or, on and after January 1, 2012, Section 366.32. The status of the child or nonminor dependent shall be reviewed every six months to ensure that the adoption or legal guardianship is completed as expeditiously as possible. Following a termination of parental rights, the parent or parents shall not be a party to, or receive notice of, any subsequent proceedings regarding the child.(2) When the adoption of the child or nonminor dependent has been granted, or in the case of a tribal customary adoption, when the tribal customary adoption order has been afforded full faith and credit and the petition for adoption has been granted, the court shall terminate its jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent.(3) Following establishment of a legal guardianship, the court may continue jurisdiction over the child as a dependent child of the juvenile court or may terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the legal guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4. If, however, a relative or nonrelative extended family member of the child is appointed the legal guardian of the child and the guardians home has been approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 for at least six months, the court shall, except if the relative or nonrelative extended family member guardian objects, or upon a finding of exceptional circumstances, terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4.(b) (1) If the court has dismissed dependency jurisdiction following the establishment of a legal guardianship, or no dependency jurisdiction attached because of the granting of a legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360, and the legal guardianship is subsequently revoked or otherwise terminated, the county department of social services or welfare department shall notify the juvenile court of this fact. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child.(2) Notwithstanding Section 1601 of the Probate Code, the proceedings to terminate a legal guardianship that has been granted pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26 shall be held either in the juvenile court that retains jurisdiction over the guardianship as authorized by Section 366.4 or the juvenile court in the county where the guardian and child currently reside, based on the best interests of the child, unless the termination is due to the emancipation or adoption of the child. The juvenile court having jurisdiction over the guardianship shall receive notice from the court in which the petition is filed within five calendar days of the filing. Prior to the hearing on a petition to terminate legal guardianship pursuant to this subdivision, the court shall order the county department of social services or welfare department having jurisdiction or jointly with the county department where the guardian and child currently reside to prepare a report, for the courts consideration, that shall include an evaluation of whether the child could safely remain in, or be returned to, the legal guardians home, without terminating the legal guardianship, if services were provided to the child or legal guardian. If applicable, the report shall also identify recommended family maintenance or reunification services to maintain the legal guardianship and set forth a plan for providing those services. If the petition to terminate legal guardianship is granted, either juvenile court may resume dependency jurisdiction over the child, and may order the county department of social services or welfare department to develop a new permanent plan, which shall be presented to the court within 60 days of the termination. If no dependency jurisdiction has attached, the social worker shall make any investigation the social worker deems necessary to determine whether the child may be within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, as provided in Section 328.(3) Unless the parental rights of the childs parent or parents have been terminated, they shall be notified that the legal guardianship has been revoked or terminated and shall be entitled to participate in the new permanency planning hearing. The court shall try to place the child in another permanent placement. At the hearing, the parents may be considered as custodians but the child shall not be returned to the parent or parents unless they prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that reunification is the best alternative for the child. The court may, if it is in the best interests of the child, order that reunification services again be provided to the parent or parents.(c) If, following the establishment of a legal guardianship, the county welfare department becomes aware of changed circumstances that indicate adoption or, for an Indian child, tribal customary adoption, may be an appropriate plan for the child, the department shall so notify the court. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child and order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26 to determine whether adoption or continued legal guardianship is the most appropriate plan for the child. The hearing shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the order. If the court orders that a hearing shall be held pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services if it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment under subdivision (b) of Section 366.22.(d) If the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent is in a placement other than the home of a legal guardian and jurisdiction has not been dismissed, the status of the child shall be reviewed at least every six months. The review of the status of a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption shall be conducted by the court. The review of the status of a child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent for whom the court has not ordered parental rights terminated and who has not been ordered placed for adoption may be conducted by the court or an appropriate local agency. The court shall conduct the review under the following circumstances:(1) Upon the request of the childs parents or legal guardians.(2) Upon the request of the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent.(3) It has been 12 months since a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 or an order that the child remain in foster care pursuant to Section 366.21, 366.22, 366.25, 366.26, or subdivision (h).(4) It has been 12 months since a review was conducted by the court.The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.(e) Except as provided in subdivision (g), at the review held every six months pursuant to subdivision (d), the reviewing body shall inquire about the progress being made to provide a permanent home for the child, shall consider the safety of the child, and shall determine all of the following:(1) The continuing necessity for, and appropriateness of, the placement.(2) Identification of individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to a child who is 10 years of age or older and has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer, and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The social worker shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer to identify individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to the child, and may ask any other child to provide that information, as appropriate. The social worker shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interests.(3) The continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the permanent plan for the child, including efforts to maintain relationships between a child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer and individuals who are important to the child and efforts to identify a prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange.(4) The extent of the agencys compliance with the child welfare services case plan in making reasonable efforts either to return the child to the safe home of the parent or to complete whatever steps are necessary to finalize the permanent placement of the child. If the reviewing body determines that a second period of reunification services is in the childs best interests, and that there is a significant likelihood of the childs return to a safe home due to changed circumstances of the parent, pursuant to subdivision (f), the specific reunification services required to effect the childs return to a safe home shall be described.(5) Whether there should be any limitation on the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child. That limitation shall be specifically addressed in the court order and may not exceed what is necessary to protect the child. If the court specifically limits the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child, the court shall at the same time appoint a responsible adult to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child pursuant to Section 361.(6) The adequacy of services provided to the child. The court shall consider the progress in providing the information and documents to the child, as described in Section 391. The court shall also consider the need for, and progress in providing, the assistance and services described in Section 391.(7) The extent of progress the parents or legal guardians have made toward alleviating or mitigating the causes necessitating placement in foster care.(8) The likely date by which the child may be returned to, and safely maintained in, the home, placed for adoption, legal guardianship, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or, if the child is 16 years of age or older, and no other permanent plan is appropriate at the time of the hearing, in another planned permanent living arrangement.(9) Whether the child has any siblings under the courts jurisdiction, and, if any siblings exist, all of the following:(A) The nature of the relationship between the child and their siblings.(B) The appropriateness of developing or maintaining the sibling relationships pursuant to Section 16002. At the first review conducted for a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, the court shall inquire into the status of the development of a voluntary postadoption sibling contact agreement pursuant to subdivision (e) of Section 16002.(C) If the siblings are not placed together in the same home, why the siblings are not placed together and what efforts are being made to place the siblings together, or why those efforts are not appropriate.(D) If the siblings are not placed together, all of the following:(i) The frequency and nature of the visits between the siblings.(ii) If there are visits between the siblings, whether the visits are supervised or unsupervised. If the visits are supervised, a discussion of the reasons why the visits are supervised, and what needs to be accomplished in order for the visits to be unsupervised.(iii) If there are visits between the siblings, a description of the location and length of the visits.(iv) Any plan to increase visitation between the siblings.(E) The impact of the sibling relationships on the childs placement and planning for legal permanence.The factors the court may consider as indicators of the nature of the childs sibling relationships include, but are not limited to, whether the siblings were raised together in the same home, whether the siblings have shared significant common experiences or have existing close and strong bonds, whether either sibling expresses a desire to visit or live with their sibling, as applicable, and whether ongoing contact is in the childs best emotional interests.(10) For a child who is 14 years of age or older, and, effective January 1, 2012, for a nonminor dependent, the services needed to assist the child or nonminor dependent to make the transition from foster care to successful adulthood.The reviewing body shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.Each licensed foster family agency shall submit reports for each child in its care, custody, and control to the court concerning the continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the childs permanent plan, the extent of compliance with the case plan, and the type and adequacy of services provided to the child.(f) Unless their parental rights have been permanently terminated, the parent or parents of the child are entitled to receive notice of, and participate in, those hearings. It shall be presumed that continued care is in the best interests of the child, unless the parent or parents prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that further efforts at reunification are the best alternative for the child. In those cases, the court may order that further reunification services to return the child to a safe home environment be provided to the parent or parents up to a period of six months, and family maintenance services, as needed for an additional six months in order to return the child to a safe home environment. On and after January 1, 2012, this subdivision shall not apply to the parents of a nonminor dependent.(g) At the review conducted by the court and held at least every six months, regarding a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child for whom parental rights are not being terminated and a tribal customary adoption is being considered, the county welfare department shall prepare and present to the court a report describing the following:(1) The childs present placement.(2) The childs current physical, mental, emotional, and educational status.(3) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or guardian, identification of individuals, other than the childs siblings, who are important to the child and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The agency shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older to identify any individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interest, and may ask any child who is younger than 10 years of age to provide that information as appropriate. The agency shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child.(4) Whether the child has been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents.(5) Whether an adoptive placement agreement has been signed and filed.(6) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents, the efforts made to identify an appropriate prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange.(7) Whether the final adoption order should include provisions for postadoptive sibling contact pursuant to Section 366.29.(8) The progress of the search for an adoptive placement if one has not been identified.(9) Any impediments to the adoption or the adoptive placement.(10) The anticipated date by which the child will be adopted or placed in an adoptive home.(11) The anticipated date by which an adoptive placement agreement will be signed.(12) Recommendations for court orders that will assist in the placement of the child for adoption or in the finalization of the adoption.The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.The court shall make appropriate orders to protect the stability of the child and to facilitate and expedite the permanent placement and adoption of the child.(h) (1) At the review held pursuant to subdivision (d) for a child in foster care, the court shall consider all permanency planning options for the child including whether the child should be returned to the home of the parent, placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or appointed a legal guardian, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, if compelling reasons exist for finding that none of the foregoing options are in the best interest of the child and the child is 16 years of age or older, whether the child should be placed in another planned permanent living arrangement. The court shall order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26, unless it determines by clear and convincing evidence that there is a compelling reason for determining that a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 is not in the best interest of the child because the child is being returned to the home of the parent, the child is not a proper subject for adoption, or no one is willing to accept legal guardianship as of the hearing date. If the county adoption agency, or the department when it is acting as an adoption agency, has determined it is unlikely that the child will be adopted or one of the conditions described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c) of Section 366.26 applies, that fact shall constitute a compelling reason for purposes of this subdivision. Only upon that determination may the court order that the child remain in foster care, without holding a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26. The court shall make factual findings identifying any barriers to achieving the permanent plan as of the hearing date. On and after January 1, 2012, the nonminor dependents legal status as an adult is in and of itself a compelling reason not to hold a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26.(2) When the child is 16 years of age or older and in another planned permanent living arrangement, the court shall do all of the following:(A) Ask the child about their desired permanency outcome.(B) Make a judicial determination explaining why, as of the hearing date, another planned permanent living arrangement is the best permanency plan for the child.(C) State for the record the compelling reason or reasons why it continues not to be in the best interest of the child to return home, be placed for adoption, be placed for tribal customary adoption in the case of an Indian child, be placed with a legal guardian, or be placed with a fit and willing relative.(3) When the child is 16 years of age or older and is in another planned permanent living arrangement, the social study prepared for the hearing shall include a description of all of the following:(A) The intensive and ongoing efforts to return the child to the home of the parent, place the child for adoption, or establish a legal guardianship, as appropriate.(B) The steps taken to do both of the following:(i) Ensure that the childs care provider is following the reasonable and prudent parent standard.(ii) Determine whether the child has regular, ongoing opportunities to engage in age or developmentally appropriate activities, including consulting with the child about opportunities for the child to participate in those activities.(4) When the child is under 16 years of age and has a permanent plan of return home, adoption, legal guardianship, or placement with a fit and willing relative, the social study shall include a description of any barriers to achieving the permanent plan and the efforts made by the agency to address those barriers.(i) If, as authorized by subdivision (h), the court orders a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services when it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment as provided for in subdivision (i) of Section 366.21 or subdivision (b) of Section 366.22. A hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the 12-month review at which it is ordered, and at that hearing the court shall determine whether adoption, tribal customary adoption, legal guardianship, placement with a fit and willing relative, or, for a child 16 years of age or older, another planned permanent living arrangement is the most appropriate plan for the child. On and after January 1, 2012, a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26 shall not be ordered if the child is a nonminor dependent, unless the nonminor dependent is an Indian child and tribal customary adoption is recommended as the permanent plan. The court may order that a nonminor dependent who otherwise is eligible pursuant to Section 11403 remain in a planned, permanent living arrangement. At the request of the nonminor dependent who has an established relationship with an adult determined to be the nonminor dependents permanent connection, the court may order adoption of the nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31.(j) The reviews conducted pursuant to subdivision (a) or (d) may be conducted earlier than every six months if the court determines that an earlier review is in the best interests of the child or as court rules prescribe. |
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| 1326 | 1342 | | |
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| 1327 | 1343 | | 366.3. (a) (1) If a juvenile court orders a permanent plan of adoption, tribal customary adoption, adoption of a nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31, or legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, the court shall retain jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent until the child or nonminor dependent is adopted or the legal guardianship is established, except as provided for in Section 366.29 or, on and after January 1, 2012, Section 366.32. The status of the child or nonminor dependent shall be reviewed every six months to ensure that the adoption or legal guardianship is completed as expeditiously as possible. Following a termination of parental rights, the parent or parents shall not be a party to, or receive notice of, any subsequent proceedings regarding the child.(2) When the adoption of the child or nonminor dependent has been granted, or in the case of a tribal customary adoption, when the tribal customary adoption order has been afforded full faith and credit and the petition for adoption has been granted, the court shall terminate its jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent.(3) Following establishment of a legal guardianship, the court may continue jurisdiction over the child as a dependent child of the juvenile court or may terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the legal guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4. If, however, a relative or nonrelative extended family member of the child is appointed the legal guardian of the child and the guardians home has been approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 for at least six months, the court shall, except if the relative or nonrelative extended family member guardian objects, or upon a finding of exceptional circumstances, terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4.(b) (1) If the court has dismissed dependency jurisdiction following the establishment of a legal guardianship, or no dependency jurisdiction attached because of the granting of a legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360, and the legal guardianship is subsequently revoked or otherwise terminated, the county department of social services or welfare department shall notify the juvenile court of this fact. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child.(2) Notwithstanding Section 1601 of the Probate Code, the proceedings to terminate a legal guardianship that has been granted pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26 shall be held either in the juvenile court that retains jurisdiction over the guardianship as authorized by Section 366.4 or the juvenile court in the county where the guardian and child currently reside, based on the best interests of the child, unless the termination is due to the emancipation or adoption of the child. The juvenile court having jurisdiction over the guardianship shall receive notice from the court in which the petition is filed within five calendar days of the filing. Prior to the hearing on a petition to terminate legal guardianship pursuant to this subdivision, the court shall order the county department of social services or welfare department having jurisdiction or jointly with the county department where the guardian and child currently reside to prepare a report, for the courts consideration, that shall include an evaluation of whether the child could safely remain in, or be returned to, the legal guardians home, without terminating the legal guardianship, if services were provided to the child or legal guardian. If applicable, the report shall also identify recommended family maintenance or reunification services to maintain the legal guardianship and set forth a plan for providing those services. If the petition to terminate legal guardianship is granted, either juvenile court may resume dependency jurisdiction over the child, and may order the county department of social services or welfare department to develop a new permanent plan, which shall be presented to the court within 60 days of the termination. If no dependency jurisdiction has attached, the social worker shall make any investigation the social worker deems necessary to determine whether the child may be within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, as provided in Section 328.(3) Unless the parental rights of the childs parent or parents have been terminated, they shall be notified that the legal guardianship has been revoked or terminated and shall be entitled to participate in the new permanency planning hearing. The court shall try to place the child in another permanent placement. At the hearing, the parents may be considered as custodians but the child shall not be returned to the parent or parents unless they prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that reunification is the best alternative for the child. The court may, if it is in the best interests of the child, order that reunification services again be provided to the parent or parents.(c) If, following the establishment of a legal guardianship, the county welfare department becomes aware of changed circumstances that indicate adoption or, for an Indian child, tribal customary adoption, may be an appropriate plan for the child, the department shall so notify the court. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child and order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26 to determine whether adoption or continued legal guardianship is the most appropriate plan for the child. The hearing shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the order. If the court orders that a hearing shall be held pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services if it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment under subdivision (b) of Section 366.22.(d) If the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent is in a placement other than the home of a legal guardian and jurisdiction has not been dismissed, the status of the child shall be reviewed at least every six months. The review of the status of a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption shall be conducted by the court. The review of the status of a child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent for whom the court has not ordered parental rights terminated and who has not been ordered placed for adoption may be conducted by the court or an appropriate local agency. The court shall conduct the review under the following circumstances:(1) Upon the request of the childs parents or legal guardians.(2) Upon the request of the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent.(3) It has been 12 months since a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 or an order that the child remain in foster care pursuant to Section 366.21, 366.22, 366.25, 366.26, or subdivision (h).(4) It has been 12 months since a review was conducted by the court.The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.(e) Except as provided in subdivision (g), at the review held every six months pursuant to subdivision (d), the reviewing body shall inquire about the progress being made to provide a permanent home for the child, shall consider the safety of the child, and shall determine all of the following:(1) The continuing necessity for, and appropriateness of, the placement.(2) Identification of individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to a child who is 10 years of age or older and has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer, and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The social worker shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer to identify individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to the child, and may ask any other child to provide that information, as appropriate. The social worker shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interests.(3) The continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the permanent plan for the child, including efforts to maintain relationships between a child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer and individuals who are important to the child and efforts to identify a prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange.(4) The extent of the agencys compliance with the child welfare services case plan in making reasonable efforts either to return the child to the safe home of the parent or to complete whatever steps are necessary to finalize the permanent placement of the child. If the reviewing body determines that a second period of reunification services is in the childs best interests, and that there is a significant likelihood of the childs return to a safe home due to changed circumstances of the parent, pursuant to subdivision (f), the specific reunification services required to effect the childs return to a safe home shall be described.(5) Whether there should be any limitation on the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child. That limitation shall be specifically addressed in the court order and may not exceed what is necessary to protect the child. If the court specifically limits the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child, the court shall at the same time appoint a responsible adult to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child pursuant to Section 361.(6) The adequacy of services provided to the child. The court shall consider the progress in providing the information and documents to the child, as described in Section 391. The court shall also consider the need for, and progress in providing, the assistance and services described in Section 391.(7) The extent of progress the parents or legal guardians have made toward alleviating or mitigating the causes necessitating placement in foster care.(8) The likely date by which the child may be returned to, and safely maintained in, the home, placed for adoption, legal guardianship, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or, if the child is 16 years of age or older, and no other permanent plan is appropriate at the time of the hearing, in another planned permanent living arrangement.(9) Whether the child has any siblings under the courts jurisdiction, and, if any siblings exist, all of the following:(A) The nature of the relationship between the child and their siblings.(B) The appropriateness of developing or maintaining the sibling relationships pursuant to Section 16002. At the first review conducted for a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, the court shall inquire into the status of the development of a voluntary postadoption sibling contact agreement pursuant to subdivision (e) of Section 16002.(C) If the siblings are not placed together in the same home, why the siblings are not placed together and what efforts are being made to place the siblings together, or why those efforts are not appropriate.(D) If the siblings are not placed together, all of the following:(i) The frequency and nature of the visits between the siblings.(ii) If there are visits between the siblings, whether the visits are supervised or unsupervised. If the visits are supervised, a discussion of the reasons why the visits are supervised, and what needs to be accomplished in order for the visits to be unsupervised.(iii) If there are visits between the siblings, a description of the location and length of the visits.(iv) Any plan to increase visitation between the siblings.(E) The impact of the sibling relationships on the childs placement and planning for legal permanence.The factors the court may consider as indicators of the nature of the childs sibling relationships include, but are not limited to, whether the siblings were raised together in the same home, whether the siblings have shared significant common experiences or have existing close and strong bonds, whether either sibling expresses a desire to visit or live with their sibling, as applicable, and whether ongoing contact is in the childs best emotional interests.(10) For a child who is 14 years of age or older, and, effective January 1, 2012, for a nonminor dependent, the services needed to assist the child or nonminor dependent to make the transition from foster care to successful adulthood.The reviewing body shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.Each licensed foster family agency shall submit reports for each child in its care, custody, and control to the court concerning the continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the childs permanent plan, the extent of compliance with the case plan, and the type and adequacy of services provided to the child.(f) Unless their parental rights have been permanently terminated, the parent or parents of the child are entitled to receive notice of, and participate in, those hearings. It shall be presumed that continued care is in the best interests of the child, unless the parent or parents prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that further efforts at reunification are the best alternative for the child. In those cases, the court may order that further reunification services to return the child to a safe home environment be provided to the parent or parents up to a period of six months, and family maintenance services, as needed for an additional six months in order to return the child to a safe home environment. On and after January 1, 2012, this subdivision shall not apply to the parents of a nonminor dependent.(g) At the review conducted by the court and held at least every six months, regarding a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child for whom parental rights are not being terminated and a tribal customary adoption is being considered, the county welfare department shall prepare and present to the court a report describing the following:(1) The childs present placement.(2) The childs current physical, mental, emotional, and educational status.(3) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or guardian, identification of individuals, other than the childs siblings, who are important to the child and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The agency shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older to identify any individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interest, and may ask any child who is younger than 10 years of age to provide that information as appropriate. The agency shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child.(4) Whether the child has been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents.(5) Whether an adoptive placement agreement has been signed and filed.(6) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents, the efforts made to identify an appropriate prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange.(7) Whether the final adoption order should include provisions for postadoptive sibling contact pursuant to Section 366.29.(8) The progress of the search for an adoptive placement if one has not been identified.(9) Any impediments to the adoption or the adoptive placement.(10) The anticipated date by which the child will be adopted or placed in an adoptive home.(11) The anticipated date by which an adoptive placement agreement will be signed.(12) Recommendations for court orders that will assist in the placement of the child for adoption or in the finalization of the adoption.The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made.The court shall make appropriate orders to protect the stability of the child and to facilitate and expedite the permanent placement and adoption of the child.(h) (1) At the review held pursuant to subdivision (d) for a child in foster care, the court shall consider all permanency planning options for the child including whether the child should be returned to the home of the parent, placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or appointed a legal guardian, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, if compelling reasons exist for finding that none of the foregoing options are in the best interest of the child and the child is 16 years of age or older, whether the child should be placed in another planned permanent living arrangement. The court shall order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26, unless it determines by clear and convincing evidence that there is a compelling reason for determining that a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 is not in the best interest of the child because the child is being returned to the home of the parent, the child is not a proper subject for adoption, or no one is willing to accept legal guardianship as of the hearing date. If the county adoption agency, or the department when it is acting as an adoption agency, has determined it is unlikely that the child will be adopted or one of the conditions described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c) of Section 366.26 applies, that fact shall constitute a compelling reason for purposes of this subdivision. Only upon that determination may the court order that the child remain in foster care, without holding a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26. The court shall make factual findings identifying any barriers to achieving the permanent plan as of the hearing date. On and after January 1, 2012, the nonminor dependents legal status as an adult is in and of itself a compelling reason not to hold a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26.(2) When the child is 16 years of age or older and in another planned permanent living arrangement, the court shall do all of the following:(A) Ask the child about their desired permanency outcome.(B) Make a judicial determination explaining why, as of the hearing date, another planned permanent living arrangement is the best permanency plan for the child.(C) State for the record the compelling reason or reasons why it continues not to be in the best interest of the child to return home, be placed for adoption, be placed for tribal customary adoption in the case of an Indian child, be placed with a legal guardian, or be placed with a fit and willing relative.(3) When the child is 16 years of age or older and is in another planned permanent living arrangement, the social study prepared for the hearing shall include a description of all of the following:(A) The intensive and ongoing efforts to return the child to the home of the parent, place the child for adoption, or establish a legal guardianship, as appropriate.(B) The steps taken to do both of the following:(i) Ensure that the childs care provider is following the reasonable and prudent parent standard.(ii) Determine whether the child has regular, ongoing opportunities to engage in age or developmentally appropriate activities, including consulting with the child about opportunities for the child to participate in those activities.(4) When the child is under 16 years of age and has a permanent plan of return home, adoption, legal guardianship, or placement with a fit and willing relative, the social study shall include a description of any barriers to achieving the permanent plan and the efforts made by the agency to address those barriers.(i) If, as authorized by subdivision (h), the court orders a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services when it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment as provided for in subdivision (i) of Section 366.21 or subdivision (b) of Section 366.22. A hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the 12-month review at which it is ordered, and at that hearing the court shall determine whether adoption, tribal customary adoption, legal guardianship, placement with a fit and willing relative, or, for a child 16 years of age or older, another planned permanent living arrangement is the most appropriate plan for the child. On and after January 1, 2012, a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26 shall not be ordered if the child is a nonminor dependent, unless the nonminor dependent is an Indian child and tribal customary adoption is recommended as the permanent plan. The court may order that a nonminor dependent who otherwise is eligible pursuant to Section 11403 remain in a planned, permanent living arrangement. At the request of the nonminor dependent who has an established relationship with an adult determined to be the nonminor dependents permanent connection, the court may order adoption of the nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31.(j) The reviews conducted pursuant to subdivision (a) or (d) may be conducted earlier than every six months if the court determines that an earlier review is in the best interests of the child or as court rules prescribe. |
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| 1328 | 1344 | | |
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| 1329 | 1345 | | |
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| 1330 | 1346 | | |
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| 1331 | 1347 | | 366.3. (a) (1) If a juvenile court orders a permanent plan of adoption, tribal customary adoption, adoption of a nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31, or legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, the court shall retain jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent until the child or nonminor dependent is adopted or the legal guardianship is established, except as provided for in Section 366.29 or, on and after January 1, 2012, Section 366.32. The status of the child or nonminor dependent shall be reviewed every six months to ensure that the adoption or legal guardianship is completed as expeditiously as possible. Following a termination of parental rights, the parent or parents shall not be a party to, or receive notice of, any subsequent proceedings regarding the child. |
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| 1332 | 1348 | | |
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| 1333 | 1349 | | (2) When the adoption of the child or nonminor dependent has been granted, or in the case of a tribal customary adoption, when the tribal customary adoption order has been afforded full faith and credit and the petition for adoption has been granted, the court shall terminate its jurisdiction over the child or nonminor dependent. |
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| 1334 | 1350 | | |
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| 1335 | 1351 | | (3) Following establishment of a legal guardianship, the court may continue jurisdiction over the child as a dependent child of the juvenile court or may terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the legal guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4. If, however, a relative or nonrelative extended family member of the child is appointed the legal guardian of the child and the guardians home has been approved pursuant to Section 16519.5 for at least six months, the court shall, except if the relative or nonrelative extended family member guardian objects, or upon a finding of exceptional circumstances, terminate its dependency jurisdiction and retain jurisdiction over the child as a ward of the guardianship, as authorized by Section 366.4. |
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| 1336 | 1352 | | |
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| 1337 | 1353 | | (b) (1) If the court has dismissed dependency jurisdiction following the establishment of a legal guardianship, or no dependency jurisdiction attached because of the granting of a legal guardianship pursuant to Section 360, and the legal guardianship is subsequently revoked or otherwise terminated, the county department of social services or welfare department shall notify the juvenile court of this fact. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child. |
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| 1338 | 1354 | | |
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| 1339 | 1355 | | (2) Notwithstanding Section 1601 of the Probate Code, the proceedings to terminate a legal guardianship that has been granted pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26 shall be held either in the juvenile court that retains jurisdiction over the guardianship as authorized by Section 366.4 or the juvenile court in the county where the guardian and child currently reside, based on the best interests of the child, unless the termination is due to the emancipation or adoption of the child. The juvenile court having jurisdiction over the guardianship shall receive notice from the court in which the petition is filed within five calendar days of the filing. Prior to the hearing on a petition to terminate legal guardianship pursuant to this subdivision, the court shall order the county department of social services or welfare department having jurisdiction or jointly with the county department where the guardian and child currently reside to prepare a report, for the courts consideration, that shall include an evaluation of whether the child could safely remain in, or be returned to, the legal guardians home, without terminating the legal guardianship, if services were provided to the child or legal guardian. If applicable, the report shall also identify recommended family maintenance or reunification services to maintain the legal guardianship and set forth a plan for providing those services. If the petition to terminate legal guardianship is granted, either juvenile court may resume dependency jurisdiction over the child, and may order the county department of social services or welfare department to develop a new permanent plan, which shall be presented to the court within 60 days of the termination. If no dependency jurisdiction has attached, the social worker shall make any investigation the social worker deems necessary to determine whether the child may be within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, as provided in Section 328. |
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| 1340 | 1356 | | |
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| 1341 | 1357 | | (3) Unless the parental rights of the childs parent or parents have been terminated, they shall be notified that the legal guardianship has been revoked or terminated and shall be entitled to participate in the new permanency planning hearing. The court shall try to place the child in another permanent placement. At the hearing, the parents may be considered as custodians but the child shall not be returned to the parent or parents unless they prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that reunification is the best alternative for the child. The court may, if it is in the best interests of the child, order that reunification services again be provided to the parent or parents. |
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| 1342 | 1358 | | |
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| 1343 | 1359 | | (c) If, following the establishment of a legal guardianship, the county welfare department becomes aware of changed circumstances that indicate adoption or, for an Indian child, tribal customary adoption, may be an appropriate plan for the child, the department shall so notify the court. The court may vacate its previous order dismissing dependency jurisdiction over the child and order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26 to determine whether adoption or continued legal guardianship is the most appropriate plan for the child. The hearing shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the order. If the court orders that a hearing shall be held pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services if it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment under subdivision (b) of Section 366.22. |
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| 1344 | 1360 | | |
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| 1345 | 1361 | | (d) If the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent is in a placement other than the home of a legal guardian and jurisdiction has not been dismissed, the status of the child shall be reviewed at least every six months. The review of the status of a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption shall be conducted by the court. The review of the status of a child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent for whom the court has not ordered parental rights terminated and who has not been ordered placed for adoption may be conducted by the court or an appropriate local agency. The court shall conduct the review under the following circumstances: |
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| 1346 | 1362 | | |
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| 1347 | 1363 | | (1) Upon the request of the childs parents or legal guardians. |
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| 1348 | 1364 | | |
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| 1349 | 1365 | | (2) Upon the request of the child or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependent. |
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| 1350 | 1366 | | |
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| 1351 | 1367 | | (3) It has been 12 months since a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 or an order that the child remain in foster care pursuant to Section 366.21, 366.22, 366.25, 366.26, or subdivision (h). |
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| 1352 | 1368 | | |
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| 1353 | 1369 | | (4) It has been 12 months since a review was conducted by the court. |
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| 1354 | 1370 | | |
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| 1355 | 1371 | | The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made. |
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| 1356 | 1372 | | |
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| 1357 | 1373 | | (e) Except as provided in subdivision (g), at the review held every six months pursuant to subdivision (d), the reviewing body shall inquire about the progress being made to provide a permanent home for the child, shall consider the safety of the child, and shall determine all of the following: |
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| 1358 | 1374 | | |
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| 1359 | 1375 | | (1) The continuing necessity for, and appropriateness of, the placement. |
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| 1360 | 1376 | | |
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| 1361 | 1377 | | (2) Identification of individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to a child who is 10 years of age or older and has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer, and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The social worker shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer to identify individuals other than the childs siblings who are important to the child, and may ask any other child to provide that information, as appropriate. The social worker shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interests. |
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| 1362 | 1378 | | |
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| 1363 | 1379 | | (3) The continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the permanent plan for the child, including efforts to maintain relationships between a child who is 10 years of age or older and who has been in out-of-home placement for six months or longer and individuals who are important to the child and efforts to identify a prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange. |
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| 1364 | 1380 | | |
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| 1365 | 1381 | | (4) The extent of the agencys compliance with the child welfare services case plan in making reasonable efforts either to return the child to the safe home of the parent or to complete whatever steps are necessary to finalize the permanent placement of the child. If the reviewing body determines that a second period of reunification services is in the childs best interests, and that there is a significant likelihood of the childs return to a safe home due to changed circumstances of the parent, pursuant to subdivision (f), the specific reunification services required to effect the childs return to a safe home shall be described. |
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| 1366 | 1382 | | |
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| 1367 | 1383 | | (5) Whether there should be any limitation on the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child. That limitation shall be specifically addressed in the court order and may not exceed what is necessary to protect the child. If the court specifically limits the right of the parent or guardian to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child, the court shall at the same time appoint a responsible adult to make educational decisions or developmental services decisions for the child pursuant to Section 361. |
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| 1368 | 1384 | | |
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| 1369 | 1385 | | (6) The adequacy of services provided to the child. The court shall consider the progress in providing the information and documents to the child, as described in Section 391. The court shall also consider the need for, and progress in providing, the assistance and services described in Section 391. |
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| 1370 | 1386 | | |
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| 1371 | 1387 | | (7) The extent of progress the parents or legal guardians have made toward alleviating or mitigating the causes necessitating placement in foster care. |
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| 1372 | 1388 | | |
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| 1373 | 1389 | | (8) The likely date by which the child may be returned to, and safely maintained in, the home, placed for adoption, legal guardianship, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or, if the child is 16 years of age or older, and no other permanent plan is appropriate at the time of the hearing, in another planned permanent living arrangement. |
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| 1374 | 1390 | | |
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| 1375 | 1391 | | (9) Whether the child has any siblings under the courts jurisdiction, and, if any siblings exist, all of the following: |
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| 1376 | 1392 | | |
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| 1377 | 1393 | | (A) The nature of the relationship between the child and their siblings. |
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| 1378 | 1394 | | |
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| 1379 | 1395 | | (B) The appropriateness of developing or maintaining the sibling relationships pursuant to Section 16002. At the first review conducted for a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, the court shall inquire into the status of the development of a voluntary postadoption sibling contact agreement pursuant to subdivision (e) of Section 16002. |
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| 1380 | 1396 | | |
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| 1381 | 1397 | | (C) If the siblings are not placed together in the same home, why the siblings are not placed together and what efforts are being made to place the siblings together, or why those efforts are not appropriate. |
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| 1382 | 1398 | | |
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| 1383 | 1399 | | (D) If the siblings are not placed together, all of the following: |
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| 1384 | 1400 | | |
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| 1385 | 1401 | | (i) The frequency and nature of the visits between the siblings. |
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| 1386 | 1402 | | |
|---|
| 1387 | 1403 | | (ii) If there are visits between the siblings, whether the visits are supervised or unsupervised. If the visits are supervised, a discussion of the reasons why the visits are supervised, and what needs to be accomplished in order for the visits to be unsupervised. |
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| 1388 | 1404 | | |
|---|
| 1389 | 1405 | | (iii) If there are visits between the siblings, a description of the location and length of the visits. |
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| 1390 | 1406 | | |
|---|
| 1391 | 1407 | | (iv) Any plan to increase visitation between the siblings. |
|---|
| 1392 | 1408 | | |
|---|
| 1393 | 1409 | | (E) The impact of the sibling relationships on the childs placement and planning for legal permanence. |
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| 1394 | 1410 | | |
|---|
| 1395 | 1411 | | The factors the court may consider as indicators of the nature of the childs sibling relationships include, but are not limited to, whether the siblings were raised together in the same home, whether the siblings have shared significant common experiences or have existing close and strong bonds, whether either sibling expresses a desire to visit or live with their sibling, as applicable, and whether ongoing contact is in the childs best emotional interests. |
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| 1396 | 1412 | | |
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| 1397 | 1413 | | (10) For a child who is 14 years of age or older, and, effective January 1, 2012, for a nonminor dependent, the services needed to assist the child or nonminor dependent to make the transition from foster care to successful adulthood. |
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| 1398 | 1414 | | |
|---|
| 1399 | 1415 | | The reviewing body shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made. |
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| 1400 | 1416 | | |
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| 1401 | 1417 | | Each licensed foster family agency shall submit reports for each child in its care, custody, and control to the court concerning the continuing appropriateness and extent of compliance with the childs permanent plan, the extent of compliance with the case plan, and the type and adequacy of services provided to the child. |
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| 1402 | 1418 | | |
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| 1403 | 1419 | | (f) Unless their parental rights have been permanently terminated, the parent or parents of the child are entitled to receive notice of, and participate in, those hearings. It shall be presumed that continued care is in the best interests of the child, unless the parent or parents prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that further efforts at reunification are the best alternative for the child. In those cases, the court may order that further reunification services to return the child to a safe home environment be provided to the parent or parents up to a period of six months, and family maintenance services, as needed for an additional six months in order to return the child to a safe home environment. On and after January 1, 2012, this subdivision shall not apply to the parents of a nonminor dependent. |
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| 1404 | 1420 | | |
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| 1405 | 1421 | | (g) At the review conducted by the court and held at least every six months, regarding a child for whom the court has ordered parental rights terminated and who has been ordered placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child for whom parental rights are not being terminated and a tribal customary adoption is being considered, the county welfare department shall prepare and present to the court a report describing the following: |
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| 1406 | 1422 | | |
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| 1407 | 1423 | | (1) The childs present placement. |
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| 1408 | 1424 | | |
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| 1409 | 1425 | | (2) The childs current physical, mental, emotional, and educational status. |
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| 1410 | 1426 | | |
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| 1411 | 1427 | | (3) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or guardian, identification of individuals, other than the childs siblings, who are important to the child and actions necessary to maintain the childs relationship with those individuals, provided that those relationships are in the best interest of the child. The agency shall ask every child who is 10 years of age or older to identify any individuals who are important to the child, consistent with the childs best interest, and may ask any child who is younger than 10 years of age to provide that information as appropriate. The agency shall make efforts to identify other individuals who are important to the child. |
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| 1412 | 1428 | | |
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| 1413 | 1429 | | (4) Whether the child has been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents. |
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| 1414 | 1430 | | |
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| 1415 | 1431 | | (5) Whether an adoptive placement agreement has been signed and filed. |
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| 1416 | 1432 | | |
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| 1417 | 1433 | | (6) If the child has not been placed with a prospective adoptive parent or parents, the efforts made to identify an appropriate prospective adoptive parent or legal guardian, including, but not limited to, child-specific recruitment efforts and listing on an adoption exchange. |
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| 1418 | 1434 | | |
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| 1419 | 1435 | | (7) Whether the final adoption order should include provisions for postadoptive sibling contact pursuant to Section 366.29. |
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| 1420 | 1436 | | |
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| 1421 | 1437 | | (8) The progress of the search for an adoptive placement if one has not been identified. |
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| 1422 | 1438 | | |
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| 1423 | 1439 | | (9) Any impediments to the adoption or the adoptive placement. |
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| 1424 | 1440 | | |
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| 1425 | 1441 | | (10) The anticipated date by which the child will be adopted or placed in an adoptive home. |
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| 1426 | 1442 | | |
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| 1427 | 1443 | | (11) The anticipated date by which an adoptive placement agreement will be signed. |
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| 1428 | 1444 | | |
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| 1429 | 1445 | | (12) Recommendations for court orders that will assist in the placement of the child for adoption or in the finalization of the adoption. |
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| 1430 | 1446 | | |
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| 1431 | 1447 | | The court shall determine whether or not reasonable efforts to make and finalize a permanent placement for the child have been made. |
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| 1432 | 1448 | | |
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| 1433 | 1449 | | The court shall make appropriate orders to protect the stability of the child and to facilitate and expedite the permanent placement and adoption of the child. |
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| 1434 | 1450 | | |
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| 1435 | 1451 | | (h) (1) At the review held pursuant to subdivision (d) for a child in foster care, the court shall consider all permanency planning options for the child including whether the child should be returned to the home of the parent, placed for adoption, or, for an Indian child, in consultation with the childs tribe, placed for tribal customary adoption, or appointed a legal guardian, placed with a fit and willing relative, or, if compelling reasons exist for finding that none of the foregoing options are in the best interest of the child and the child is 16 years of age or older, whether the child should be placed in another planned permanent living arrangement. The court shall order that a hearing be held pursuant to Section 366.26, unless it determines by clear and convincing evidence that there is a compelling reason for determining that a hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 is not in the best interest of the child because the child is being returned to the home of the parent, the child is not a proper subject for adoption, or no one is willing to accept legal guardianship as of the hearing date. If the county adoption agency, or the department when it is acting as an adoption agency, has determined it is unlikely that the child will be adopted or one of the conditions described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c) of Section 366.26 applies, that fact shall constitute a compelling reason for purposes of this subdivision. Only upon that determination may the court order that the child remain in foster care, without holding a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26. The court shall make factual findings identifying any barriers to achieving the permanent plan as of the hearing date. On and after January 1, 2012, the nonminor dependents legal status as an adult is in and of itself a compelling reason not to hold a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26. |
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| 1436 | 1452 | | |
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| 1437 | 1453 | | (2) When the child is 16 years of age or older and in another planned permanent living arrangement, the court shall do all of the following: |
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| 1438 | 1454 | | |
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| 1439 | 1455 | | (A) Ask the child about their desired permanency outcome. |
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| 1440 | 1456 | | |
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| 1441 | 1457 | | (B) Make a judicial determination explaining why, as of the hearing date, another planned permanent living arrangement is the best permanency plan for the child. |
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| 1442 | 1458 | | |
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| 1443 | 1459 | | (C) State for the record the compelling reason or reasons why it continues not to be in the best interest of the child to return home, be placed for adoption, be placed for tribal customary adoption in the case of an Indian child, be placed with a legal guardian, or be placed with a fit and willing relative. |
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| 1444 | 1460 | | |
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| 1445 | 1461 | | (3) When the child is 16 years of age or older and is in another planned permanent living arrangement, the social study prepared for the hearing shall include a description of all of the following: |
|---|
| 1446 | 1462 | | |
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| 1447 | 1463 | | (A) The intensive and ongoing efforts to return the child to the home of the parent, place the child for adoption, or establish a legal guardianship, as appropriate. |
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| 1448 | 1464 | | |
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| 1449 | 1465 | | (B) The steps taken to do both of the following: |
|---|
| 1450 | 1466 | | |
|---|
| 1451 | 1467 | | (i) Ensure that the childs care provider is following the reasonable and prudent parent standard. |
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| 1452 | 1468 | | |
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| 1453 | 1469 | | (ii) Determine whether the child has regular, ongoing opportunities to engage in age or developmentally appropriate activities, including consulting with the child about opportunities for the child to participate in those activities. |
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| 1454 | 1470 | | |
|---|
| 1455 | 1471 | | (4) When the child is under 16 years of age and has a permanent plan of return home, adoption, legal guardianship, or placement with a fit and willing relative, the social study shall include a description of any barriers to achieving the permanent plan and the efforts made by the agency to address those barriers. |
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| 1456 | 1472 | | |
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| 1457 | 1473 | | (i) If, as authorized by subdivision (h), the court orders a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26, the court shall direct the agency supervising the child and the county adoption agency, or the State Department of Social Services when it is acting as an adoption agency, to prepare an assessment as provided for in subdivision (i) of Section 366.21 or subdivision (b) of Section 366.22. A hearing held pursuant to Section 366.26 shall be held no later than 120 days from the date of the 12-month review at which it is ordered, and at that hearing the court shall determine whether adoption, tribal customary adoption, legal guardianship, placement with a fit and willing relative, or, for a child 16 years of age or older, another planned permanent living arrangement is the most appropriate plan for the child. On and after January 1, 2012, a hearing pursuant to Section 366.26 shall not be ordered if the child is a nonminor dependent, unless the nonminor dependent is an Indian child and tribal customary adoption is recommended as the permanent plan. The court may order that a nonminor dependent who otherwise is eligible pursuant to Section 11403 remain in a planned, permanent living arrangement. At the request of the nonminor dependent who has an established relationship with an adult determined to be the nonminor dependents permanent connection, the court may order adoption of the nonminor dependent pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 366.31. |
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| 1458 | 1474 | | |
|---|
| 1459 | 1475 | | (j) The reviews conducted pursuant to subdivision (a) or (d) may be conducted earlier than every six months if the court determines that an earlier review is in the best interests of the child or as court rules prescribe. |
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| 1460 | 1476 | | |
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| 1461 | 1477 | | SEC. 19. Section 727.05 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, immediately following Section 727, to read:727.05. (a) Notwithstanding paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 727, the probation agency may make an emergency placement of a minor ordered into its care, custody, and control with a relative or nonrelative extended family member.(b) Prior to making the emergency placement, the probation agency shall do all of the following:(1) Conduct an in-home inspection to assess the safety of the home and the ability of the relative or nonrelative extended family member to care for the minors needs.(2) Ensure that a state-level criminal records check is conducted by an appropriate government agency through the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) pursuant to Section 16504.5 for all of the following:(A) Any person over 18 years of age living in the home of the relative or nonrelative extended family member who seeks emergency placement of the minor, excluding any person who is a nonminor dependent, as defined in subdivision (v) of Section 11400.(B) At the discretion of the probation agency, any person over 18 years of age known to the agency to be regularly present in the home, other than any professional providing professional services to the minor.(C) At the discretion of the agency, any person over 14 years of age living in the home who the agency believes may have a criminal record, excluding any child who is under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court.(3) Conduct a check of allegations of prior child abuse or neglect concerning the relative or nonrelative extended family member and other adults in the home.(c) (1) If the CLETS information that is obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has no criminal record, the probation agency may place the minor in the home on an emergency basis.(2) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (D) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home unless a criminal records exemption has been granted using the exemption criteria specified in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) Notwithstanding paragraph (2), a minor may be placed on an emergency basis if the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense not described in subclause (II) of clause (i) of subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pending a criminal records exemption decision based on live scan fingerprint results if all of the following conditions are met:(A) The conviction does not involve an offense against a child.(B) The chief probation officer, or their designee, determines that the placement is in the best interests of the minor.(C) No party to the case objects to the placement.(4) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been arrested for any offense described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed on an emergency basis in the home until the investigation required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code has been completed and the chief probation officer, or their designee, and the court have considered the investigation results when determining whether the placement is in the best interests of the child.(5) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home on an emergency basis.(d) If the relative or nonrelative extended family member has not submitted an application for approval as a resource family at the time of the emergency placement, the probation agency shall require the relative or nonrelative extended family member to submit the application and initiate the home environment assessment no later than five business days after the emergency placement.(e) Unless the fingerprint clearance check has already been initiated, the probation agency shall ensure that, within five days of the emergency placement, a fingerprint clearance check of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and any other person whose criminal record was obtained pursuant to this section is initiated through the Department of Justice to ensure the accuracy of the criminal records check conducted through the CLETS and to ensure criminal record clearance of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and all adults in the home pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 and any associated written directives or regulations.(f) An identification card from a foreign consulate or foreign passport shall be considered a valid form of identification for conducting a criminal records check pursuant to this section. |
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| 1462 | 1478 | | |
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| 1463 | 1479 | | SEC. 19. Section 727.05 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, immediately following Section 727, to read: |
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| 1464 | 1480 | | |
|---|
| 1465 | 1481 | | ### SEC. 19. |
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| 1466 | 1482 | | |
|---|
| 1467 | 1483 | | 727.05. (a) Notwithstanding paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 727, the probation agency may make an emergency placement of a minor ordered into its care, custody, and control with a relative or nonrelative extended family member.(b) Prior to making the emergency placement, the probation agency shall do all of the following:(1) Conduct an in-home inspection to assess the safety of the home and the ability of the relative or nonrelative extended family member to care for the minors needs.(2) Ensure that a state-level criminal records check is conducted by an appropriate government agency through the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) pursuant to Section 16504.5 for all of the following:(A) Any person over 18 years of age living in the home of the relative or nonrelative extended family member who seeks emergency placement of the minor, excluding any person who is a nonminor dependent, as defined in subdivision (v) of Section 11400.(B) At the discretion of the probation agency, any person over 18 years of age known to the agency to be regularly present in the home, other than any professional providing professional services to the minor.(C) At the discretion of the agency, any person over 14 years of age living in the home who the agency believes may have a criminal record, excluding any child who is under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court.(3) Conduct a check of allegations of prior child abuse or neglect concerning the relative or nonrelative extended family member and other adults in the home.(c) (1) If the CLETS information that is obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has no criminal record, the probation agency may place the minor in the home on an emergency basis.(2) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (D) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home unless a criminal records exemption has been granted using the exemption criteria specified in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) Notwithstanding paragraph (2), a minor may be placed on an emergency basis if the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense not described in subclause (II) of clause (i) of subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pending a criminal records exemption decision based on live scan fingerprint results if all of the following conditions are met:(A) The conviction does not involve an offense against a child.(B) The chief probation officer, or their designee, determines that the placement is in the best interests of the minor.(C) No party to the case objects to the placement.(4) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been arrested for any offense described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed on an emergency basis in the home until the investigation required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code has been completed and the chief probation officer, or their designee, and the court have considered the investigation results when determining whether the placement is in the best interests of the child.(5) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home on an emergency basis.(d) If the relative or nonrelative extended family member has not submitted an application for approval as a resource family at the time of the emergency placement, the probation agency shall require the relative or nonrelative extended family member to submit the application and initiate the home environment assessment no later than five business days after the emergency placement.(e) Unless the fingerprint clearance check has already been initiated, the probation agency shall ensure that, within five days of the emergency placement, a fingerprint clearance check of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and any other person whose criminal record was obtained pursuant to this section is initiated through the Department of Justice to ensure the accuracy of the criminal records check conducted through the CLETS and to ensure criminal record clearance of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and all adults in the home pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 and any associated written directives or regulations.(f) An identification card from a foreign consulate or foreign passport shall be considered a valid form of identification for conducting a criminal records check pursuant to this section. |
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| 1468 | 1484 | | |
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| 1469 | 1485 | | 727.05. (a) Notwithstanding paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 727, the probation agency may make an emergency placement of a minor ordered into its care, custody, and control with a relative or nonrelative extended family member.(b) Prior to making the emergency placement, the probation agency shall do all of the following:(1) Conduct an in-home inspection to assess the safety of the home and the ability of the relative or nonrelative extended family member to care for the minors needs.(2) Ensure that a state-level criminal records check is conducted by an appropriate government agency through the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) pursuant to Section 16504.5 for all of the following:(A) Any person over 18 years of age living in the home of the relative or nonrelative extended family member who seeks emergency placement of the minor, excluding any person who is a nonminor dependent, as defined in subdivision (v) of Section 11400.(B) At the discretion of the probation agency, any person over 18 years of age known to the agency to be regularly present in the home, other than any professional providing professional services to the minor.(C) At the discretion of the agency, any person over 14 years of age living in the home who the agency believes may have a criminal record, excluding any child who is under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court.(3) Conduct a check of allegations of prior child abuse or neglect concerning the relative or nonrelative extended family member and other adults in the home.(c) (1) If the CLETS information that is obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has no criminal record, the probation agency may place the minor in the home on an emergency basis.(2) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (D) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home unless a criminal records exemption has been granted using the exemption criteria specified in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) Notwithstanding paragraph (2), a minor may be placed on an emergency basis if the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense not described in subclause (II) of clause (i) of subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pending a criminal records exemption decision based on live scan fingerprint results if all of the following conditions are met:(A) The conviction does not involve an offense against a child.(B) The chief probation officer, or their designee, determines that the placement is in the best interests of the minor.(C) No party to the case objects to the placement.(4) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been arrested for any offense described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed on an emergency basis in the home until the investigation required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code has been completed and the chief probation officer, or their designee, and the court have considered the investigation results when determining whether the placement is in the best interests of the child.(5) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home on an emergency basis.(d) If the relative or nonrelative extended family member has not submitted an application for approval as a resource family at the time of the emergency placement, the probation agency shall require the relative or nonrelative extended family member to submit the application and initiate the home environment assessment no later than five business days after the emergency placement.(e) Unless the fingerprint clearance check has already been initiated, the probation agency shall ensure that, within five days of the emergency placement, a fingerprint clearance check of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and any other person whose criminal record was obtained pursuant to this section is initiated through the Department of Justice to ensure the accuracy of the criminal records check conducted through the CLETS and to ensure criminal record clearance of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and all adults in the home pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 and any associated written directives or regulations.(f) An identification card from a foreign consulate or foreign passport shall be considered a valid form of identification for conducting a criminal records check pursuant to this section. |
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| 1470 | 1486 | | |
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| 1471 | 1487 | | 727.05. (a) Notwithstanding paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 727, the probation agency may make an emergency placement of a minor ordered into its care, custody, and control with a relative or nonrelative extended family member.(b) Prior to making the emergency placement, the probation agency shall do all of the following:(1) Conduct an in-home inspection to assess the safety of the home and the ability of the relative or nonrelative extended family member to care for the minors needs.(2) Ensure that a state-level criminal records check is conducted by an appropriate government agency through the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) pursuant to Section 16504.5 for all of the following:(A) Any person over 18 years of age living in the home of the relative or nonrelative extended family member who seeks emergency placement of the minor, excluding any person who is a nonminor dependent, as defined in subdivision (v) of Section 11400.(B) At the discretion of the probation agency, any person over 18 years of age known to the agency to be regularly present in the home, other than any professional providing professional services to the minor.(C) At the discretion of the agency, any person over 14 years of age living in the home who the agency believes may have a criminal record, excluding any child who is under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court.(3) Conduct a check of allegations of prior child abuse or neglect concerning the relative or nonrelative extended family member and other adults in the home.(c) (1) If the CLETS information that is obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has no criminal record, the probation agency may place the minor in the home on an emergency basis.(2) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (D) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home unless a criminal records exemption has been granted using the exemption criteria specified in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) Notwithstanding paragraph (2), a minor may be placed on an emergency basis if the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense not described in subclause (II) of clause (i) of subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pending a criminal records exemption decision based on live scan fingerprint results if all of the following conditions are met:(A) The conviction does not involve an offense against a child.(B) The chief probation officer, or their designee, determines that the placement is in the best interests of the minor.(C) No party to the case objects to the placement.(4) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been arrested for any offense described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed on an emergency basis in the home until the investigation required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code has been completed and the chief probation officer, or their designee, and the court have considered the investigation results when determining whether the placement is in the best interests of the child.(5) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home on an emergency basis.(d) If the relative or nonrelative extended family member has not submitted an application for approval as a resource family at the time of the emergency placement, the probation agency shall require the relative or nonrelative extended family member to submit the application and initiate the home environment assessment no later than five business days after the emergency placement.(e) Unless the fingerprint clearance check has already been initiated, the probation agency shall ensure that, within five days of the emergency placement, a fingerprint clearance check of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and any other person whose criminal record was obtained pursuant to this section is initiated through the Department of Justice to ensure the accuracy of the criminal records check conducted through the CLETS and to ensure criminal record clearance of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and all adults in the home pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 and any associated written directives or regulations.(f) An identification card from a foreign consulate or foreign passport shall be considered a valid form of identification for conducting a criminal records check pursuant to this section. |
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| 1472 | 1488 | | |
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| 1473 | 1489 | | |
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| 1474 | 1490 | | |
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| 1475 | 1491 | | 727.05. (a) Notwithstanding paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 727, the probation agency may make an emergency placement of a minor ordered into its care, custody, and control with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. |
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| 1476 | 1492 | | |
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| 1477 | 1493 | | (b) Prior to making the emergency placement, the probation agency shall do all of the following: |
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| 1478 | 1494 | | |
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| 1479 | 1495 | | (1) Conduct an in-home inspection to assess the safety of the home and the ability of the relative or nonrelative extended family member to care for the minors needs. |
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| 1480 | 1496 | | |
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| 1481 | 1497 | | (2) Ensure that a state-level criminal records check is conducted by an appropriate government agency through the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) pursuant to Section 16504.5 for all of the following: |
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| 1482 | 1498 | | |
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| 1483 | 1499 | | (A) Any person over 18 years of age living in the home of the relative or nonrelative extended family member who seeks emergency placement of the minor, excluding any person who is a nonminor dependent, as defined in subdivision (v) of Section 11400. |
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| 1484 | 1500 | | |
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| 1485 | 1501 | | (B) At the discretion of the probation agency, any person over 18 years of age known to the agency to be regularly present in the home, other than any professional providing professional services to the minor. |
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| 1486 | 1502 | | |
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| 1487 | 1503 | | (C) At the discretion of the agency, any person over 14 years of age living in the home who the agency believes may have a criminal record, excluding any child who is under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court. |
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| 1488 | 1504 | | |
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| 1489 | 1505 | | (3) Conduct a check of allegations of prior child abuse or neglect concerning the relative or nonrelative extended family member and other adults in the home. |
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| 1490 | 1506 | | |
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| 1491 | 1507 | | (c) (1) If the CLETS information that is obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has no criminal record, the probation agency may place the minor in the home on an emergency basis. |
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| 1492 | 1508 | | |
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| 1493 | 1509 | | (2) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that a person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (D) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home unless a criminal records exemption has been granted using the exemption criteria specified in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
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| 1494 | 1510 | | |
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| 1495 | 1511 | | (3) Notwithstanding paragraph (2), a minor may be placed on an emergency basis if the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense not described in subclause (II) of clause (i) of subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pending a criminal records exemption decision based on live scan fingerprint results if all of the following conditions are met: |
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| 1496 | 1512 | | |
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| 1497 | 1513 | | (A) The conviction does not involve an offense against a child. |
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| 1498 | 1514 | | |
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| 1499 | 1515 | | (B) The chief probation officer, or their designee, determines that the placement is in the best interests of the minor. |
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| 1500 | 1516 | | |
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| 1501 | 1517 | | (C) No party to the case objects to the placement. |
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| 1502 | 1518 | | |
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| 1503 | 1519 | | (4) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been arrested for any offense described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed on an emergency basis in the home until the investigation required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code has been completed and the chief probation officer, or their designee, and the court have considered the investigation results when determining whether the placement is in the best interests of the child. |
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| 1504 | 1520 | | |
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| 1505 | 1521 | | (5) If the CLETS information obtained pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the minor shall not be placed in the home on an emergency basis. |
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| 1506 | 1522 | | |
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| 1507 | 1523 | | (d) If the relative or nonrelative extended family member has not submitted an application for approval as a resource family at the time of the emergency placement, the probation agency shall require the relative or nonrelative extended family member to submit the application and initiate the home environment assessment no later than five business days after the emergency placement. |
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| 1508 | 1524 | | |
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| 1509 | 1525 | | (e) Unless the fingerprint clearance check has already been initiated, the probation agency shall ensure that, within five days of the emergency placement, a fingerprint clearance check of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and any other person whose criminal record was obtained pursuant to this section is initiated through the Department of Justice to ensure the accuracy of the criminal records check conducted through the CLETS and to ensure criminal record clearance of the relative or nonrelative extended family member and all adults in the home pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 16519.5 and any associated written directives or regulations. |
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| 1510 | 1526 | | |
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| 1511 | 1527 | | (f) An identification card from a foreign consulate or foreign passport shall be considered a valid form of identification for conducting a criminal records check pursuant to this section. |
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| 1512 | 1528 | | |
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| 1513 | 1529 | | SEC. 20. Section 11405 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11405. (a) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), AFDC-FC benefits shall be paid to an otherwise eligible child living with a nonrelated legal guardian, provided that the legal guardian cooperates with the county welfare department in all of the following:(1) Developing a written assessment of the childs needs.(2) Updating the assessment no less frequently than once every six months.(3) Carrying out the case plan developed by the county.(b) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), when AFDC-FC is applied for on behalf of a child living with a nonrelated legal guardian the county welfare department shall do all of the following:(1) Develop a written assessment of the childs needs.(2) Update those assessments no less frequently than once every six months.(3) Develop a case plan that specifies how the problems identified in the assessment are to be addressed.(4) Make visits to the child as often as appropriate, but in no event less often than once every six months.(c) Where the child is a parent and has a child living with them in the same eligible facility, the assessment required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) shall include the needs of their child.(d) Nonrelated legal guardians of eligible children who are in receipt of AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be exempt from the requirement to register with the Statewide Registry of Private Professional Guardians pursuant to former Sections 2850 and 2851 of the Probate Code.(e) (1) On and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor youth whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in juvenile court pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, and whose dependency was dismissed, shall remain eligible for AFDC-FC benefits until the youth attains 19 years of age, effective January 1, 2013, until the youth attains 20 years of age, and effective January 1, 2014, until the youth attains 21 years of age, provided that the youth enters into a mutual agreement with the agency responsible for their guardianship, and the youth is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403.(2) A nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400, shall be eligible for benefits under this section until the youth attains 21 years of age if all of the following conditions are met:(A) The nonminor former dependent or ward attained 18 years of age while in receipt of Kin-GAP benefits pursuant to Article 4.7 (commencing with Section 11385).(B) The nonminors relationship to the kinship guardian is defined in paragraph (2), (3), or (4) of subdivision (c) of Section 11391.(C) The nonminor was under 16 years of age at the time the Kin-GAP negotiated agreement payments commenced.(D) The guardian continues to be responsible for the support of the nonminor.(E) The nonminor otherwise is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403.(f) On or after January 1, 2012, a child whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in probate court pursuant Article 2 (commencing with Section 1510) of Chapter 1 of Part 2 of Division 4 of the Probate Code, who is attending high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or who is in the process of pursuing a high school equivalency certificate before their 18th birthday may continue to receive aid following their 18th birthday as long as the child continues to reside in the guardians home, remains otherwise eligible for AFDC-FC benefits and continues to attend high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or continues to pursue a high school equivalency certificate, and the child may reasonably be expected to complete the educational or training program or to receive a high school equivalency certificate, before their 19th birthday. Aid shall be provided to an individual pursuant to this section provided that both the individual and the agency responsible for the foster care placement have signed a mutual agreement, if the individual is capable of making an informed agreement, documenting the continued need for out-of-home placement.(g) (1) For cases in which a guardianship was established on or before June 30, 2011, or the date specified in a final order, for which the time for appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association, et al. v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. No. C 07-05086 WHA), whichever is earlier, the AFDC-FC payment described in this section shall be the foster family home rate structure in effect before the effective date specified in the order described in this paragraph.(2) For cases in which guardianship has been established on or after July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the order described in paragraph (1), whichever is earlier, and through December 31, 2016, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be the basic foster family home rate structure effective and available as of December 31, 2016.(3) For cases in which guardianship has been established by the juvenile court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the home-based family care rate structure developed pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 11461 and Section 11463.(4) For cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the basic level rate of the home-based family care rate structure.(5) Beginning with the 201112 fiscal year, the AFDC-FC payments identified in this subdivision shall be adjusted annually by the percentage change in the California Necessities Index rate as set forth in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461.(h) In addition to the AFDC-FC rate paid, all of the following also shall be paid:(1) A specialized care increment, if applicable, as set forth in subdivision (e) of Section 11461.(2) A clothing allowance, as set forth in subdivision (f) of Section 11461.(3) For a child eligible for an AFDC-FC payment who is a teen parent, the rate shall include the two-hundred-dollar ($200) monthly payment made to the relative caregiver in a whole family foster home pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (d) of Section 11465. |
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| 1514 | 1530 | | |
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| 1515 | 1531 | | SEC. 20. Section 11405 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read: |
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| 1516 | 1532 | | |
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| 1517 | 1533 | | ### SEC. 20. |
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| 1518 | 1534 | | |
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| 1519 | 1535 | | 11405. (a) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), AFDC-FC benefits shall be paid to an otherwise eligible child living with a nonrelated legal guardian, provided that the legal guardian cooperates with the county welfare department in all of the following:(1) Developing a written assessment of the childs needs.(2) Updating the assessment no less frequently than once every six months.(3) Carrying out the case plan developed by the county.(b) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), when AFDC-FC is applied for on behalf of a child living with a nonrelated legal guardian the county welfare department shall do all of the following:(1) Develop a written assessment of the childs needs.(2) Update those assessments no less frequently than once every six months.(3) Develop a case plan that specifies how the problems identified in the assessment are to be addressed.(4) Make visits to the child as often as appropriate, but in no event less often than once every six months.(c) Where the child is a parent and has a child living with them in the same eligible facility, the assessment required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) shall include the needs of their child.(d) Nonrelated legal guardians of eligible children who are in receipt of AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be exempt from the requirement to register with the Statewide Registry of Private Professional Guardians pursuant to former Sections 2850 and 2851 of the Probate Code.(e) (1) On and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor youth whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in juvenile court pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, and whose dependency was dismissed, shall remain eligible for AFDC-FC benefits until the youth attains 19 years of age, effective January 1, 2013, until the youth attains 20 years of age, and effective January 1, 2014, until the youth attains 21 years of age, provided that the youth enters into a mutual agreement with the agency responsible for their guardianship, and the youth is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403.(2) A nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400, shall be eligible for benefits under this section until the youth attains 21 years of age if all of the following conditions are met:(A) The nonminor former dependent or ward attained 18 years of age while in receipt of Kin-GAP benefits pursuant to Article 4.7 (commencing with Section 11385).(B) The nonminors relationship to the kinship guardian is defined in paragraph (2), (3), or (4) of subdivision (c) of Section 11391.(C) The nonminor was under 16 years of age at the time the Kin-GAP negotiated agreement payments commenced.(D) The guardian continues to be responsible for the support of the nonminor.(E) The nonminor otherwise is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403.(f) On or after January 1, 2012, a child whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in probate court pursuant Article 2 (commencing with Section 1510) of Chapter 1 of Part 2 of Division 4 of the Probate Code, who is attending high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or who is in the process of pursuing a high school equivalency certificate before their 18th birthday may continue to receive aid following their 18th birthday as long as the child continues to reside in the guardians home, remains otherwise eligible for AFDC-FC benefits and continues to attend high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or continues to pursue a high school equivalency certificate, and the child may reasonably be expected to complete the educational or training program or to receive a high school equivalency certificate, before their 19th birthday. Aid shall be provided to an individual pursuant to this section provided that both the individual and the agency responsible for the foster care placement have signed a mutual agreement, if the individual is capable of making an informed agreement, documenting the continued need for out-of-home placement.(g) (1) For cases in which a guardianship was established on or before June 30, 2011, or the date specified in a final order, for which the time for appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association, et al. v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. No. C 07-05086 WHA), whichever is earlier, the AFDC-FC payment described in this section shall be the foster family home rate structure in effect before the effective date specified in the order described in this paragraph.(2) For cases in which guardianship has been established on or after July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the order described in paragraph (1), whichever is earlier, and through December 31, 2016, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be the basic foster family home rate structure effective and available as of December 31, 2016.(3) For cases in which guardianship has been established by the juvenile court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the home-based family care rate structure developed pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 11461 and Section 11463.(4) For cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the basic level rate of the home-based family care rate structure.(5) Beginning with the 201112 fiscal year, the AFDC-FC payments identified in this subdivision shall be adjusted annually by the percentage change in the California Necessities Index rate as set forth in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461.(h) In addition to the AFDC-FC rate paid, all of the following also shall be paid:(1) A specialized care increment, if applicable, as set forth in subdivision (e) of Section 11461.(2) A clothing allowance, as set forth in subdivision (f) of Section 11461.(3) For a child eligible for an AFDC-FC payment who is a teen parent, the rate shall include the two-hundred-dollar ($200) monthly payment made to the relative caregiver in a whole family foster home pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (d) of Section 11465. |
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| 1520 | 1536 | | |
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| 1521 | 1537 | | 11405. (a) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), AFDC-FC benefits shall be paid to an otherwise eligible child living with a nonrelated legal guardian, provided that the legal guardian cooperates with the county welfare department in all of the following:(1) Developing a written assessment of the childs needs.(2) Updating the assessment no less frequently than once every six months.(3) Carrying out the case plan developed by the county.(b) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), when AFDC-FC is applied for on behalf of a child living with a nonrelated legal guardian the county welfare department shall do all of the following:(1) Develop a written assessment of the childs needs.(2) Update those assessments no less frequently than once every six months.(3) Develop a case plan that specifies how the problems identified in the assessment are to be addressed.(4) Make visits to the child as often as appropriate, but in no event less often than once every six months.(c) Where the child is a parent and has a child living with them in the same eligible facility, the assessment required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) shall include the needs of their child.(d) Nonrelated legal guardians of eligible children who are in receipt of AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be exempt from the requirement to register with the Statewide Registry of Private Professional Guardians pursuant to former Sections 2850 and 2851 of the Probate Code.(e) (1) On and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor youth whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in juvenile court pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, and whose dependency was dismissed, shall remain eligible for AFDC-FC benefits until the youth attains 19 years of age, effective January 1, 2013, until the youth attains 20 years of age, and effective January 1, 2014, until the youth attains 21 years of age, provided that the youth enters into a mutual agreement with the agency responsible for their guardianship, and the youth is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403.(2) A nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400, shall be eligible for benefits under this section until the youth attains 21 years of age if all of the following conditions are met:(A) The nonminor former dependent or ward attained 18 years of age while in receipt of Kin-GAP benefits pursuant to Article 4.7 (commencing with Section 11385).(B) The nonminors relationship to the kinship guardian is defined in paragraph (2), (3), or (4) of subdivision (c) of Section 11391.(C) The nonminor was under 16 years of age at the time the Kin-GAP negotiated agreement payments commenced.(D) The guardian continues to be responsible for the support of the nonminor.(E) The nonminor otherwise is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403.(f) On or after January 1, 2012, a child whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in probate court pursuant Article 2 (commencing with Section 1510) of Chapter 1 of Part 2 of Division 4 of the Probate Code, who is attending high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or who is in the process of pursuing a high school equivalency certificate before their 18th birthday may continue to receive aid following their 18th birthday as long as the child continues to reside in the guardians home, remains otherwise eligible for AFDC-FC benefits and continues to attend high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or continues to pursue a high school equivalency certificate, and the child may reasonably be expected to complete the educational or training program or to receive a high school equivalency certificate, before their 19th birthday. Aid shall be provided to an individual pursuant to this section provided that both the individual and the agency responsible for the foster care placement have signed a mutual agreement, if the individual is capable of making an informed agreement, documenting the continued need for out-of-home placement.(g) (1) For cases in which a guardianship was established on or before June 30, 2011, or the date specified in a final order, for which the time for appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association, et al. v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. No. C 07-05086 WHA), whichever is earlier, the AFDC-FC payment described in this section shall be the foster family home rate structure in effect before the effective date specified in the order described in this paragraph.(2) For cases in which guardianship has been established on or after July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the order described in paragraph (1), whichever is earlier, and through December 31, 2016, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be the basic foster family home rate structure effective and available as of December 31, 2016.(3) For cases in which guardianship has been established by the juvenile court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the home-based family care rate structure developed pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 11461 and Section 11463.(4) For cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the basic level rate of the home-based family care rate structure.(5) Beginning with the 201112 fiscal year, the AFDC-FC payments identified in this subdivision shall be adjusted annually by the percentage change in the California Necessities Index rate as set forth in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461.(h) In addition to the AFDC-FC rate paid, all of the following also shall be paid:(1) A specialized care increment, if applicable, as set forth in subdivision (e) of Section 11461.(2) A clothing allowance, as set forth in subdivision (f) of Section 11461.(3) For a child eligible for an AFDC-FC payment who is a teen parent, the rate shall include the two-hundred-dollar ($200) monthly payment made to the relative caregiver in a whole family foster home pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (d) of Section 11465. |
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| 1522 | 1538 | | |
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| 1523 | 1539 | | 11405. (a) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), AFDC-FC benefits shall be paid to an otherwise eligible child living with a nonrelated legal guardian, provided that the legal guardian cooperates with the county welfare department in all of the following:(1) Developing a written assessment of the childs needs.(2) Updating the assessment no less frequently than once every six months.(3) Carrying out the case plan developed by the county.(b) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), when AFDC-FC is applied for on behalf of a child living with a nonrelated legal guardian the county welfare department shall do all of the following:(1) Develop a written assessment of the childs needs.(2) Update those assessments no less frequently than once every six months.(3) Develop a case plan that specifies how the problems identified in the assessment are to be addressed.(4) Make visits to the child as often as appropriate, but in no event less often than once every six months.(c) Where the child is a parent and has a child living with them in the same eligible facility, the assessment required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) shall include the needs of their child.(d) Nonrelated legal guardians of eligible children who are in receipt of AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be exempt from the requirement to register with the Statewide Registry of Private Professional Guardians pursuant to former Sections 2850 and 2851 of the Probate Code.(e) (1) On and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor youth whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in juvenile court pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, and whose dependency was dismissed, shall remain eligible for AFDC-FC benefits until the youth attains 19 years of age, effective January 1, 2013, until the youth attains 20 years of age, and effective January 1, 2014, until the youth attains 21 years of age, provided that the youth enters into a mutual agreement with the agency responsible for their guardianship, and the youth is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403.(2) A nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400, shall be eligible for benefits under this section until the youth attains 21 years of age if all of the following conditions are met:(A) The nonminor former dependent or ward attained 18 years of age while in receipt of Kin-GAP benefits pursuant to Article 4.7 (commencing with Section 11385).(B) The nonminors relationship to the kinship guardian is defined in paragraph (2), (3), or (4) of subdivision (c) of Section 11391.(C) The nonminor was under 16 years of age at the time the Kin-GAP negotiated agreement payments commenced.(D) The guardian continues to be responsible for the support of the nonminor.(E) The nonminor otherwise is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403.(f) On or after January 1, 2012, a child whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in probate court pursuant Article 2 (commencing with Section 1510) of Chapter 1 of Part 2 of Division 4 of the Probate Code, who is attending high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or who is in the process of pursuing a high school equivalency certificate before their 18th birthday may continue to receive aid following their 18th birthday as long as the child continues to reside in the guardians home, remains otherwise eligible for AFDC-FC benefits and continues to attend high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or continues to pursue a high school equivalency certificate, and the child may reasonably be expected to complete the educational or training program or to receive a high school equivalency certificate, before their 19th birthday. Aid shall be provided to an individual pursuant to this section provided that both the individual and the agency responsible for the foster care placement have signed a mutual agreement, if the individual is capable of making an informed agreement, documenting the continued need for out-of-home placement.(g) (1) For cases in which a guardianship was established on or before June 30, 2011, or the date specified in a final order, for which the time for appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association, et al. v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. No. C 07-05086 WHA), whichever is earlier, the AFDC-FC payment described in this section shall be the foster family home rate structure in effect before the effective date specified in the order described in this paragraph.(2) For cases in which guardianship has been established on or after July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the order described in paragraph (1), whichever is earlier, and through December 31, 2016, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be the basic foster family home rate structure effective and available as of December 31, 2016.(3) For cases in which guardianship has been established by the juvenile court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the home-based family care rate structure developed pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 11461 and Section 11463.(4) For cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the basic level rate of the home-based family care rate structure.(5) Beginning with the 201112 fiscal year, the AFDC-FC payments identified in this subdivision shall be adjusted annually by the percentage change in the California Necessities Index rate as set forth in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461.(h) In addition to the AFDC-FC rate paid, all of the following also shall be paid:(1) A specialized care increment, if applicable, as set forth in subdivision (e) of Section 11461.(2) A clothing allowance, as set forth in subdivision (f) of Section 11461.(3) For a child eligible for an AFDC-FC payment who is a teen parent, the rate shall include the two-hundred-dollar ($200) monthly payment made to the relative caregiver in a whole family foster home pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (d) of Section 11465. |
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| 1524 | 1540 | | |
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| 1525 | 1541 | | |
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| 1526 | 1542 | | |
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| 1527 | 1543 | | 11405. (a) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), AFDC-FC benefits shall be paid to an otherwise eligible child living with a nonrelated legal guardian, provided that the legal guardian cooperates with the county welfare department in all of the following: |
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| 1528 | 1544 | | |
|---|
| 1529 | 1545 | | (1) Developing a written assessment of the childs needs. |
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| 1530 | 1546 | | |
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| 1531 | 1547 | | (2) Updating the assessment no less frequently than once every six months. |
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| 1532 | 1548 | | |
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| 1533 | 1549 | | (3) Carrying out the case plan developed by the county. |
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| 1534 | 1550 | | |
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| 1535 | 1551 | | (b) Except for nonminors described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), when AFDC-FC is applied for on behalf of a child living with a nonrelated legal guardian the county welfare department shall do all of the following: |
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| 1536 | 1552 | | |
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| 1537 | 1553 | | (1) Develop a written assessment of the childs needs. |
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| 1538 | 1554 | | |
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| 1539 | 1555 | | (2) Update those assessments no less frequently than once every six months. |
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| 1540 | 1556 | | |
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| 1541 | 1557 | | (3) Develop a case plan that specifies how the problems identified in the assessment are to be addressed. |
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| 1542 | 1558 | | |
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| 1543 | 1559 | | (4) Make visits to the child as often as appropriate, but in no event less often than once every six months. |
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| 1544 | 1560 | | |
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| 1545 | 1561 | | (c) Where the child is a parent and has a child living with them in the same eligible facility, the assessment required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) shall include the needs of their child. |
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| 1546 | 1562 | | |
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| 1547 | 1563 | | (d) Nonrelated legal guardians of eligible children who are in receipt of AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be exempt from the requirement to register with the Statewide Registry of Private Professional Guardians pursuant to former Sections 2850 and 2851 of the Probate Code. |
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| 1548 | 1564 | | |
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| 1549 | 1565 | | (e) (1) On and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor youth whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in juvenile court pursuant to Section 360 or 366.26, and whose dependency was dismissed, shall remain eligible for AFDC-FC benefits until the youth attains 19 years of age, effective January 1, 2013, until the youth attains 20 years of age, and effective January 1, 2014, until the youth attains 21 years of age, provided that the youth enters into a mutual agreement with the agency responsible for their guardianship, and the youth is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403. |
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| 1550 | 1566 | | |
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| 1551 | 1567 | | (2) A nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400, shall be eligible for benefits under this section until the youth attains 21 years of age if all of the following conditions are met: |
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| 1552 | 1568 | | |
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| 1553 | 1569 | | (A) The nonminor former dependent or ward attained 18 years of age while in receipt of Kin-GAP benefits pursuant to Article 4.7 (commencing with Section 11385). |
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| 1554 | 1570 | | |
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| 1555 | 1571 | | (B) The nonminors relationship to the kinship guardian is defined in paragraph (2), (3), or (4) of subdivision (c) of Section 11391. |
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| 1556 | 1572 | | |
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| 1557 | 1573 | | (C) The nonminor was under 16 years of age at the time the Kin-GAP negotiated agreement payments commenced. |
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| 1558 | 1574 | | |
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| 1559 | 1575 | | (D) The guardian continues to be responsible for the support of the nonminor. |
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| 1560 | 1576 | | |
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| 1561 | 1577 | | (E) The nonminor otherwise is meeting the conditions of eligibility, as described in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 11403. |
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| 1562 | 1578 | | |
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| 1563 | 1579 | | (f) On or after January 1, 2012, a child whose nonrelated guardianship was ordered in probate court pursuant Article 2 (commencing with Section 1510) of Chapter 1 of Part 2 of Division 4 of the Probate Code, who is attending high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or who is in the process of pursuing a high school equivalency certificate before their 18th birthday may continue to receive aid following their 18th birthday as long as the child continues to reside in the guardians home, remains otherwise eligible for AFDC-FC benefits and continues to attend high school or the equivalent level of vocational or technical training on a full-time basis, or continues to pursue a high school equivalency certificate, and the child may reasonably be expected to complete the educational or training program or to receive a high school equivalency certificate, before their 19th birthday. Aid shall be provided to an individual pursuant to this section provided that both the individual and the agency responsible for the foster care placement have signed a mutual agreement, if the individual is capable of making an informed agreement, documenting the continued need for out-of-home placement. |
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| 1564 | 1580 | | |
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| 1565 | 1581 | | (g) (1) For cases in which a guardianship was established on or before June 30, 2011, or the date specified in a final order, for which the time for appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association, et al. v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. No. C 07-05086 WHA), whichever is earlier, the AFDC-FC payment described in this section shall be the foster family home rate structure in effect before the effective date specified in the order described in this paragraph. |
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| 1566 | 1582 | | |
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| 1567 | 1583 | | (2) For cases in which guardianship has been established on or after July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the order described in paragraph (1), whichever is earlier, and through December 31, 2016, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall be the basic foster family home rate structure effective and available as of December 31, 2016. |
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| 1568 | 1584 | | |
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| 1569 | 1585 | | (3) For cases in which guardianship has been established by the juvenile court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the home-based family care rate structure developed pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 11461 and Section 11463. |
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| 1570 | 1586 | | |
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| 1571 | 1587 | | (4) For cases in which guardianship has been established in the probate court on or after January 1, 2017, the AFDC-FC payments described in this section shall not exceed the basic level rate of the home-based family care rate structure. |
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| 1572 | 1588 | | |
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| 1573 | 1589 | | (5) Beginning with the 201112 fiscal year, the AFDC-FC payments identified in this subdivision shall be adjusted annually by the percentage change in the California Necessities Index rate as set forth in paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461. |
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| 1574 | 1590 | | |
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| 1575 | 1591 | | (h) In addition to the AFDC-FC rate paid, all of the following also shall be paid: |
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| 1576 | 1592 | | |
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| 1577 | 1593 | | (1) A specialized care increment, if applicable, as set forth in subdivision (e) of Section 11461. |
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| 1578 | 1594 | | |
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| 1579 | 1595 | | (2) A clothing allowance, as set forth in subdivision (f) of Section 11461. |
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| 1580 | 1596 | | |
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| 1581 | 1597 | | (3) For a child eligible for an AFDC-FC payment who is a teen parent, the rate shall include the two-hundred-dollar ($200) monthly payment made to the relative caregiver in a whole family foster home pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (d) of Section 11465. |
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| 1582 | 1598 | | |
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| 1583 | 1599 | | SEC. 21. Section 11461 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11461. (a) For children or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependents placed in a licensed or approved family home with a capacity of six or less, or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelated legal guardian, or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, or, on and after January 1, 2012, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rates in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period July 1, 1989, through December 31, 1989: AgeBasic rate 04 ........................ $294 58 ........................ $319 911 ........................ $3401214 ........................ $3781520 ........................ $412(b) (1) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that is at the levels set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive state participation, as specified in subdivision (c) of Section 15200, at these levels.(2) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that exceeds a level set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive the same level of state participation as it received on October 1, 1989.(c) The amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted as follows:(1) Effective January 1, 1990, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 12 percent.(2) Effective May 1, 1990, any county that did not increase the basic rate by 12 percent on January 1, 1990, shall do both of the following:(A) Increase the basic rate in effect December 31, 1989, for which state participation is received by 12 percent.(B) Increase the basic rate, as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (A), by an additional 5 percent.(3) (A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B), effective July 1, 1990, for the 199091 fiscal year, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by an additional 5 percent.(B) The rate increase required by subparagraph (A) shall not be applied to rates increased May 1, 1990, pursuant to paragraph (2).(4) Effective July 1, 1998, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 6 percent. Notwithstanding any other law, the 6-percent increase provided for in this paragraph shall, retroactive to July 1, 1998, apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group.(5) Notwithstanding any other law, any increase that takes effect after July 1, 1998, shall apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group.(6) The increase in the basic foster family home rate shall apply only to children placed in a licensed foster family home receiving the basic rate or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, or a nonrelated legal guardian receiving the basic rate. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster homes.(d) (1) (A) Beginning with the 199192 fiscal year, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted by the percentage changes in the California Necessities Index, computed pursuant to the methodology described in Section 11453, subject to the availability of funds.(B) In addition to the adjustment in subparagraph (A) effective January 1, 2000, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 2.36 percent rounded to the nearest dollar.(C) Effective January 1, 2008, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a), as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (B), shall be increased by 5 percent, rounded to the nearest dollar. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster family homes, and shall not be used to recompute the foster care maintenance payment that would have been paid based on the age-related, state-approved foster family home care rate and any applicable specialized care increment, for any adoption assistance agreement entered into prior to October 1, 1992, or in any subsequent reassessment for adoption assistance agreements executed before January 1, 2008.(2) (A) Any county that, as of the 199192 fiscal year, receives state participation for a basic rate that exceeds the amount set forth in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall receive an increase each year in state participation for that basic rate of one-half of the percentage adjustments specified in paragraph (1) until the difference between the countys adjusted state participation level for its basic rate and the adjusted schedule of basic rates is eliminated.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), all counties for the 19992000 fiscal year and the 200708 fiscal year shall receive an increase in state participation for the basic rate of the entire percentage adjustment described in paragraph (1).(3) If a county has, after receiving the adjustments specified in paragraph (2), a state participation level for a basic rate that is below the amount set forth in the adjusted schedule of basic rates for that fiscal year, the state participation level for that rate shall be further increased to the amount specified in the adjusted schedule of basic rates.(e) (1) As used in this section, specialized care increment means an amount paid on behalf of a child requiring specialized care to a home listed in subdivision (g) in addition to the basic rate. Notwithstanding subdivision (g), the specialized care increment shall not be paid to a nonminor dependent placed in a supervised independent living setting as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11403. A county may have a ratesetting system for specialized care to pay for the additional care and supervision needed to address the behavioral, emotional, and physical requirements of foster children. A county may modify its specialized care rate system as needed, to accommodate changing specialized placement needs of children.(2) (A) The department shall have the authority to review the countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used for compliance with state and federal law, and to require counties to make changes if necessary to conform to state and federal law.(B) The department shall make available to the public each countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used to determine the specialized care increments.(3) Upon a request by a county for technical assistance, specialized care information shall be provided by the department within 90 days of the request to the department.(4) (A) Except for subparagraph (B), beginning January 1, 1990, specialized care increments shall be adjusted in accordance with the methodology for the schedule of basic rates described in subdivisions (c) and (d).(B) Notwithstanding subdivision (e) of Section 11460, for the 199394 fiscal year, an amount equal to 5 percent of the State Treasury appropriation for family homes shall be added to the total augmentation for the AFDC-FC program in order to provide incentives and assistance to counties in the area of specialized care. This appropriation shall be used, but not limited to, encouraging counties to implement or expand specialized care payment systems, to recruit and train foster parents for the placement of children with specialized care needs, and to develop county systems to encourage the placement of children in family homes. It is the intent of the Legislature that in the use of these funds, federal financial participation shall be claimed whenever possible.(C) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the specialized care increment shall not receive a cost-of-living adjustment in the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), a county may choose to apply a cost-of-living adjustment to its specialized care increment during the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years. To the extent that a county chooses to apply a cost-of-living adjustment during that time, the state shall not participate in the costs of that adjustment.(iii) To the extent that federal financial participation is available for a cost-of-living adjustment made by a county pursuant to clause (ii), it is the intent of the Legislature that the federal funding shall be utilized.(5) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and for each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this subdivision shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code.(f) (1) As used in this section, clothing allowance means the amount paid by a county, at the countys option, in addition to the basic rate for the provision of additional clothing for a child, including, but not limited to, an initial supply of clothing and school or other uniforms. The frequency and level of funding shall be based on the needs of the child, as determined by the county.(2) The state shall no longer participate in any clothing allowance in addition to the basic rate, commencing with the 201112 fiscal year.(g) (1) Notwithstanding subdivisions (a) to (d), inclusive, for a child, or on and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor dependent, placed in a licensed foster family home or with a resource family, or placed in an approved home of a relative or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member as described in Section 362.7, or placed on and after January 1, 2012, in a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rate in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period commencing July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the final order, for which the time to appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. C 07-08056 WHA), whichever is earlier, through June 30, 2012:AgeBasic rate 04 ........................ $609 58 ........................ $660 911 ........................ $6951214 ........................ $7271520 ........................ $761(2) Commencing July 1, 2011, the basic rate set forth in this subdivision shall be annually adjusted on July 1 by the annual percentage change in the California Necessities Index applicable to the calendar year within which each July 1 occurs.(3) Subdivisions (e) and (f) shall apply to payments made pursuant to this subdivision.(4) (A) (i) For the 201617 fiscal year, the department shall develop a basic rate in coordination with the development of the foster family agency rate authorized in Section 11463 that ensures a child placed in a home-based setting described in paragraph (1), and a child placed in a certified family home or with a resource family approved by a foster family agency, is eligible for the same basic rate set forth in this paragraph.(ii) The rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(iii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020.(B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family approved by a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the certified family home or resource family from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to Section 11463.(C) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the basic rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(D) The basic rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to subparagraph (C) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(h) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this section shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code. |
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| 1584 | 1600 | | |
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| 1585 | 1601 | | SEC. 21. Section 11461 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read: |
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| 1586 | 1602 | | |
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| 1587 | 1603 | | ### SEC. 21. |
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| 1588 | 1604 | | |
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| 1589 | 1605 | | 11461. (a) For children or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependents placed in a licensed or approved family home with a capacity of six or less, or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelated legal guardian, or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, or, on and after January 1, 2012, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rates in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period July 1, 1989, through December 31, 1989: AgeBasic rate 04 ........................ $294 58 ........................ $319 911 ........................ $3401214 ........................ $3781520 ........................ $412(b) (1) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that is at the levels set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive state participation, as specified in subdivision (c) of Section 15200, at these levels.(2) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that exceeds a level set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive the same level of state participation as it received on October 1, 1989.(c) The amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted as follows:(1) Effective January 1, 1990, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 12 percent.(2) Effective May 1, 1990, any county that did not increase the basic rate by 12 percent on January 1, 1990, shall do both of the following:(A) Increase the basic rate in effect December 31, 1989, for which state participation is received by 12 percent.(B) Increase the basic rate, as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (A), by an additional 5 percent.(3) (A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B), effective July 1, 1990, for the 199091 fiscal year, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by an additional 5 percent.(B) The rate increase required by subparagraph (A) shall not be applied to rates increased May 1, 1990, pursuant to paragraph (2).(4) Effective July 1, 1998, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 6 percent. Notwithstanding any other law, the 6-percent increase provided for in this paragraph shall, retroactive to July 1, 1998, apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group.(5) Notwithstanding any other law, any increase that takes effect after July 1, 1998, shall apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group.(6) The increase in the basic foster family home rate shall apply only to children placed in a licensed foster family home receiving the basic rate or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, or a nonrelated legal guardian receiving the basic rate. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster homes.(d) (1) (A) Beginning with the 199192 fiscal year, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted by the percentage changes in the California Necessities Index, computed pursuant to the methodology described in Section 11453, subject to the availability of funds.(B) In addition to the adjustment in subparagraph (A) effective January 1, 2000, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 2.36 percent rounded to the nearest dollar.(C) Effective January 1, 2008, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a), as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (B), shall be increased by 5 percent, rounded to the nearest dollar. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster family homes, and shall not be used to recompute the foster care maintenance payment that would have been paid based on the age-related, state-approved foster family home care rate and any applicable specialized care increment, for any adoption assistance agreement entered into prior to October 1, 1992, or in any subsequent reassessment for adoption assistance agreements executed before January 1, 2008.(2) (A) Any county that, as of the 199192 fiscal year, receives state participation for a basic rate that exceeds the amount set forth in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall receive an increase each year in state participation for that basic rate of one-half of the percentage adjustments specified in paragraph (1) until the difference between the countys adjusted state participation level for its basic rate and the adjusted schedule of basic rates is eliminated.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), all counties for the 19992000 fiscal year and the 200708 fiscal year shall receive an increase in state participation for the basic rate of the entire percentage adjustment described in paragraph (1).(3) If a county has, after receiving the adjustments specified in paragraph (2), a state participation level for a basic rate that is below the amount set forth in the adjusted schedule of basic rates for that fiscal year, the state participation level for that rate shall be further increased to the amount specified in the adjusted schedule of basic rates.(e) (1) As used in this section, specialized care increment means an amount paid on behalf of a child requiring specialized care to a home listed in subdivision (g) in addition to the basic rate. Notwithstanding subdivision (g), the specialized care increment shall not be paid to a nonminor dependent placed in a supervised independent living setting as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11403. A county may have a ratesetting system for specialized care to pay for the additional care and supervision needed to address the behavioral, emotional, and physical requirements of foster children. A county may modify its specialized care rate system as needed, to accommodate changing specialized placement needs of children.(2) (A) The department shall have the authority to review the countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used for compliance with state and federal law, and to require counties to make changes if necessary to conform to state and federal law.(B) The department shall make available to the public each countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used to determine the specialized care increments.(3) Upon a request by a county for technical assistance, specialized care information shall be provided by the department within 90 days of the request to the department.(4) (A) Except for subparagraph (B), beginning January 1, 1990, specialized care increments shall be adjusted in accordance with the methodology for the schedule of basic rates described in subdivisions (c) and (d).(B) Notwithstanding subdivision (e) of Section 11460, for the 199394 fiscal year, an amount equal to 5 percent of the State Treasury appropriation for family homes shall be added to the total augmentation for the AFDC-FC program in order to provide incentives and assistance to counties in the area of specialized care. This appropriation shall be used, but not limited to, encouraging counties to implement or expand specialized care payment systems, to recruit and train foster parents for the placement of children with specialized care needs, and to develop county systems to encourage the placement of children in family homes. It is the intent of the Legislature that in the use of these funds, federal financial participation shall be claimed whenever possible.(C) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the specialized care increment shall not receive a cost-of-living adjustment in the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), a county may choose to apply a cost-of-living adjustment to its specialized care increment during the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years. To the extent that a county chooses to apply a cost-of-living adjustment during that time, the state shall not participate in the costs of that adjustment.(iii) To the extent that federal financial participation is available for a cost-of-living adjustment made by a county pursuant to clause (ii), it is the intent of the Legislature that the federal funding shall be utilized.(5) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and for each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this subdivision shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code.(f) (1) As used in this section, clothing allowance means the amount paid by a county, at the countys option, in addition to the basic rate for the provision of additional clothing for a child, including, but not limited to, an initial supply of clothing and school or other uniforms. The frequency and level of funding shall be based on the needs of the child, as determined by the county.(2) The state shall no longer participate in any clothing allowance in addition to the basic rate, commencing with the 201112 fiscal year.(g) (1) Notwithstanding subdivisions (a) to (d), inclusive, for a child, or on and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor dependent, placed in a licensed foster family home or with a resource family, or placed in an approved home of a relative or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member as described in Section 362.7, or placed on and after January 1, 2012, in a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rate in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period commencing July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the final order, for which the time to appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. C 07-08056 WHA), whichever is earlier, through June 30, 2012:AgeBasic rate 04 ........................ $609 58 ........................ $660 911 ........................ $6951214 ........................ $7271520 ........................ $761(2) Commencing July 1, 2011, the basic rate set forth in this subdivision shall be annually adjusted on July 1 by the annual percentage change in the California Necessities Index applicable to the calendar year within which each July 1 occurs.(3) Subdivisions (e) and (f) shall apply to payments made pursuant to this subdivision.(4) (A) (i) For the 201617 fiscal year, the department shall develop a basic rate in coordination with the development of the foster family agency rate authorized in Section 11463 that ensures a child placed in a home-based setting described in paragraph (1), and a child placed in a certified family home or with a resource family approved by a foster family agency, is eligible for the same basic rate set forth in this paragraph.(ii) The rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(iii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020.(B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family approved by a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the certified family home or resource family from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to Section 11463.(C) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the basic rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(D) The basic rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to subparagraph (C) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(h) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this section shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code. |
|---|
| 1590 | 1606 | | |
|---|
| 1591 | 1607 | | 11461. (a) For children or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependents placed in a licensed or approved family home with a capacity of six or less, or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelated legal guardian, or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, or, on and after January 1, 2012, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rates in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period July 1, 1989, through December 31, 1989: AgeBasic rate 04 ........................ $294 58 ........................ $319 911 ........................ $3401214 ........................ $3781520 ........................ $412(b) (1) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that is at the levels set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive state participation, as specified in subdivision (c) of Section 15200, at these levels.(2) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that exceeds a level set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive the same level of state participation as it received on October 1, 1989.(c) The amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted as follows:(1) Effective January 1, 1990, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 12 percent.(2) Effective May 1, 1990, any county that did not increase the basic rate by 12 percent on January 1, 1990, shall do both of the following:(A) Increase the basic rate in effect December 31, 1989, for which state participation is received by 12 percent.(B) Increase the basic rate, as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (A), by an additional 5 percent.(3) (A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B), effective July 1, 1990, for the 199091 fiscal year, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by an additional 5 percent.(B) The rate increase required by subparagraph (A) shall not be applied to rates increased May 1, 1990, pursuant to paragraph (2).(4) Effective July 1, 1998, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 6 percent. Notwithstanding any other law, the 6-percent increase provided for in this paragraph shall, retroactive to July 1, 1998, apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group.(5) Notwithstanding any other law, any increase that takes effect after July 1, 1998, shall apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group.(6) The increase in the basic foster family home rate shall apply only to children placed in a licensed foster family home receiving the basic rate or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, or a nonrelated legal guardian receiving the basic rate. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster homes.(d) (1) (A) Beginning with the 199192 fiscal year, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted by the percentage changes in the California Necessities Index, computed pursuant to the methodology described in Section 11453, subject to the availability of funds.(B) In addition to the adjustment in subparagraph (A) effective January 1, 2000, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 2.36 percent rounded to the nearest dollar.(C) Effective January 1, 2008, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a), as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (B), shall be increased by 5 percent, rounded to the nearest dollar. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster family homes, and shall not be used to recompute the foster care maintenance payment that would have been paid based on the age-related, state-approved foster family home care rate and any applicable specialized care increment, for any adoption assistance agreement entered into prior to October 1, 1992, or in any subsequent reassessment for adoption assistance agreements executed before January 1, 2008.(2) (A) Any county that, as of the 199192 fiscal year, receives state participation for a basic rate that exceeds the amount set forth in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall receive an increase each year in state participation for that basic rate of one-half of the percentage adjustments specified in paragraph (1) until the difference between the countys adjusted state participation level for its basic rate and the adjusted schedule of basic rates is eliminated.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), all counties for the 19992000 fiscal year and the 200708 fiscal year shall receive an increase in state participation for the basic rate of the entire percentage adjustment described in paragraph (1).(3) If a county has, after receiving the adjustments specified in paragraph (2), a state participation level for a basic rate that is below the amount set forth in the adjusted schedule of basic rates for that fiscal year, the state participation level for that rate shall be further increased to the amount specified in the adjusted schedule of basic rates.(e) (1) As used in this section, specialized care increment means an amount paid on behalf of a child requiring specialized care to a home listed in subdivision (g) in addition to the basic rate. Notwithstanding subdivision (g), the specialized care increment shall not be paid to a nonminor dependent placed in a supervised independent living setting as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11403. A county may have a ratesetting system for specialized care to pay for the additional care and supervision needed to address the behavioral, emotional, and physical requirements of foster children. A county may modify its specialized care rate system as needed, to accommodate changing specialized placement needs of children.(2) (A) The department shall have the authority to review the countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used for compliance with state and federal law, and to require counties to make changes if necessary to conform to state and federal law.(B) The department shall make available to the public each countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used to determine the specialized care increments.(3) Upon a request by a county for technical assistance, specialized care information shall be provided by the department within 90 days of the request to the department.(4) (A) Except for subparagraph (B), beginning January 1, 1990, specialized care increments shall be adjusted in accordance with the methodology for the schedule of basic rates described in subdivisions (c) and (d).(B) Notwithstanding subdivision (e) of Section 11460, for the 199394 fiscal year, an amount equal to 5 percent of the State Treasury appropriation for family homes shall be added to the total augmentation for the AFDC-FC program in order to provide incentives and assistance to counties in the area of specialized care. This appropriation shall be used, but not limited to, encouraging counties to implement or expand specialized care payment systems, to recruit and train foster parents for the placement of children with specialized care needs, and to develop county systems to encourage the placement of children in family homes. It is the intent of the Legislature that in the use of these funds, federal financial participation shall be claimed whenever possible.(C) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the specialized care increment shall not receive a cost-of-living adjustment in the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), a county may choose to apply a cost-of-living adjustment to its specialized care increment during the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years. To the extent that a county chooses to apply a cost-of-living adjustment during that time, the state shall not participate in the costs of that adjustment.(iii) To the extent that federal financial participation is available for a cost-of-living adjustment made by a county pursuant to clause (ii), it is the intent of the Legislature that the federal funding shall be utilized.(5) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and for each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this subdivision shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code.(f) (1) As used in this section, clothing allowance means the amount paid by a county, at the countys option, in addition to the basic rate for the provision of additional clothing for a child, including, but not limited to, an initial supply of clothing and school or other uniforms. The frequency and level of funding shall be based on the needs of the child, as determined by the county.(2) The state shall no longer participate in any clothing allowance in addition to the basic rate, commencing with the 201112 fiscal year.(g) (1) Notwithstanding subdivisions (a) to (d), inclusive, for a child, or on and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor dependent, placed in a licensed foster family home or with a resource family, or placed in an approved home of a relative or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member as described in Section 362.7, or placed on and after January 1, 2012, in a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rate in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period commencing July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the final order, for which the time to appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. C 07-08056 WHA), whichever is earlier, through June 30, 2012:AgeBasic rate 04 ........................ $609 58 ........................ $660 911 ........................ $6951214 ........................ $7271520 ........................ $761(2) Commencing July 1, 2011, the basic rate set forth in this subdivision shall be annually adjusted on July 1 by the annual percentage change in the California Necessities Index applicable to the calendar year within which each July 1 occurs.(3) Subdivisions (e) and (f) shall apply to payments made pursuant to this subdivision.(4) (A) (i) For the 201617 fiscal year, the department shall develop a basic rate in coordination with the development of the foster family agency rate authorized in Section 11463 that ensures a child placed in a home-based setting described in paragraph (1), and a child placed in a certified family home or with a resource family approved by a foster family agency, is eligible for the same basic rate set forth in this paragraph.(ii) The rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(iii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020.(B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family approved by a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the certified family home or resource family from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to Section 11463.(C) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the basic rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(D) The basic rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to subparagraph (C) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(h) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this section shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code. |
|---|
| 1592 | 1608 | | |
|---|
| 1593 | 1609 | | 11461. (a) For children or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependents placed in a licensed or approved family home with a capacity of six or less, or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelated legal guardian, or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, or, on and after January 1, 2012, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rates in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period July 1, 1989, through December 31, 1989: AgeBasic rate 04 ........................ $294 58 ........................ $319 911 ........................ $3401214 ........................ $3781520 ........................ $412(b) (1) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that is at the levels set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive state participation, as specified in subdivision (c) of Section 15200, at these levels.(2) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that exceeds a level set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive the same level of state participation as it received on October 1, 1989.(c) The amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted as follows:(1) Effective January 1, 1990, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 12 percent.(2) Effective May 1, 1990, any county that did not increase the basic rate by 12 percent on January 1, 1990, shall do both of the following:(A) Increase the basic rate in effect December 31, 1989, for which state participation is received by 12 percent.(B) Increase the basic rate, as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (A), by an additional 5 percent.(3) (A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B), effective July 1, 1990, for the 199091 fiscal year, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by an additional 5 percent.(B) The rate increase required by subparagraph (A) shall not be applied to rates increased May 1, 1990, pursuant to paragraph (2).(4) Effective July 1, 1998, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 6 percent. Notwithstanding any other law, the 6-percent increase provided for in this paragraph shall, retroactive to July 1, 1998, apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group.(5) Notwithstanding any other law, any increase that takes effect after July 1, 1998, shall apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group.(6) The increase in the basic foster family home rate shall apply only to children placed in a licensed foster family home receiving the basic rate or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, or a nonrelated legal guardian receiving the basic rate. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster homes.(d) (1) (A) Beginning with the 199192 fiscal year, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted by the percentage changes in the California Necessities Index, computed pursuant to the methodology described in Section 11453, subject to the availability of funds.(B) In addition to the adjustment in subparagraph (A) effective January 1, 2000, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 2.36 percent rounded to the nearest dollar.(C) Effective January 1, 2008, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a), as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (B), shall be increased by 5 percent, rounded to the nearest dollar. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster family homes, and shall not be used to recompute the foster care maintenance payment that would have been paid based on the age-related, state-approved foster family home care rate and any applicable specialized care increment, for any adoption assistance agreement entered into prior to October 1, 1992, or in any subsequent reassessment for adoption assistance agreements executed before January 1, 2008.(2) (A) Any county that, as of the 199192 fiscal year, receives state participation for a basic rate that exceeds the amount set forth in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall receive an increase each year in state participation for that basic rate of one-half of the percentage adjustments specified in paragraph (1) until the difference between the countys adjusted state participation level for its basic rate and the adjusted schedule of basic rates is eliminated.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), all counties for the 19992000 fiscal year and the 200708 fiscal year shall receive an increase in state participation for the basic rate of the entire percentage adjustment described in paragraph (1).(3) If a county has, after receiving the adjustments specified in paragraph (2), a state participation level for a basic rate that is below the amount set forth in the adjusted schedule of basic rates for that fiscal year, the state participation level for that rate shall be further increased to the amount specified in the adjusted schedule of basic rates.(e) (1) As used in this section, specialized care increment means an amount paid on behalf of a child requiring specialized care to a home listed in subdivision (g) in addition to the basic rate. Notwithstanding subdivision (g), the specialized care increment shall not be paid to a nonminor dependent placed in a supervised independent living setting as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11403. A county may have a ratesetting system for specialized care to pay for the additional care and supervision needed to address the behavioral, emotional, and physical requirements of foster children. A county may modify its specialized care rate system as needed, to accommodate changing specialized placement needs of children.(2) (A) The department shall have the authority to review the countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used for compliance with state and federal law, and to require counties to make changes if necessary to conform to state and federal law.(B) The department shall make available to the public each countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used to determine the specialized care increments.(3) Upon a request by a county for technical assistance, specialized care information shall be provided by the department within 90 days of the request to the department.(4) (A) Except for subparagraph (B), beginning January 1, 1990, specialized care increments shall be adjusted in accordance with the methodology for the schedule of basic rates described in subdivisions (c) and (d).(B) Notwithstanding subdivision (e) of Section 11460, for the 199394 fiscal year, an amount equal to 5 percent of the State Treasury appropriation for family homes shall be added to the total augmentation for the AFDC-FC program in order to provide incentives and assistance to counties in the area of specialized care. This appropriation shall be used, but not limited to, encouraging counties to implement or expand specialized care payment systems, to recruit and train foster parents for the placement of children with specialized care needs, and to develop county systems to encourage the placement of children in family homes. It is the intent of the Legislature that in the use of these funds, federal financial participation shall be claimed whenever possible.(C) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the specialized care increment shall not receive a cost-of-living adjustment in the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), a county may choose to apply a cost-of-living adjustment to its specialized care increment during the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years. To the extent that a county chooses to apply a cost-of-living adjustment during that time, the state shall not participate in the costs of that adjustment.(iii) To the extent that federal financial participation is available for a cost-of-living adjustment made by a county pursuant to clause (ii), it is the intent of the Legislature that the federal funding shall be utilized.(5) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and for each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this subdivision shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code.(f) (1) As used in this section, clothing allowance means the amount paid by a county, at the countys option, in addition to the basic rate for the provision of additional clothing for a child, including, but not limited to, an initial supply of clothing and school or other uniforms. The frequency and level of funding shall be based on the needs of the child, as determined by the county.(2) The state shall no longer participate in any clothing allowance in addition to the basic rate, commencing with the 201112 fiscal year.(g) (1) Notwithstanding subdivisions (a) to (d), inclusive, for a child, or on and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor dependent, placed in a licensed foster family home or with a resource family, or placed in an approved home of a relative or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member as described in Section 362.7, or placed on and after January 1, 2012, in a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rate in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period commencing July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the final order, for which the time to appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. C 07-08056 WHA), whichever is earlier, through June 30, 2012:AgeBasic rate 04 ........................ $609 58 ........................ $660 911 ........................ $6951214 ........................ $7271520 ........................ $761(2) Commencing July 1, 2011, the basic rate set forth in this subdivision shall be annually adjusted on July 1 by the annual percentage change in the California Necessities Index applicable to the calendar year within which each July 1 occurs.(3) Subdivisions (e) and (f) shall apply to payments made pursuant to this subdivision.(4) (A) (i) For the 201617 fiscal year, the department shall develop a basic rate in coordination with the development of the foster family agency rate authorized in Section 11463 that ensures a child placed in a home-based setting described in paragraph (1), and a child placed in a certified family home or with a resource family approved by a foster family agency, is eligible for the same basic rate set forth in this paragraph.(ii) The rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(iii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020.(B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family approved by a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the certified family home or resource family from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to Section 11463.(C) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the basic rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(D) The basic rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to subparagraph (C) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(h) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this section shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code. |
|---|
| 1594 | 1610 | | |
|---|
| 1595 | 1611 | | |
|---|
| 1596 | 1612 | | |
|---|
| 1597 | 1613 | | 11461. (a) For children or, on and after January 1, 2012, nonminor dependents placed in a licensed or approved family home with a capacity of six or less, or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelated legal guardian, or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, or, on and after January 1, 2012, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rates in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period July 1, 1989, through December 31, 1989: AgeBasic rate 04 ........................ $294 58 ........................ $319 911 ........................ $3401214 ........................ $3781520 ........................ $412 |
|---|
| 1598 | 1614 | | |
|---|
| 1599 | 1615 | | |
|---|
| 1600 | 1616 | | 04 ........................ $294 |
|---|
| 1601 | 1617 | | 58 ........................ $319 |
|---|
| 1602 | 1618 | | 911 ........................ $340 |
|---|
| 1603 | 1619 | | 1214 ........................ $378 |
|---|
| 1604 | 1620 | | 1520 ........................ $412 |
|---|
| 1605 | 1621 | | |
|---|
| 1606 | 1622 | | Age |
|---|
| 1607 | 1623 | | |
|---|
| 1608 | 1624 | | Basic rate |
|---|
| 1609 | 1625 | | |
|---|
| 1610 | 1626 | | 04 ........................ |
|---|
| 1611 | 1627 | | |
|---|
| 1612 | 1628 | | $294 |
|---|
| 1613 | 1629 | | |
|---|
| 1614 | 1630 | | 58 ........................ |
|---|
| 1615 | 1631 | | |
|---|
| 1616 | 1632 | | $319 |
|---|
| 1617 | 1633 | | |
|---|
| 1618 | 1634 | | 911 ........................ |
|---|
| 1619 | 1635 | | |
|---|
| 1620 | 1636 | | $340 |
|---|
| 1621 | 1637 | | |
|---|
| 1622 | 1638 | | 1214 ........................ |
|---|
| 1623 | 1639 | | |
|---|
| 1624 | 1640 | | $378 |
|---|
| 1625 | 1641 | | |
|---|
| 1626 | 1642 | | 1520 ........................ |
|---|
| 1627 | 1643 | | |
|---|
| 1628 | 1644 | | $412 |
|---|
| 1629 | 1645 | | |
|---|
| 1630 | 1646 | | (b) (1) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that is at the levels set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive state participation, as specified in subdivision (c) of Section 15200, at these levels. |
|---|
| 1631 | 1647 | | |
|---|
| 1632 | 1648 | | (2) Any county that, as of October 1, 1989, has in effect a basic rate that exceeds a level set forth in the schedule in subdivision (a), shall continue to receive the same level of state participation as it received on October 1, 1989. |
|---|
| 1633 | 1649 | | |
|---|
| 1634 | 1650 | | (c) The amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted as follows: |
|---|
| 1635 | 1651 | | |
|---|
| 1636 | 1652 | | (1) Effective January 1, 1990, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 12 percent. |
|---|
| 1637 | 1653 | | |
|---|
| 1638 | 1654 | | (2) Effective May 1, 1990, any county that did not increase the basic rate by 12 percent on January 1, 1990, shall do both of the following: |
|---|
| 1639 | 1655 | | |
|---|
| 1640 | 1656 | | (A) Increase the basic rate in effect December 31, 1989, for which state participation is received by 12 percent. |
|---|
| 1641 | 1657 | | |
|---|
| 1642 | 1658 | | (B) Increase the basic rate, as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (A), by an additional 5 percent. |
|---|
| 1643 | 1659 | | |
|---|
| 1644 | 1660 | | (3) (A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B), effective July 1, 1990, for the 199091 fiscal year, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by an additional 5 percent. |
|---|
| 1645 | 1661 | | |
|---|
| 1646 | 1662 | | (B) The rate increase required by subparagraph (A) shall not be applied to rates increased May 1, 1990, pursuant to paragraph (2). |
|---|
| 1647 | 1663 | | |
|---|
| 1648 | 1664 | | (4) Effective July 1, 1998, the amounts in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 6 percent. Notwithstanding any other law, the 6-percent increase provided for in this paragraph shall, retroactive to July 1, 1998, apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group. |
|---|
| 1649 | 1665 | | |
|---|
| 1650 | 1666 | | (5) Notwithstanding any other law, any increase that takes effect after July 1, 1998, shall apply to every county, including any county to which paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) applies, and shall apply to foster care for every age group. |
|---|
| 1651 | 1667 | | |
|---|
| 1652 | 1668 | | (6) The increase in the basic foster family home rate shall apply only to children placed in a licensed foster family home receiving the basic rate or in an approved home of a relative or nonrelative extended family member, as described in Section 362.7, a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, or a nonrelated legal guardian receiving the basic rate. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster homes. |
|---|
| 1653 | 1669 | | |
|---|
| 1654 | 1670 | | (d) (1) (A) Beginning with the 199192 fiscal year, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be adjusted by the percentage changes in the California Necessities Index, computed pursuant to the methodology described in Section 11453, subject to the availability of funds. |
|---|
| 1655 | 1671 | | |
|---|
| 1656 | 1672 | | (B) In addition to the adjustment in subparagraph (A) effective January 1, 2000, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall be increased by 2.36 percent rounded to the nearest dollar. |
|---|
| 1657 | 1673 | | |
|---|
| 1658 | 1674 | | (C) Effective January 1, 2008, the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a), as adjusted pursuant to subparagraph (B), shall be increased by 5 percent, rounded to the nearest dollar. The increased rate shall not be used to compute the monthly amount that may be paid to licensed foster family agencies for the placement of children in certified foster family homes, and shall not be used to recompute the foster care maintenance payment that would have been paid based on the age-related, state-approved foster family home care rate and any applicable specialized care increment, for any adoption assistance agreement entered into prior to October 1, 1992, or in any subsequent reassessment for adoption assistance agreements executed before January 1, 2008. |
|---|
| 1659 | 1675 | | |
|---|
| 1660 | 1676 | | (2) (A) Any county that, as of the 199192 fiscal year, receives state participation for a basic rate that exceeds the amount set forth in the schedule of basic rates in subdivision (a) shall receive an increase each year in state participation for that basic rate of one-half of the percentage adjustments specified in paragraph (1) until the difference between the countys adjusted state participation level for its basic rate and the adjusted schedule of basic rates is eliminated. |
|---|
| 1661 | 1677 | | |
|---|
| 1662 | 1678 | | (B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), all counties for the 19992000 fiscal year and the 200708 fiscal year shall receive an increase in state participation for the basic rate of the entire percentage adjustment described in paragraph (1). |
|---|
| 1663 | 1679 | | |
|---|
| 1664 | 1680 | | (3) If a county has, after receiving the adjustments specified in paragraph (2), a state participation level for a basic rate that is below the amount set forth in the adjusted schedule of basic rates for that fiscal year, the state participation level for that rate shall be further increased to the amount specified in the adjusted schedule of basic rates. |
|---|
| 1665 | 1681 | | |
|---|
| 1666 | 1682 | | (e) (1) As used in this section, specialized care increment means an amount paid on behalf of a child requiring specialized care to a home listed in subdivision (g) in addition to the basic rate. Notwithstanding subdivision (g), the specialized care increment shall not be paid to a nonminor dependent placed in a supervised independent living setting as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11403. A county may have a ratesetting system for specialized care to pay for the additional care and supervision needed to address the behavioral, emotional, and physical requirements of foster children. A county may modify its specialized care rate system as needed, to accommodate changing specialized placement needs of children. |
|---|
| 1667 | 1683 | | |
|---|
| 1668 | 1684 | | (2) (A) The department shall have the authority to review the countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used for compliance with state and federal law, and to require counties to make changes if necessary to conform to state and federal law. |
|---|
| 1669 | 1685 | | |
|---|
| 1670 | 1686 | | (B) The department shall make available to the public each countys specialized care information, including the criteria and methodology used to determine the specialized care increments. |
|---|
| 1671 | 1687 | | |
|---|
| 1672 | 1688 | | (3) Upon a request by a county for technical assistance, specialized care information shall be provided by the department within 90 days of the request to the department. |
|---|
| 1673 | 1689 | | |
|---|
| 1674 | 1690 | | (4) (A) Except for subparagraph (B), beginning January 1, 1990, specialized care increments shall be adjusted in accordance with the methodology for the schedule of basic rates described in subdivisions (c) and (d). |
|---|
| 1675 | 1691 | | |
|---|
| 1676 | 1692 | | (B) Notwithstanding subdivision (e) of Section 11460, for the 199394 fiscal year, an amount equal to 5 percent of the State Treasury appropriation for family homes shall be added to the total augmentation for the AFDC-FC program in order to provide incentives and assistance to counties in the area of specialized care. This appropriation shall be used, but not limited to, encouraging counties to implement or expand specialized care payment systems, to recruit and train foster parents for the placement of children with specialized care needs, and to develop county systems to encourage the placement of children in family homes. It is the intent of the Legislature that in the use of these funds, federal financial participation shall be claimed whenever possible. |
|---|
| 1677 | 1693 | | |
|---|
| 1678 | 1694 | | (C) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the specialized care increment shall not receive a cost-of-living adjustment in the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years. |
|---|
| 1679 | 1695 | | |
|---|
| 1680 | 1696 | | (ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), a county may choose to apply a cost-of-living adjustment to its specialized care increment during the 201112 or 201213 fiscal years. To the extent that a county chooses to apply a cost-of-living adjustment during that time, the state shall not participate in the costs of that adjustment. |
|---|
| 1681 | 1697 | | |
|---|
| 1682 | 1698 | | (iii) To the extent that federal financial participation is available for a cost-of-living adjustment made by a county pursuant to clause (ii), it is the intent of the Legislature that the federal funding shall be utilized. |
|---|
| 1683 | 1699 | | |
|---|
| 1684 | 1700 | | (5) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and for each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this subdivision shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code. |
|---|
| 1685 | 1701 | | |
|---|
| 1686 | 1702 | | (f) (1) As used in this section, clothing allowance means the amount paid by a county, at the countys option, in addition to the basic rate for the provision of additional clothing for a child, including, but not limited to, an initial supply of clothing and school or other uniforms. The frequency and level of funding shall be based on the needs of the child, as determined by the county. |
|---|
| 1687 | 1703 | | |
|---|
| 1688 | 1704 | | (2) The state shall no longer participate in any clothing allowance in addition to the basic rate, commencing with the 201112 fiscal year. |
|---|
| 1689 | 1705 | | |
|---|
| 1690 | 1706 | | (g) (1) Notwithstanding subdivisions (a) to (d), inclusive, for a child, or on and after January 1, 2012, a nonminor dependent, placed in a licensed foster family home or with a resource family, or placed in an approved home of a relative or the approved home of a nonrelative extended family member as described in Section 362.7, or placed on and after January 1, 2012, in a supervised independent living placement, as defined in subdivision (w) of Section 11400, the per child per month basic rate in the following schedule shall be in effect for the period commencing July 1, 2011, or the date specified in the final order, for which the time to appeal has passed, issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in California State Foster Parent Association v. William Lightbourne, et al. (U.S. Dist. Ct. C 07-08056 WHA), whichever is earlier, through June 30, 2012: |
|---|
| 1691 | 1707 | | |
|---|
| 1692 | 1708 | | |
|---|
| 1693 | 1709 | | 04 ........................ $609 |
|---|
| 1694 | 1710 | | 58 ........................ $660 |
|---|
| 1695 | 1711 | | 911 ........................ $695 |
|---|
| 1696 | 1712 | | 1214 ........................ $727 |
|---|
| 1697 | 1713 | | 1520 ........................ $761 |
|---|
| 1698 | 1714 | | |
|---|
| 1699 | 1715 | | Age |
|---|
| 1700 | 1716 | | |
|---|
| 1701 | 1717 | | Basic rate |
|---|
| 1702 | 1718 | | |
|---|
| 1703 | 1719 | | 04 ........................ |
|---|
| 1704 | 1720 | | |
|---|
| 1705 | 1721 | | $609 |
|---|
| 1706 | 1722 | | |
|---|
| 1707 | 1723 | | 58 ........................ |
|---|
| 1708 | 1724 | | |
|---|
| 1709 | 1725 | | $660 |
|---|
| 1710 | 1726 | | |
|---|
| 1711 | 1727 | | 911 ........................ |
|---|
| 1712 | 1728 | | |
|---|
| 1713 | 1729 | | $695 |
|---|
| 1714 | 1730 | | |
|---|
| 1715 | 1731 | | 1214 ........................ |
|---|
| 1716 | 1732 | | |
|---|
| 1717 | 1733 | | $727 |
|---|
| 1718 | 1734 | | |
|---|
| 1719 | 1735 | | 1520 ........................ |
|---|
| 1720 | 1736 | | |
|---|
| 1721 | 1737 | | $761 |
|---|
| 1722 | 1738 | | |
|---|
| 1723 | 1739 | | (2) Commencing July 1, 2011, the basic rate set forth in this subdivision shall be annually adjusted on July 1 by the annual percentage change in the California Necessities Index applicable to the calendar year within which each July 1 occurs. |
|---|
| 1724 | 1740 | | |
|---|
| 1725 | 1741 | | (3) Subdivisions (e) and (f) shall apply to payments made pursuant to this subdivision. |
|---|
| 1726 | 1742 | | |
|---|
| 1727 | 1743 | | (4) (A) (i) For the 201617 fiscal year, the department shall develop a basic rate in coordination with the development of the foster family agency rate authorized in Section 11463 that ensures a child placed in a home-based setting described in paragraph (1), and a child placed in a certified family home or with a resource family approved by a foster family agency, is eligible for the same basic rate set forth in this paragraph. |
|---|
| 1728 | 1744 | | |
|---|
| 1729 | 1745 | | (ii) The rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision. |
|---|
| 1730 | 1746 | | |
|---|
| 1731 | 1747 | | (iii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020. |
|---|
| 1732 | 1748 | | |
|---|
| 1733 | 1749 | | (B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family approved by a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the certified family home or resource family from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to Section 11463. |
|---|
| 1734 | 1750 | | |
|---|
| 1735 | 1751 | | (C) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the basic rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted. |
|---|
| 1736 | 1752 | | |
|---|
| 1737 | 1753 | | (D) The basic rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to subparagraph (C) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative. |
|---|
| 1738 | 1754 | | |
|---|
| 1739 | 1755 | | (h) Beginning in the 201112 fiscal year, and each fiscal year thereafter, funding and expenditures for programs and activities under this section shall be in accordance with the requirements provided in Sections 30025 and 30026.5 of the Government Code. |
|---|
| 1740 | 1756 | | |
|---|
| 1741 | 1757 | | SEC. 22. Section 11462 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11462. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for short-term residential therapeutic program placements claiming Title IV-E funding, in consultation with county placing agencies and providers.(b) The department shall develop a rate system that includes consideration of all of the following factors:(1) Core services, made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through formal agreements with other agencies, which are trauma informed and culturally relevant and include:(A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services under the Medi-Cal Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment program.(B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship.(C) Educational and physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports.(D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood.(E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate.(F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services described in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, which shall be provided to eligible children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7.(G) (i) Facilitating the identification and, as needed, the approval of resource families pursuant to Section 16519.5, for the purpose of transitioning children and youth to family-based care.(ii) If a short-term residential therapeutic program elects to approve and monitor resource families directly, the program shall comply with all laws applicable to foster family agencies, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code).(iii) For short-term residential therapeutic programs that elect to approve and monitor resource families directly, the department shall have all the same duties and responsibilities as those programs have for licensed foster family agencies, as set forth in applicable law, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code).(2) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (G), inclusive, of paragraph (1) are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent they are already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, or school-based extracurricular activities.(3) Specialized and intensive treatment supports that encompass the elements of nonmedical care and supervision necessary to meet a childs or youths safety and other needs that cannot be met in a family-based setting.(4) Staff training.(5) Health and Safety Code requirements.(6) Accreditation that includes:(A) Provision for all licensed short-term residential therapeutic programs to obtain and maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency, as identified by the department, with expertise in programs for children or youth group care facilities, as determined by the department.(B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying that agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required.(C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status.(7) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status.(8) Maximization of federal financial participation under Title IV-E and Title XIX of the Social Security Act.(c) The department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b) commencing January 1, 2017. The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new short-term residential therapeutic programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives.(1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020.(B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (3) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021.(2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, the following shall be established:(A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate.(B) An administrative review process for rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations.(C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and a protest with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations.(3) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the initial interim rates, provisional rates, and probationary rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety audits and reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers. |
|---|
| 1742 | 1758 | | |
|---|
| 1743 | 1759 | | SEC. 22. Section 11462 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read: |
|---|
| 1744 | 1760 | | |
|---|
| 1745 | 1761 | | ### SEC. 22. |
|---|
| 1746 | 1762 | | |
|---|
| 1747 | 1763 | | 11462. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for short-term residential therapeutic program placements claiming Title IV-E funding, in consultation with county placing agencies and providers.(b) The department shall develop a rate system that includes consideration of all of the following factors:(1) Core services, made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through formal agreements with other agencies, which are trauma informed and culturally relevant and include:(A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services under the Medi-Cal Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment program.(B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship.(C) Educational and physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports.(D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood.(E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate.(F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services described in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, which shall be provided to eligible children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7.(G) (i) Facilitating the identification and, as needed, the approval of resource families pursuant to Section 16519.5, for the purpose of transitioning children and youth to family-based care.(ii) If a short-term residential therapeutic program elects to approve and monitor resource families directly, the program shall comply with all laws applicable to foster family agencies, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code).(iii) For short-term residential therapeutic programs that elect to approve and monitor resource families directly, the department shall have all the same duties and responsibilities as those programs have for licensed foster family agencies, as set forth in applicable law, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code).(2) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (G), inclusive, of paragraph (1) are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent they are already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, or school-based extracurricular activities.(3) Specialized and intensive treatment supports that encompass the elements of nonmedical care and supervision necessary to meet a childs or youths safety and other needs that cannot be met in a family-based setting.(4) Staff training.(5) Health and Safety Code requirements.(6) Accreditation that includes:(A) Provision for all licensed short-term residential therapeutic programs to obtain and maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency, as identified by the department, with expertise in programs for children or youth group care facilities, as determined by the department.(B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying that agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required.(C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status.(7) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status.(8) Maximization of federal financial participation under Title IV-E and Title XIX of the Social Security Act.(c) The department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b) commencing January 1, 2017. The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new short-term residential therapeutic programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives.(1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020.(B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (3) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021.(2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, the following shall be established:(A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate.(B) An administrative review process for rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations.(C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and a protest with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations.(3) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the initial interim rates, provisional rates, and probationary rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety audits and reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers. |
|---|
| 1748 | 1764 | | |
|---|
| 1749 | 1765 | | 11462. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for short-term residential therapeutic program placements claiming Title IV-E funding, in consultation with county placing agencies and providers.(b) The department shall develop a rate system that includes consideration of all of the following factors:(1) Core services, made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through formal agreements with other agencies, which are trauma informed and culturally relevant and include:(A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services under the Medi-Cal Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment program.(B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship.(C) Educational and physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports.(D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood.(E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate.(F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services described in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, which shall be provided to eligible children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7.(G) (i) Facilitating the identification and, as needed, the approval of resource families pursuant to Section 16519.5, for the purpose of transitioning children and youth to family-based care.(ii) If a short-term residential therapeutic program elects to approve and monitor resource families directly, the program shall comply with all laws applicable to foster family agencies, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code).(iii) For short-term residential therapeutic programs that elect to approve and monitor resource families directly, the department shall have all the same duties and responsibilities as those programs have for licensed foster family agencies, as set forth in applicable law, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code).(2) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (G), inclusive, of paragraph (1) are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent they are already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, or school-based extracurricular activities.(3) Specialized and intensive treatment supports that encompass the elements of nonmedical care and supervision necessary to meet a childs or youths safety and other needs that cannot be met in a family-based setting.(4) Staff training.(5) Health and Safety Code requirements.(6) Accreditation that includes:(A) Provision for all licensed short-term residential therapeutic programs to obtain and maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency, as identified by the department, with expertise in programs for children or youth group care facilities, as determined by the department.(B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying that agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required.(C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status.(7) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status.(8) Maximization of federal financial participation under Title IV-E and Title XIX of the Social Security Act.(c) The department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b) commencing January 1, 2017. The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new short-term residential therapeutic programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives.(1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020.(B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (3) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021.(2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, the following shall be established:(A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate.(B) An administrative review process for rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations.(C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and a protest with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations.(3) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the initial interim rates, provisional rates, and probationary rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety audits and reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers. |
|---|
| 1750 | 1766 | | |
|---|
| 1751 | 1767 | | 11462. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for short-term residential therapeutic program placements claiming Title IV-E funding, in consultation with county placing agencies and providers.(b) The department shall develop a rate system that includes consideration of all of the following factors:(1) Core services, made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through formal agreements with other agencies, which are trauma informed and culturally relevant and include:(A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services under the Medi-Cal Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment program.(B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship.(C) Educational and physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports.(D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood.(E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate.(F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services described in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, which shall be provided to eligible children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7.(G) (i) Facilitating the identification and, as needed, the approval of resource families pursuant to Section 16519.5, for the purpose of transitioning children and youth to family-based care.(ii) If a short-term residential therapeutic program elects to approve and monitor resource families directly, the program shall comply with all laws applicable to foster family agencies, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code).(iii) For short-term residential therapeutic programs that elect to approve and monitor resource families directly, the department shall have all the same duties and responsibilities as those programs have for licensed foster family agencies, as set forth in applicable law, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code).(2) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (G), inclusive, of paragraph (1) are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent they are already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, or school-based extracurricular activities.(3) Specialized and intensive treatment supports that encompass the elements of nonmedical care and supervision necessary to meet a childs or youths safety and other needs that cannot be met in a family-based setting.(4) Staff training.(5) Health and Safety Code requirements.(6) Accreditation that includes:(A) Provision for all licensed short-term residential therapeutic programs to obtain and maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency, as identified by the department, with expertise in programs for children or youth group care facilities, as determined by the department.(B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying that agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required.(C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status.(7) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status.(8) Maximization of federal financial participation under Title IV-E and Title XIX of the Social Security Act.(c) The department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b) commencing January 1, 2017. The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new short-term residential therapeutic programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives.(1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020.(B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (3) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021.(2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, the following shall be established:(A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate.(B) An administrative review process for rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations.(C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and a protest with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations.(3) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the initial interim rates, provisional rates, and probationary rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety audits and reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers. |
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| 1752 | 1768 | | |
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| 1753 | 1769 | | |
|---|
| 1754 | 1770 | | |
|---|
| 1755 | 1771 | | 11462. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for short-term residential therapeutic program placements claiming Title IV-E funding, in consultation with county placing agencies and providers. |
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| 1756 | 1772 | | |
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| 1757 | 1773 | | (b) The department shall develop a rate system that includes consideration of all of the following factors: |
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| 1758 | 1774 | | |
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| 1759 | 1775 | | (1) Core services, made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through formal agreements with other agencies, which are trauma informed and culturally relevant and include: |
|---|
| 1760 | 1776 | | |
|---|
| 1761 | 1777 | | (A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services under the Medi-Cal Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment program. |
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| 1762 | 1778 | | |
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| 1763 | 1779 | | (B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship. |
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| 1764 | 1780 | | |
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| 1765 | 1781 | | (C) Educational and physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports. |
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| 1766 | 1782 | | |
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| 1767 | 1783 | | (D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood. |
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| 1768 | 1784 | | |
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| 1769 | 1785 | | (E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate. |
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| 1770 | 1786 | | |
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| 1771 | 1787 | | (F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services described in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, which shall be provided to eligible children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7. |
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| 1772 | 1788 | | |
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| 1773 | 1789 | | (G) (i) Facilitating the identification and, as needed, the approval of resource families pursuant to Section 16519.5, for the purpose of transitioning children and youth to family-based care. |
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| 1774 | 1790 | | |
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| 1775 | 1791 | | (ii) If a short-term residential therapeutic program elects to approve and monitor resource families directly, the program shall comply with all laws applicable to foster family agencies, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code). |
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| 1776 | 1792 | | |
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| 1777 | 1793 | | (iii) For short-term residential therapeutic programs that elect to approve and monitor resource families directly, the department shall have all the same duties and responsibilities as those programs have for licensed foster family agencies, as set forth in applicable law, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code). |
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| 1778 | 1794 | | |
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| 1779 | 1795 | | (2) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (G), inclusive, of paragraph (1) are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent they are already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, or school-based extracurricular activities. |
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| 1780 | 1796 | | |
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| 1781 | 1797 | | (3) Specialized and intensive treatment supports that encompass the elements of nonmedical care and supervision necessary to meet a childs or youths safety and other needs that cannot be met in a family-based setting. |
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| 1782 | 1798 | | |
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| 1783 | 1799 | | (4) Staff training. |
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| 1784 | 1800 | | |
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| 1785 | 1801 | | (5) Health and Safety Code requirements. |
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| 1786 | 1802 | | |
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| 1787 | 1803 | | (6) Accreditation that includes: |
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| 1788 | 1804 | | |
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| 1789 | 1805 | | (A) Provision for all licensed short-term residential therapeutic programs to obtain and maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency, as identified by the department, with expertise in programs for children or youth group care facilities, as determined by the department. |
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| 1790 | 1806 | | |
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| 1791 | 1807 | | (B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying that agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required. |
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| 1792 | 1808 | | |
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| 1793 | 1809 | | (C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status. |
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| 1794 | 1810 | | |
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| 1795 | 1811 | | (7) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status. |
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| 1796 | 1812 | | |
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| 1797 | 1813 | | (8) Maximization of federal financial participation under Title IV-E and Title XIX of the Social Security Act. |
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| 1798 | 1814 | | |
|---|
| 1799 | 1815 | | (c) The department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b) commencing January 1, 2017. The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new short-term residential therapeutic programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives. |
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| 1800 | 1816 | | |
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| 1801 | 1817 | | (1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020. |
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| 1802 | 1818 | | |
|---|
| 1803 | 1819 | | (B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision. |
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| 1804 | 1820 | | |
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| 1805 | 1821 | | (C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (3) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative. |
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| 1806 | 1822 | | |
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| 1807 | 1823 | | (D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021. |
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| 1808 | 1824 | | |
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| 1809 | 1825 | | (2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, the following shall be established: |
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| 1810 | 1826 | | |
|---|
| 1811 | 1827 | | (A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate. |
|---|
| 1812 | 1828 | | |
|---|
| 1813 | 1829 | | (B) An administrative review process for rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations. |
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| 1814 | 1830 | | |
|---|
| 1815 | 1831 | | (C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and a protest with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations. |
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| 1816 | 1832 | | |
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| 1817 | 1833 | | (3) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the initial interim rates, provisional rates, and probationary rates and the manner in which they are determined shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted. |
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| 1818 | 1834 | | |
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| 1819 | 1835 | | (d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety audits and reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers. |
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| 1820 | 1836 | | |
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| 1821 | 1837 | | SEC. 23. Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:11463. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for the Title IV-E funded foster family agency placement option that maximizes federal funding, in consultation with county placing agencies.(b) The department shall develop a payment system for foster family agencies that provide treatment, intensive treatment, and therapeutic foster care programs, and shall consider all of the following factors:(1) Administrative activities that are eligible for federal financial participation provided, at the request of the county, for and to county-licensed or approved family homes and resource families, intensive case management and supervision, and services to achieve legal permanency or successful transition to adulthood.(2) Social work activities that are eligible for federal financial participation under Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(3) Social work and mental health services eligible for federal financial participation under Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(4) Intensive treatment or therapeutic services in the foster family agency.(5) Core services that are made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through agreements with other agencies, and which are trauma informed, culturally relevant, and include any of the following:(A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.(B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship.(C) Educational, physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports.(D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood.(E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate.(F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, shall be provided to eligible Indian children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7.(G) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (F), inclusive, are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, and school-based extracurricular activities.(6) Staff training.(7) Health and Safety Code requirements.(8) A process for accreditation that includes all of the following:(A) Provision for all licensed foster family agencies to maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency with expertise in programs for youth group care facilities, as determined by the department.(B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying the agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required.(C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status.(9) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status.(10) Populations served, including, but not limited to, any of the following:(A) (i) Children and youth assessed as seriously emotionally disturbed, as described in subdivision (a) of Section 5600.3, including those children and youth placed out-of-home pursuant to an individualized education program developed under Article 2 (commencing with Section 56320) of Chapter 4 of Part 30 of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Education Code.(ii) Children assessed as meeting the medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.(B) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving intensive and therapeutic treatment services in a foster family agency.(C) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving mental health treatment services from a foster family agency.(11) Maximization of federal financial participation for Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) and Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et. seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(c) Commencing January 1, 2017, the department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b). The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new foster family agency programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives.(1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020.(B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (4) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021.(2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, all of the following shall be established:(A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate.(B) An administrative review process for the rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations.(C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and an appeal with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations.(3) (A) (i) The foster family agency rate shall include a basic rate pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461. A child or youth placed in a certified family home or with a resource family of a foster family agency is eligible for the basic rate, which shall be passed on to the certified parent or resource family along with annual increases in accordance with paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461.(ii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate as set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020.(B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family of a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the home from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to this section.(C) In addition to the basic rate described in this paragraph, the department shall develop foster family agency rates that consider specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(i) Intensive treatment and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care.(ii) Specialized health care needs.(4) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the foster family agency rates, and the manner in which they are determined, shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers.(e) The department shall consider the impact on children and youth being transitioned to alternate programs as a result of the new ratesetting system.(f) (1) Commencing July 1, 2019, the rates paid to foster family agencies shall, except for the rate paid to a certified family home or resource family agency pursuant to clause (i) of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c), be 4.15 percent higher than the rates paid to foster family agencies in the 201819 fiscal year.(2) (A) The rate increase described in paragraph (1) shall be suspended on December 31, 2021, unless subparagraph (B) applies.(B) If, in the determination of the Department of Finance, the estimates of General Fund revenues and expenditures determined pursuant to Section 12.5 of Article IV of the California Constitution that accompany the May Revision required to be released by May 14, 2021, pursuant to Section 13308 of the Government Code, contain projected annual General Fund revenues that exceed projected annual General Fund expenditures in the 202122 and 202223 fiscal years by the sum total of General Fund moneys appropriated for all programs subject to suspension on December 31, 2021, pursuant to the Budget Act of 2019 and the bills providing for appropriations related to the Budget Act of 2019 within the meaning of subdivision (e) of Section 12 of Article IV of the California Constitution, then the implementation of the rate increase described in this subdivision shall not be suspended pursuant to subparagraph (A).(C) If subparagraph (A) applies, it is the intent of the Legislature to consider alternative solutions to facilitate the continued implementation of the rate increase described in paragraph (1). |
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| 1822 | 1838 | | |
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| 1823 | 1839 | | SEC. 23. Section 11463 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read: |
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| 1824 | 1840 | | |
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| 1825 | 1841 | | ### SEC. 23. |
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| 1826 | 1842 | | |
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| 1827 | 1843 | | 11463. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for the Title IV-E funded foster family agency placement option that maximizes federal funding, in consultation with county placing agencies.(b) The department shall develop a payment system for foster family agencies that provide treatment, intensive treatment, and therapeutic foster care programs, and shall consider all of the following factors:(1) Administrative activities that are eligible for federal financial participation provided, at the request of the county, for and to county-licensed or approved family homes and resource families, intensive case management and supervision, and services to achieve legal permanency or successful transition to adulthood.(2) Social work activities that are eligible for federal financial participation under Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(3) Social work and mental health services eligible for federal financial participation under Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(4) Intensive treatment or therapeutic services in the foster family agency.(5) Core services that are made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through agreements with other agencies, and which are trauma informed, culturally relevant, and include any of the following:(A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.(B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship.(C) Educational, physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports.(D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood.(E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate.(F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, shall be provided to eligible Indian children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7.(G) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (F), inclusive, are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, and school-based extracurricular activities.(6) Staff training.(7) Health and Safety Code requirements.(8) A process for accreditation that includes all of the following:(A) Provision for all licensed foster family agencies to maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency with expertise in programs for youth group care facilities, as determined by the department.(B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying the agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required.(C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status.(9) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status.(10) Populations served, including, but not limited to, any of the following:(A) (i) Children and youth assessed as seriously emotionally disturbed, as described in subdivision (a) of Section 5600.3, including those children and youth placed out-of-home pursuant to an individualized education program developed under Article 2 (commencing with Section 56320) of Chapter 4 of Part 30 of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Education Code.(ii) Children assessed as meeting the medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.(B) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving intensive and therapeutic treatment services in a foster family agency.(C) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving mental health treatment services from a foster family agency.(11) Maximization of federal financial participation for Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) and Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et. seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(c) Commencing January 1, 2017, the department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b). The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new foster family agency programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives.(1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020.(B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (4) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021.(2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, all of the following shall be established:(A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate.(B) An administrative review process for the rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations.(C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and an appeal with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations.(3) (A) (i) The foster family agency rate shall include a basic rate pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461. A child or youth placed in a certified family home or with a resource family of a foster family agency is eligible for the basic rate, which shall be passed on to the certified parent or resource family along with annual increases in accordance with paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461.(ii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate as set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020.(B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family of a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the home from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to this section.(C) In addition to the basic rate described in this paragraph, the department shall develop foster family agency rates that consider specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(i) Intensive treatment and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care.(ii) Specialized health care needs.(4) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the foster family agency rates, and the manner in which they are determined, shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers.(e) The department shall consider the impact on children and youth being transitioned to alternate programs as a result of the new ratesetting system.(f) (1) Commencing July 1, 2019, the rates paid to foster family agencies shall, except for the rate paid to a certified family home or resource family agency pursuant to clause (i) of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c), be 4.15 percent higher than the rates paid to foster family agencies in the 201819 fiscal year.(2) (A) The rate increase described in paragraph (1) shall be suspended on December 31, 2021, unless subparagraph (B) applies.(B) If, in the determination of the Department of Finance, the estimates of General Fund revenues and expenditures determined pursuant to Section 12.5 of Article IV of the California Constitution that accompany the May Revision required to be released by May 14, 2021, pursuant to Section 13308 of the Government Code, contain projected annual General Fund revenues that exceed projected annual General Fund expenditures in the 202122 and 202223 fiscal years by the sum total of General Fund moneys appropriated for all programs subject to suspension on December 31, 2021, pursuant to the Budget Act of 2019 and the bills providing for appropriations related to the Budget Act of 2019 within the meaning of subdivision (e) of Section 12 of Article IV of the California Constitution, then the implementation of the rate increase described in this subdivision shall not be suspended pursuant to subparagraph (A).(C) If subparagraph (A) applies, it is the intent of the Legislature to consider alternative solutions to facilitate the continued implementation of the rate increase described in paragraph (1). |
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| 1828 | 1844 | | |
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| 1829 | 1845 | | 11463. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for the Title IV-E funded foster family agency placement option that maximizes federal funding, in consultation with county placing agencies.(b) The department shall develop a payment system for foster family agencies that provide treatment, intensive treatment, and therapeutic foster care programs, and shall consider all of the following factors:(1) Administrative activities that are eligible for federal financial participation provided, at the request of the county, for and to county-licensed or approved family homes and resource families, intensive case management and supervision, and services to achieve legal permanency or successful transition to adulthood.(2) Social work activities that are eligible for federal financial participation under Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(3) Social work and mental health services eligible for federal financial participation under Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(4) Intensive treatment or therapeutic services in the foster family agency.(5) Core services that are made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through agreements with other agencies, and which are trauma informed, culturally relevant, and include any of the following:(A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.(B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship.(C) Educational, physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports.(D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood.(E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate.(F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, shall be provided to eligible Indian children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7.(G) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (F), inclusive, are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, and school-based extracurricular activities.(6) Staff training.(7) Health and Safety Code requirements.(8) A process for accreditation that includes all of the following:(A) Provision for all licensed foster family agencies to maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency with expertise in programs for youth group care facilities, as determined by the department.(B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying the agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required.(C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status.(9) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status.(10) Populations served, including, but not limited to, any of the following:(A) (i) Children and youth assessed as seriously emotionally disturbed, as described in subdivision (a) of Section 5600.3, including those children and youth placed out-of-home pursuant to an individualized education program developed under Article 2 (commencing with Section 56320) of Chapter 4 of Part 30 of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Education Code.(ii) Children assessed as meeting the medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.(B) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving intensive and therapeutic treatment services in a foster family agency.(C) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving mental health treatment services from a foster family agency.(11) Maximization of federal financial participation for Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) and Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et. seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(c) Commencing January 1, 2017, the department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b). The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new foster family agency programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives.(1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020.(B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (4) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021.(2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, all of the following shall be established:(A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate.(B) An administrative review process for the rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations.(C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and an appeal with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations.(3) (A) (i) The foster family agency rate shall include a basic rate pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461. A child or youth placed in a certified family home or with a resource family of a foster family agency is eligible for the basic rate, which shall be passed on to the certified parent or resource family along with annual increases in accordance with paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461.(ii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate as set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020.(B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family of a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the home from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to this section.(C) In addition to the basic rate described in this paragraph, the department shall develop foster family agency rates that consider specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(i) Intensive treatment and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care.(ii) Specialized health care needs.(4) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the foster family agency rates, and the manner in which they are determined, shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers.(e) The department shall consider the impact on children and youth being transitioned to alternate programs as a result of the new ratesetting system.(f) (1) Commencing July 1, 2019, the rates paid to foster family agencies shall, except for the rate paid to a certified family home or resource family agency pursuant to clause (i) of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c), be 4.15 percent higher than the rates paid to foster family agencies in the 201819 fiscal year.(2) (A) The rate increase described in paragraph (1) shall be suspended on December 31, 2021, unless subparagraph (B) applies.(B) If, in the determination of the Department of Finance, the estimates of General Fund revenues and expenditures determined pursuant to Section 12.5 of Article IV of the California Constitution that accompany the May Revision required to be released by May 14, 2021, pursuant to Section 13308 of the Government Code, contain projected annual General Fund revenues that exceed projected annual General Fund expenditures in the 202122 and 202223 fiscal years by the sum total of General Fund moneys appropriated for all programs subject to suspension on December 31, 2021, pursuant to the Budget Act of 2019 and the bills providing for appropriations related to the Budget Act of 2019 within the meaning of subdivision (e) of Section 12 of Article IV of the California Constitution, then the implementation of the rate increase described in this subdivision shall not be suspended pursuant to subparagraph (A).(C) If subparagraph (A) applies, it is the intent of the Legislature to consider alternative solutions to facilitate the continued implementation of the rate increase described in paragraph (1). |
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| 1830 | 1846 | | |
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| 1831 | 1847 | | 11463. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for the Title IV-E funded foster family agency placement option that maximizes federal funding, in consultation with county placing agencies.(b) The department shall develop a payment system for foster family agencies that provide treatment, intensive treatment, and therapeutic foster care programs, and shall consider all of the following factors:(1) Administrative activities that are eligible for federal financial participation provided, at the request of the county, for and to county-licensed or approved family homes and resource families, intensive case management and supervision, and services to achieve legal permanency or successful transition to adulthood.(2) Social work activities that are eligible for federal financial participation under Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(3) Social work and mental health services eligible for federal financial participation under Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(4) Intensive treatment or therapeutic services in the foster family agency.(5) Core services that are made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through agreements with other agencies, and which are trauma informed, culturally relevant, and include any of the following:(A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.(B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship.(C) Educational, physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports.(D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood.(E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate.(F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, shall be provided to eligible Indian children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7.(G) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (F), inclusive, are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, and school-based extracurricular activities.(6) Staff training.(7) Health and Safety Code requirements.(8) A process for accreditation that includes all of the following:(A) Provision for all licensed foster family agencies to maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency with expertise in programs for youth group care facilities, as determined by the department.(B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying the agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required.(C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status.(9) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status.(10) Populations served, including, but not limited to, any of the following:(A) (i) Children and youth assessed as seriously emotionally disturbed, as described in subdivision (a) of Section 5600.3, including those children and youth placed out-of-home pursuant to an individualized education program developed under Article 2 (commencing with Section 56320) of Chapter 4 of Part 30 of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Education Code.(ii) Children assessed as meeting the medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.(B) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving intensive and therapeutic treatment services in a foster family agency.(C) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving mental health treatment services from a foster family agency.(11) Maximization of federal financial participation for Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) and Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et. seq.) of the federal Social Security Act.(c) Commencing January 1, 2017, the department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b). The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new foster family agency programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives.(1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020.(B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision.(C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (4) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative.(D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021.(2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, all of the following shall be established:(A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate.(B) An administrative review process for the rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations.(C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and an appeal with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations.(3) (A) (i) The foster family agency rate shall include a basic rate pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461. A child or youth placed in a certified family home or with a resource family of a foster family agency is eligible for the basic rate, which shall be passed on to the certified parent or resource family along with annual increases in accordance with paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461.(ii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate as set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020.(B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family of a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the home from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to this section.(C) In addition to the basic rate described in this paragraph, the department shall develop foster family agency rates that consider specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(i) Intensive treatment and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care.(ii) Specialized health care needs.(4) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the foster family agency rates, and the manner in which they are determined, shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted.(d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers.(e) The department shall consider the impact on children and youth being transitioned to alternate programs as a result of the new ratesetting system.(f) (1) Commencing July 1, 2019, the rates paid to foster family agencies shall, except for the rate paid to a certified family home or resource family agency pursuant to clause (i) of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c), be 4.15 percent higher than the rates paid to foster family agencies in the 201819 fiscal year.(2) (A) The rate increase described in paragraph (1) shall be suspended on December 31, 2021, unless subparagraph (B) applies.(B) If, in the determination of the Department of Finance, the estimates of General Fund revenues and expenditures determined pursuant to Section 12.5 of Article IV of the California Constitution that accompany the May Revision required to be released by May 14, 2021, pursuant to Section 13308 of the Government Code, contain projected annual General Fund revenues that exceed projected annual General Fund expenditures in the 202122 and 202223 fiscal years by the sum total of General Fund moneys appropriated for all programs subject to suspension on December 31, 2021, pursuant to the Budget Act of 2019 and the bills providing for appropriations related to the Budget Act of 2019 within the meaning of subdivision (e) of Section 12 of Article IV of the California Constitution, then the implementation of the rate increase described in this subdivision shall not be suspended pursuant to subparagraph (A).(C) If subparagraph (A) applies, it is the intent of the Legislature to consider alternative solutions to facilitate the continued implementation of the rate increase described in paragraph (1). |
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| 1832 | 1848 | | |
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| 1833 | 1849 | | |
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| 1834 | 1850 | | |
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| 1835 | 1851 | | 11463. (a) The department shall commence development of a new payment structure for the Title IV-E funded foster family agency placement option that maximizes federal funding, in consultation with county placing agencies. |
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| 1836 | 1852 | | |
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| 1837 | 1853 | | (b) The department shall develop a payment system for foster family agencies that provide treatment, intensive treatment, and therapeutic foster care programs, and shall consider all of the following factors: |
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| 1838 | 1854 | | |
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| 1839 | 1855 | | (1) Administrative activities that are eligible for federal financial participation provided, at the request of the county, for and to county-licensed or approved family homes and resource families, intensive case management and supervision, and services to achieve legal permanency or successful transition to adulthood. |
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| 1840 | 1856 | | |
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| 1841 | 1857 | | (2) Social work activities that are eligible for federal financial participation under Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act. |
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| 1842 | 1858 | | |
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| 1843 | 1859 | | (3) Social work and mental health services eligible for federal financial participation under Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et seq.) of the federal Social Security Act. |
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| 1844 | 1860 | | |
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| 1845 | 1861 | | (4) Intensive treatment or therapeutic services in the foster family agency. |
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| 1846 | 1862 | | |
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| 1847 | 1863 | | (5) Core services that are made available to children and nonminor dependents either directly or secured through agreements with other agencies, and which are trauma informed, culturally relevant, and include any of the following: |
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| 1848 | 1864 | | |
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| 1849 | 1865 | | (A) Specialty mental health services for children who meet medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations. |
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| 1850 | 1866 | | |
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| 1851 | 1867 | | (B) Transition support services for children, youth, and families upon initial entry and placement changes and for families who assume permanency through reunification, adoption, or guardianship. |
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| 1852 | 1868 | | |
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| 1853 | 1869 | | (C) Educational, physical, behavioral, and mental health supports, including extracurricular activities and social supports. |
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| 1854 | 1870 | | |
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| 1855 | 1871 | | (D) Activities designed to support transition-age youth and nonminor dependents in achieving a successful adulthood. |
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| 1856 | 1872 | | |
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| 1857 | 1873 | | (E) Services to achieve permanency, including supporting efforts to reunify or achieve adoption or guardianship and efforts to maintain or establish relationships with parents, siblings, extended family members, tribes, or others important to the child or youth, as appropriate. |
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| 1858 | 1874 | | |
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| 1859 | 1875 | | (F) When serving Indian children, as defined in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 224.1, the core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (E), inclusive, shall be provided to eligible Indian children consistent with active efforts pursuant to Section 361.7. |
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| 1860 | 1876 | | |
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| 1861 | 1877 | | (G) The core services specified in subparagraphs (A) to (F), inclusive, are not intended to duplicate services already available to foster children in the community, but to support access to those services and supports to the extent already available. Those services and supports may include, but are not limited to, foster youth services available through county offices of education, Indian Health Services, and school-based extracurricular activities. |
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| 1862 | 1878 | | |
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| 1863 | 1879 | | (6) Staff training. |
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| 1864 | 1880 | | |
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| 1865 | 1881 | | (7) Health and Safety Code requirements. |
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| 1866 | 1882 | | |
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| 1867 | 1883 | | (8) A process for accreditation that includes all of the following: |
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| 1868 | 1884 | | |
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| 1869 | 1885 | | (A) Provision for all licensed foster family agencies to maintain in good standing accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation agency with expertise in programs for youth group care facilities, as determined by the department. |
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| 1870 | 1886 | | |
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| 1871 | 1887 | | (B) Promulgation by the department of information identifying the agency or agencies from which accreditation shall be required. |
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| 1872 | 1888 | | |
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| 1873 | 1889 | | (C) Provision for timely reporting to the department of any change in accreditation status. |
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| 1874 | 1890 | | |
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| 1875 | 1891 | | (9) Mental health certification, including a requirement to timely report to the department any change in mental health certificate status. |
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| 1876 | 1892 | | |
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| 1877 | 1893 | | (10) Populations served, including, but not limited to, any of the following: |
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| 1878 | 1894 | | |
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| 1879 | 1895 | | (A) (i) Children and youth assessed as seriously emotionally disturbed, as described in subdivision (a) of Section 5600.3, including those children and youth placed out-of-home pursuant to an individualized education program developed under Article 2 (commencing with Section 56320) of Chapter 4 of Part 30 of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Education Code. |
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| 1880 | 1896 | | |
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| 1881 | 1897 | | (ii) Children assessed as meeting the medical necessity criteria for specialty mental health services, as provided for in Section 1830.205 or 1830.210 of Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations. |
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| 1882 | 1898 | | |
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| 1883 | 1899 | | (B) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving intensive and therapeutic treatment services in a foster family agency. |
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| 1884 | 1900 | | |
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| 1885 | 1901 | | (C) AFDC-FC children and youth receiving mental health treatment services from a foster family agency. |
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| 1886 | 1902 | | |
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| 1887 | 1903 | | (11) Maximization of federal financial participation for Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670 et seq.) and Title XIX (42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396 et. seq.) of the federal Social Security Act. |
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| 1888 | 1904 | | |
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| 1889 | 1905 | | (c) Commencing January 1, 2017, the department shall establish rates pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b). The rate structure shall include an interim rate, a provisional rate for new foster family agency programs, and a probationary rate. The department may issue a one-time reimbursement for accreditation fees incurred after August 1, 2016, in an amount and manner determined by the department in written directives. |
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| 1890 | 1906 | | |
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| 1891 | 1907 | | (1) (A) Initial interim rates developed pursuant to this section shall be effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2020. |
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| 1892 | 1908 | | |
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| 1893 | 1909 | | (B) The initial interim rates developed pursuant to this paragraph shall not be lower than the rates proposed as part of the Governors 2016 May Revision. |
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| 1894 | 1910 | | |
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| 1895 | 1911 | | (C) The initial interim rates set forth in written directives or regulations pursuant to paragraph (4) shall become inoperative on January 1, 2021, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before January 1, 2021, deletes or extends the dates on which they become inoperative. |
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| 1896 | 1912 | | |
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| 1897 | 1913 | | (D) It is the intent of the Legislature to establish an ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2021. |
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| 1898 | 1914 | | |
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| 1899 | 1915 | | (2) Consistent with Section 11466.01, for provisional and probationary rates, all of the following shall be established: |
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| 1900 | 1916 | | |
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| 1901 | 1917 | | (A) Terms and conditions, including the duration of the rate. |
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| 1902 | 1918 | | |
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| 1903 | 1919 | | (B) An administrative review process for the rate determinations, including denials, reductions, and terminations. |
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| 1904 | 1920 | | |
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| 1905 | 1921 | | (C) An administrative review process that includes a departmental review, corrective action, and an appeal with the department. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), this process shall be disseminated by written directive pending the promulgation of regulations. |
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| 1906 | 1922 | | |
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| 1907 | 1923 | | (3) (A) (i) The foster family agency rate shall include a basic rate pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461. A child or youth placed in a certified family home or with a resource family of a foster family agency is eligible for the basic rate, which shall be passed on to the certified parent or resource family along with annual increases in accordance with paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 11461. |
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| 1908 | 1924 | | |
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| 1909 | 1925 | | (ii) A certified family home of a foster family agency shall be paid the basic rate as set forth in this paragraph only through December 31, 2020. |
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| 1910 | 1926 | | |
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| 1911 | 1927 | | (B) The basic rate paid to either a certified family home or a resource family of a foster family agency shall be paid by the agency to the home from the rate that is paid to the agency pursuant to this section. |
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| 1912 | 1928 | | |
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| 1913 | 1929 | | (C) In addition to the basic rate described in this paragraph, the department shall develop foster family agency rates that consider specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, all of the following: |
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| 1914 | 1930 | | |
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| 1915 | 1931 | | (i) Intensive treatment and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care. |
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| 1916 | 1932 | | |
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| 1917 | 1933 | | (ii) Specialized health care needs. |
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| 1918 | 1934 | | |
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| 1919 | 1935 | | (4) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the foster family agency rates, and the manner in which they are determined, shall be set forth in written directives until regulations are adopted. |
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| 1920 | 1936 | | |
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| 1921 | 1937 | | (d) The department shall develop a system of governmental monitoring and oversight that shall be carried out in coordination with the State Department of Health Care Services. Oversight responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, ensuring conformity with federal and state law, including program, fiscal, and health and safety reviews. The state agencies shall attempt to minimize duplicative audits and reviews to reduce the administrative burden on providers. |
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| 1922 | 1938 | | |
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| 1923 | 1939 | | (e) The department shall consider the impact on children and youth being transitioned to alternate programs as a result of the new ratesetting system. |
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| 1924 | 1940 | | |
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| 1925 | 1941 | | (f) (1) Commencing July 1, 2019, the rates paid to foster family agencies shall, except for the rate paid to a certified family home or resource family agency pursuant to clause (i) of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c), be 4.15 percent higher than the rates paid to foster family agencies in the 201819 fiscal year. |
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| 1926 | 1942 | | |
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| 1927 | 1943 | | (2) (A) The rate increase described in paragraph (1) shall be suspended on December 31, 2021, unless subparagraph (B) applies. |
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| 1928 | 1944 | | |
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| 1929 | 1945 | | (B) If, in the determination of the Department of Finance, the estimates of General Fund revenues and expenditures determined pursuant to Section 12.5 of Article IV of the California Constitution that accompany the May Revision required to be released by May 14, 2021, pursuant to Section 13308 of the Government Code, contain projected annual General Fund revenues that exceed projected annual General Fund expenditures in the 202122 and 202223 fiscal years by the sum total of General Fund moneys appropriated for all programs subject to suspension on December 31, 2021, pursuant to the Budget Act of 2019 and the bills providing for appropriations related to the Budget Act of 2019 within the meaning of subdivision (e) of Section 12 of Article IV of the California Constitution, then the implementation of the rate increase described in this subdivision shall not be suspended pursuant to subparagraph (A). |
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| 1930 | 1946 | | |
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| 1931 | 1947 | | (C) If subparagraph (A) applies, it is the intent of the Legislature to consider alternative solutions to facilitate the continued implementation of the rate increase described in paragraph (1). |
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| 1932 | 1948 | | |
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| 1933 | 1949 | | SEC. 24. Section 16501.95 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, immediately following Section 16501.9, to read:16501.95. (a) The State Department of Social Services shall determine which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in Section 1355.51 of Title 45 of the Code of Federal Regulations.(b) The department shall develop and issue written directives for child welfare contributing agencies to submit data to the applicable statewide child welfare case management systems. These directives shall address all of the following:(1) Identification of which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in federal regulations.(2) The data that a child welfare contributing agency shall provide.(3) The method in which a child welfare contributing agency shall provide data, which shall include either of the following:(A) Direct data entry into the states child welfare case management system.(B) A bidirectional data exchange between the information systems maintained by the child welfare contributing agency and the states child welfare case management system.(4) A timeline for providing the specified data in the required manner.(c) In accordance with the written directives of the department, a child welfare contributing agency shall provide child welfare services data that is collected as a result of fulfilling their contracts or agreements with the department or a county child welfare department, to the statewide child welfare case management system.(d) Notwithstanding any other law, until regulations are adopted, the department may issue written directives by provider bulletins or all-county letters, as applicable. These written directives shall have the same force and effect as regulations. The written directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code). |
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| 1934 | 1950 | | |
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| 1935 | 1951 | | SEC. 24. Section 16501.95 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, immediately following Section 16501.9, to read: |
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| 1936 | 1952 | | |
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| 1937 | 1953 | | ### SEC. 24. |
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| 1938 | 1954 | | |
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| 1939 | 1955 | | 16501.95. (a) The State Department of Social Services shall determine which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in Section 1355.51 of Title 45 of the Code of Federal Regulations.(b) The department shall develop and issue written directives for child welfare contributing agencies to submit data to the applicable statewide child welfare case management systems. These directives shall address all of the following:(1) Identification of which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in federal regulations.(2) The data that a child welfare contributing agency shall provide.(3) The method in which a child welfare contributing agency shall provide data, which shall include either of the following:(A) Direct data entry into the states child welfare case management system.(B) A bidirectional data exchange between the information systems maintained by the child welfare contributing agency and the states child welfare case management system.(4) A timeline for providing the specified data in the required manner.(c) In accordance with the written directives of the department, a child welfare contributing agency shall provide child welfare services data that is collected as a result of fulfilling their contracts or agreements with the department or a county child welfare department, to the statewide child welfare case management system.(d) Notwithstanding any other law, until regulations are adopted, the department may issue written directives by provider bulletins or all-county letters, as applicable. These written directives shall have the same force and effect as regulations. The written directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code). |
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| 1940 | 1956 | | |
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| 1941 | 1957 | | 16501.95. (a) The State Department of Social Services shall determine which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in Section 1355.51 of Title 45 of the Code of Federal Regulations.(b) The department shall develop and issue written directives for child welfare contributing agencies to submit data to the applicable statewide child welfare case management systems. These directives shall address all of the following:(1) Identification of which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in federal regulations.(2) The data that a child welfare contributing agency shall provide.(3) The method in which a child welfare contributing agency shall provide data, which shall include either of the following:(A) Direct data entry into the states child welfare case management system.(B) A bidirectional data exchange between the information systems maintained by the child welfare contributing agency and the states child welfare case management system.(4) A timeline for providing the specified data in the required manner.(c) In accordance with the written directives of the department, a child welfare contributing agency shall provide child welfare services data that is collected as a result of fulfilling their contracts or agreements with the department or a county child welfare department, to the statewide child welfare case management system.(d) Notwithstanding any other law, until regulations are adopted, the department may issue written directives by provider bulletins or all-county letters, as applicable. These written directives shall have the same force and effect as regulations. The written directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code). |
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| 1942 | 1958 | | |
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| 1943 | 1959 | | 16501.95. (a) The State Department of Social Services shall determine which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in Section 1355.51 of Title 45 of the Code of Federal Regulations.(b) The department shall develop and issue written directives for child welfare contributing agencies to submit data to the applicable statewide child welfare case management systems. These directives shall address all of the following:(1) Identification of which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in federal regulations.(2) The data that a child welfare contributing agency shall provide.(3) The method in which a child welfare contributing agency shall provide data, which shall include either of the following:(A) Direct data entry into the states child welfare case management system.(B) A bidirectional data exchange between the information systems maintained by the child welfare contributing agency and the states child welfare case management system.(4) A timeline for providing the specified data in the required manner.(c) In accordance with the written directives of the department, a child welfare contributing agency shall provide child welfare services data that is collected as a result of fulfilling their contracts or agreements with the department or a county child welfare department, to the statewide child welfare case management system.(d) Notwithstanding any other law, until regulations are adopted, the department may issue written directives by provider bulletins or all-county letters, as applicable. These written directives shall have the same force and effect as regulations. The written directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code). |
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| 1944 | 1960 | | |
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| 1945 | 1961 | | |
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| 1946 | 1962 | | |
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| 1947 | 1963 | | 16501.95. (a) The State Department of Social Services shall determine which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in Section 1355.51 of Title 45 of the Code of Federal Regulations. |
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| 1948 | 1964 | | |
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| 1949 | 1965 | | (b) The department shall develop and issue written directives for child welfare contributing agencies to submit data to the applicable statewide child welfare case management systems. These directives shall address all of the following: |
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| 1950 | 1966 | | |
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| 1951 | 1967 | | (1) Identification of which entities meet the definition of a child welfare contributing agency, as defined in federal regulations. |
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| 1952 | 1968 | | |
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| 1953 | 1969 | | (2) The data that a child welfare contributing agency shall provide. |
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| 1954 | 1970 | | |
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| 1955 | 1971 | | (3) The method in which a child welfare contributing agency shall provide data, which shall include either of the following: |
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| 1956 | 1972 | | |
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| 1957 | 1973 | | (A) Direct data entry into the states child welfare case management system. |
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| 1958 | 1974 | | |
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| 1959 | 1975 | | (B) A bidirectional data exchange between the information systems maintained by the child welfare contributing agency and the states child welfare case management system. |
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| 1960 | 1976 | | |
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| 1961 | 1977 | | (4) A timeline for providing the specified data in the required manner. |
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| 1962 | 1978 | | |
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| 1963 | 1979 | | (c) In accordance with the written directives of the department, a child welfare contributing agency shall provide child welfare services data that is collected as a result of fulfilling their contracts or agreements with the department or a county child welfare department, to the statewide child welfare case management system. |
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| 1964 | 1980 | | |
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| 1965 | 1981 | | (d) Notwithstanding any other law, until regulations are adopted, the department may issue written directives by provider bulletins or all-county letters, as applicable. These written directives shall have the same force and effect as regulations. The written directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code). |
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| 1966 | 1982 | | |
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| 1967 | 1983 | | SEC. 25. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency. |
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| 1968 | 1984 | | |
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| 1969 | 1985 | | SEC. 25. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read: |
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| 1970 | 1986 | | |
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| 1971 | 1987 | | ### SEC. 25. |
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| 1972 | 1988 | | |
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| 1973 | 1989 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency. |
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| 1974 | 1990 | | |
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| 1975 | 1991 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency. |
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| 1976 | 1992 | | |
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| 1977 | 1993 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency. |
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| 1978 | 1994 | | |
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| 1979 | 1995 | | |
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| 1980 | 1996 | | |
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| 1981 | 1997 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families. |
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| 1982 | 1998 | | |
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| 1983 | 1999 | | (b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location. |
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| 1984 | 2000 | | |
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| 1985 | 2001 | | (2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department. |
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| 1986 | 2002 | | |
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| 1987 | 2003 | | (3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following: |
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| 1988 | 2004 | | |
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| 1989 | 2005 | | (A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. |
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| 1990 | 2006 | | |
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| 1991 | 2007 | | (B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families. |
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| 1992 | 2008 | | |
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| 1993 | 2009 | | (C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties. |
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| 1994 | 2010 | | |
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| 1995 | 2011 | | (4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following: |
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| 1996 | 2012 | | |
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| 1997 | 2013 | | (A) Submitting an implementation plan. |
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| 1998 | 2014 | | |
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| 1999 | 2015 | | (B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program. |
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| 2000 | 2016 | | |
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| 2001 | 2017 | | (C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan. |
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| 2002 | 2018 | | |
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| 2003 | 2019 | | (D) Training appropriate staff. |
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| 2004 | 2020 | | |
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| 2005 | 2021 | | (E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department. |
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| 2006 | 2022 | | |
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| 2007 | 2023 | | (5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program. |
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| 2008 | 2024 | | |
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| 2009 | 2025 | | (B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes. |
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| 2010 | 2026 | | |
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| 2011 | 2027 | | (6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program. |
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| 2012 | 2028 | | |
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| 2013 | 2029 | | (7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017. |
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| 2014 | 2030 | | |
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| 2015 | 2031 | | (c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following: |
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| 2016 | 2032 | | |
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| 2017 | 2033 | | (A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both. |
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| 2018 | 2034 | | |
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| 2019 | 2035 | | (B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking. |
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| 2020 | 2036 | | |
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| 2021 | 2037 | | (C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan. |
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| 2022 | 2038 | | |
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| 2023 | 2039 | | (D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family. |
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| 2024 | 2040 | | |
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| 2025 | 2041 | | (E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child. |
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| 2026 | 2042 | | |
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| 2027 | 2043 | | (2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400. |
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| 2028 | 2044 | | |
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| 2029 | 2045 | | (3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family. |
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| 2030 | 2046 | | |
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| 2031 | 2047 | | (4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship. |
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| 2032 | 2048 | | |
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| 2033 | 2049 | | (B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
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| 2034 | 2050 | | |
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| 2035 | 2051 | | (5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval. |
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| 2036 | 2052 | | |
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| 2037 | 2053 | | (6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family. |
|---|
| 2038 | 2054 | | |
|---|
| 2039 | 2055 | | (7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years. |
|---|
| 2040 | 2056 | | |
|---|
| 2041 | 2057 | | (B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2042 | 2058 | | |
|---|
| 2043 | 2059 | | (C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 2044 | 2060 | | |
|---|
| 2045 | 2061 | | (ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5. |
|---|
| 2046 | 2062 | | |
|---|
| 2047 | 2063 | | (D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law. |
|---|
| 2048 | 2064 | | |
|---|
| 2049 | 2065 | | (E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following: |
|---|
| 2050 | 2066 | | |
|---|
| 2051 | 2067 | | (i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order. |
|---|
| 2052 | 2068 | | |
|---|
| 2053 | 2069 | | (ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision. |
|---|
| 2054 | 2070 | | |
|---|
| 2055 | 2071 | | (8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval. |
|---|
| 2056 | 2072 | | |
|---|
| 2057 | 2073 | | (9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2058 | 2074 | | |
|---|
| 2059 | 2075 | | (10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family. |
|---|
| 2060 | 2076 | | |
|---|
| 2061 | 2077 | | (11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal. |
|---|
| 2062 | 2078 | | |
|---|
| 2063 | 2079 | | (B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed. |
|---|
| 2064 | 2080 | | |
|---|
| 2065 | 2081 | | (d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family. |
|---|
| 2066 | 2082 | | |
|---|
| 2067 | 2083 | | (2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 2068 | 2084 | | |
|---|
| 2069 | 2085 | | (A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code. |
|---|
| 2070 | 2086 | | |
|---|
| 2071 | 2087 | | (II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2072 | 2088 | | |
|---|
| 2073 | 2089 | | (III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV). |
|---|
| 2074 | 2090 | | |
|---|
| 2075 | 2091 | | (IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2076 | 2092 | | |
|---|
| 2077 | 2093 | | (V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered. |
|---|
| 2078 | 2094 | | |
|---|
| 2079 | 2095 | | (ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized. |
|---|
| 2080 | 2096 | | |
|---|
| 2081 | 2097 | | (iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search. |
|---|
| 2082 | 2098 | | |
|---|
| 2083 | 2099 | | (B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children. |
|---|
| 2084 | 2100 | | |
|---|
| 2085 | 2101 | | (C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following: |
|---|
| 2086 | 2102 | | |
|---|
| 2087 | 2103 | | (i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights. |
|---|
| 2088 | 2104 | | |
|---|
| 2089 | 2105 | | (ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together. |
|---|
| 2090 | 2106 | | |
|---|
| 2091 | 2107 | | (iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 2092 | 2108 | | |
|---|
| 2093 | 2109 | | (3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 2094 | 2110 | | |
|---|
| 2095 | 2111 | | (A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h). |
|---|
| 2096 | 2112 | | |
|---|
| 2097 | 2113 | | (B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment. |
|---|
| 2098 | 2114 | | |
|---|
| 2099 | 2115 | | (i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval. |
|---|
| 2100 | 2116 | | |
|---|
| 2101 | 2117 | | (ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c). |
|---|
| 2102 | 2118 | | |
|---|
| 2103 | 2119 | | (iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 2104 | 2120 | | |
|---|
| 2105 | 2121 | | (C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child. |
|---|
| 2106 | 2122 | | |
|---|
| 2107 | 2123 | | (4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 2108 | 2124 | | |
|---|
| 2109 | 2125 | | (B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments. |
|---|
| 2110 | 2126 | | |
|---|
| 2111 | 2127 | | (C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays. |
|---|
| 2112 | 2128 | | |
|---|
| 2113 | 2129 | | (e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 2114 | 2130 | | |
|---|
| 2115 | 2131 | | (A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists. |
|---|
| 2116 | 2132 | | |
|---|
| 2117 | 2133 | | (B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment. |
|---|
| 2118 | 2134 | | |
|---|
| 2119 | 2135 | | (C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays. |
|---|
| 2120 | 2136 | | |
|---|
| 2121 | 2137 | | (2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists. |
|---|
| 2122 | 2138 | | |
|---|
| 2123 | 2139 | | (3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed. |
|---|
| 2124 | 2140 | | |
|---|
| 2125 | 2141 | | (4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9. |
|---|
| 2126 | 2142 | | |
|---|
| 2127 | 2143 | | (5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided. |
|---|
| 2128 | 2144 | | |
|---|
| 2129 | 2145 | | (6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1. |
|---|
| 2130 | 2146 | | |
|---|
| 2131 | 2147 | | (f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 2132 | 2148 | | |
|---|
| 2133 | 2149 | | (1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. |
|---|
| 2134 | 2150 | | |
|---|
| 2135 | 2151 | | (B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state. |
|---|
| 2136 | 2152 | | |
|---|
| 2137 | 2153 | | (2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval. |
|---|
| 2138 | 2154 | | |
|---|
| 2139 | 2155 | | (3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families. |
|---|
| 2140 | 2156 | | |
|---|
| 2141 | 2157 | | (4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family. |
|---|
| 2142 | 2158 | | |
|---|
| 2143 | 2159 | | (5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following: |
|---|
| 2144 | 2160 | | |
|---|
| 2145 | 2161 | | (A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families. |
|---|
| 2146 | 2162 | | |
|---|
| 2147 | 2163 | | (B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved. |
|---|
| 2148 | 2164 | | |
|---|
| 2149 | 2165 | | (6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following: |
|---|
| 2150 | 2166 | | |
|---|
| 2151 | 2167 | | (A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program. |
|---|
| 2152 | 2168 | | |
|---|
| 2153 | 2169 | | (B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes. |
|---|
| 2154 | 2170 | | |
|---|
| 2155 | 2171 | | (C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation. |
|---|
| 2156 | 2172 | | |
|---|
| 2157 | 2173 | | (D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties. |
|---|
| 2158 | 2174 | | |
|---|
| 2159 | 2175 | | (E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section. |
|---|
| 2160 | 2176 | | |
|---|
| 2161 | 2177 | | (7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61. |
|---|
| 2162 | 2178 | | |
|---|
| 2163 | 2179 | | (8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 2164 | 2180 | | |
|---|
| 2165 | 2181 | | (A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department. |
|---|
| 2166 | 2182 | | |
|---|
| 2167 | 2183 | | (B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6. |
|---|
| 2168 | 2184 | | |
|---|
| 2169 | 2185 | | (C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program. |
|---|
| 2170 | 2186 | | |
|---|
| 2171 | 2187 | | (g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 2172 | 2188 | | |
|---|
| 2173 | 2189 | | (1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan. |
|---|
| 2174 | 2190 | | |
|---|
| 2175 | 2191 | | (2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 2176 | 2192 | | |
|---|
| 2177 | 2193 | | (3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department. |
|---|
| 2178 | 2194 | | |
|---|
| 2179 | 2195 | | (4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family. |
|---|
| 2180 | 2196 | | |
|---|
| 2181 | 2197 | | (5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61: |
|---|
| 2182 | 2198 | | |
|---|
| 2183 | 2199 | | (i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes. |
|---|
| 2184 | 2200 | | |
|---|
| 2185 | 2201 | | (II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application. |
|---|
| 2186 | 2202 | | |
|---|
| 2187 | 2203 | | (ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families. |
|---|
| 2188 | 2204 | | |
|---|
| 2189 | 2205 | | (iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard. |
|---|
| 2190 | 2206 | | |
|---|
| 2191 | 2207 | | (iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order. |
|---|
| 2192 | 2208 | | |
|---|
| 2193 | 2209 | | (v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions. |
|---|
| 2194 | 2210 | | |
|---|
| 2195 | 2211 | | (B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6. |
|---|
| 2196 | 2212 | | |
|---|
| 2197 | 2213 | | (C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action. |
|---|
| 2198 | 2214 | | |
|---|
| 2199 | 2215 | | (6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2200 | 2216 | | |
|---|
| 2201 | 2217 | | (B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 2202 | 2218 | | |
|---|
| 2203 | 2219 | | (7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following: |
|---|
| 2204 | 2220 | | |
|---|
| 2205 | 2221 | | (A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed. |
|---|
| 2206 | 2222 | | |
|---|
| 2207 | 2223 | | (B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval. |
|---|
| 2208 | 2224 | | |
|---|
| 2209 | 2225 | | (C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes. |
|---|
| 2210 | 2226 | | |
|---|
| 2211 | 2227 | | (D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided. |
|---|
| 2212 | 2228 | | |
|---|
| 2213 | 2229 | | (8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home. |
|---|
| 2214 | 2230 | | |
|---|
| 2215 | 2231 | | (B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family. |
|---|
| 2216 | 2232 | | |
|---|
| 2217 | 2233 | | (C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member. |
|---|
| 2218 | 2234 | | |
|---|
| 2219 | 2235 | | (D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation. |
|---|
| 2220 | 2236 | | |
|---|
| 2221 | 2237 | | (9) Performing corrective action as required by the department. |
|---|
| 2222 | 2238 | | |
|---|
| 2223 | 2239 | | (10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified. |
|---|
| 2224 | 2240 | | |
|---|
| 2225 | 2241 | | (11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f). |
|---|
| 2226 | 2242 | | |
|---|
| 2227 | 2243 | | (12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system. |
|---|
| 2228 | 2244 | | |
|---|
| 2229 | 2245 | | (13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses: |
|---|
| 2230 | 2246 | | |
|---|
| 2231 | 2247 | | (A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems. |
|---|
| 2232 | 2248 | | |
|---|
| 2233 | 2249 | | (B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect. |
|---|
| 2234 | 2250 | | |
|---|
| 2235 | 2251 | | (C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem. |
|---|
| 2236 | 2252 | | |
|---|
| 2237 | 2253 | | (D) Health issues in foster care. |
|---|
| 2238 | 2254 | | |
|---|
| 2239 | 2255 | | (E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services. |
|---|
| 2240 | 2256 | | |
|---|
| 2241 | 2257 | | (F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status. |
|---|
| 2242 | 2258 | | |
|---|
| 2243 | 2259 | | (G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. |
|---|
| 2244 | 2260 | | |
|---|
| 2245 | 2261 | | (H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school. |
|---|
| 2246 | 2262 | | |
|---|
| 2247 | 2263 | | (I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children. |
|---|
| 2248 | 2264 | | |
|---|
| 2249 | 2265 | | (J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. |
|---|
| 2250 | 2266 | | |
|---|
| 2251 | 2267 | | (K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan. |
|---|
| 2252 | 2268 | | |
|---|
| 2253 | 2269 | | (L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501. |
|---|
| 2254 | 2270 | | |
|---|
| 2255 | 2271 | | (M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 2256 | 2272 | | |
|---|
| 2257 | 2273 | | (N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h). |
|---|
| 2258 | 2274 | | |
|---|
| 2259 | 2275 | | (O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5. |
|---|
| 2260 | 2276 | | |
|---|
| 2261 | 2277 | | (14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13). |
|---|
| 2262 | 2278 | | |
|---|
| 2263 | 2279 | | (h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following: |
|---|
| 2264 | 2280 | | |
|---|
| 2265 | 2281 | | (1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children. |
|---|
| 2266 | 2282 | | |
|---|
| 2267 | 2283 | | (2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children. |
|---|
| 2268 | 2284 | | |
|---|
| 2269 | 2285 | | (3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications. |
|---|
| 2270 | 2286 | | |
|---|
| 2271 | 2287 | | (4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions. |
|---|
| 2272 | 2288 | | |
|---|
| 2273 | 2289 | | (5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents. |
|---|
| 2274 | 2290 | | |
|---|
| 2275 | 2291 | | (6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs. |
|---|
| 2276 | 2292 | | |
|---|
| 2277 | 2293 | | (7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options. |
|---|
| 2278 | 2294 | | |
|---|
| 2279 | 2295 | | (i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section. |
|---|
| 2280 | 2296 | | |
|---|
| 2281 | 2297 | | (j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g). |
|---|
| 2282 | 2298 | | |
|---|
| 2283 | 2299 | | (2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2284 | 2300 | | |
|---|
| 2285 | 2301 | | (B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice. |
|---|
| 2286 | 2302 | | |
|---|
| 2287 | 2303 | | (3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation. |
|---|
| 2288 | 2304 | | |
|---|
| 2289 | 2305 | | (k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program. |
|---|
| 2290 | 2306 | | |
|---|
| 2291 | 2307 | | (l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care. |
|---|
| 2292 | 2308 | | |
|---|
| 2293 | 2309 | | (m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101. |
|---|
| 2294 | 2310 | | |
|---|
| 2295 | 2311 | | (n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section. |
|---|
| 2296 | 2312 | | |
|---|
| 2297 | 2313 | | (o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following: |
|---|
| 2298 | 2314 | | |
|---|
| 2299 | 2315 | | (1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act. |
|---|
| 2300 | 2316 | | |
|---|
| 2301 | 2317 | | (2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017. |
|---|
| 2302 | 2318 | | |
|---|
| 2303 | 2319 | | (p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017. |
|---|
| 2304 | 2320 | | |
|---|
| 2305 | 2321 | | (2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes. |
|---|
| 2306 | 2322 | | |
|---|
| 2307 | 2323 | | (ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2308 | 2324 | | |
|---|
| 2309 | 2325 | | (B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members. |
|---|
| 2310 | 2326 | | |
|---|
| 2311 | 2327 | | (ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 2312 | 2328 | | |
|---|
| 2313 | 2329 | | (C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable. |
|---|
| 2314 | 2330 | | |
|---|
| 2315 | 2331 | | (D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members. |
|---|
| 2316 | 2332 | | |
|---|
| 2317 | 2333 | | (3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county: |
|---|
| 2318 | 2334 | | |
|---|
| 2319 | 2335 | | (A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program. |
|---|
| 2320 | 2336 | | |
|---|
| 2321 | 2337 | | (B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020. |
|---|
| 2322 | 2338 | | |
|---|
| 2323 | 2339 | | (C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8). |
|---|
| 2324 | 2340 | | |
|---|
| 2325 | 2341 | | (4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members: |
|---|
| 2326 | 2342 | | |
|---|
| 2327 | 2343 | | (A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family. |
|---|
| 2328 | 2344 | | |
|---|
| 2329 | 2345 | | (B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation. |
|---|
| 2330 | 2346 | | |
|---|
| 2331 | 2347 | | (C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation. |
|---|
| 2332 | 2348 | | |
|---|
| 2333 | 2349 | | (5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions. |
|---|
| 2334 | 2350 | | |
|---|
| 2335 | 2351 | | (6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2336 | 2352 | | |
|---|
| 2337 | 2353 | | (B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice. |
|---|
| 2338 | 2354 | | |
|---|
| 2339 | 2355 | | (7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption. |
|---|
| 2340 | 2356 | | |
|---|
| 2341 | 2357 | | (8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code: |
|---|
| 2342 | 2358 | | |
|---|
| 2343 | 2359 | | (A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018. |
|---|
| 2344 | 2360 | | |
|---|
| 2345 | 2361 | | (B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process. |
|---|
| 2346 | 2362 | | |
|---|
| 2347 | 2363 | | (C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 2348 | 2364 | | |
|---|
| 2349 | 2365 | | (D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 2350 | 2366 | | |
|---|
| 2351 | 2367 | | (q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2352 | 2368 | | |
|---|
| 2353 | 2369 | | (r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes. |
|---|
| 2354 | 2370 | | |
|---|
| 2355 | 2371 | | (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval. |
|---|
| 2356 | 2372 | | |
|---|
| 2357 | 2373 | | (2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2358 | 2374 | | |
|---|
| 2359 | 2375 | | (3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency. |
|---|
| 2360 | 2376 | | |
|---|
| 2361 | 2377 | | (4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision. |
|---|
| 2362 | 2378 | | |
|---|
| 2363 | 2379 | | (5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017. |
|---|
| 2364 | 2380 | | |
|---|
| 2365 | 2381 | | (s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2366 | 2382 | | |
|---|
| 2367 | 2383 | | (t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency. |
|---|
| 2368 | 2384 | | |
|---|
| 2369 | 2385 | | SEC. 25.1. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency. |
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| 2370 | 2386 | | |
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| 2371 | 2387 | | SEC. 25.1. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read: |
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| 2372 | 2388 | | |
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| 2373 | 2389 | | ### SEC. 25.1. |
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| 2374 | 2390 | | |
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| 2375 | 2391 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency. |
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| 2376 | 2392 | | |
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| 2377 | 2393 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency. |
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| 2379 | 2395 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency. |
|---|
| 2380 | 2396 | | |
|---|
| 2381 | 2397 | | |
|---|
| 2382 | 2398 | | |
|---|
| 2383 | 2399 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families. |
|---|
| 2384 | 2400 | | |
|---|
| 2385 | 2401 | | (b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location. |
|---|
| 2386 | 2402 | | |
|---|
| 2387 | 2403 | | (2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department. |
|---|
| 2388 | 2404 | | |
|---|
| 2389 | 2405 | | (3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 2390 | 2406 | | |
|---|
| 2391 | 2407 | | (A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. |
|---|
| 2392 | 2408 | | |
|---|
| 2393 | 2409 | | (B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families. |
|---|
| 2394 | 2410 | | |
|---|
| 2395 | 2411 | | (C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties. |
|---|
| 2396 | 2412 | | |
|---|
| 2397 | 2413 | | (4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 2398 | 2414 | | |
|---|
| 2399 | 2415 | | (A) Submitting an implementation plan. |
|---|
| 2400 | 2416 | | |
|---|
| 2401 | 2417 | | (B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program. |
|---|
| 2402 | 2418 | | |
|---|
| 2403 | 2419 | | (C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan. |
|---|
| 2404 | 2420 | | |
|---|
| 2405 | 2421 | | (D) Training appropriate staff. |
|---|
| 2406 | 2422 | | |
|---|
| 2407 | 2423 | | (E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department. |
|---|
| 2408 | 2424 | | |
|---|
| 2409 | 2425 | | (5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program. |
|---|
| 2410 | 2426 | | |
|---|
| 2411 | 2427 | | (B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes. |
|---|
| 2412 | 2428 | | |
|---|
| 2413 | 2429 | | (6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program. |
|---|
| 2414 | 2430 | | |
|---|
| 2415 | 2431 | | (7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017. |
|---|
| 2416 | 2432 | | |
|---|
| 2417 | 2433 | | (c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following: |
|---|
| 2418 | 2434 | | |
|---|
| 2419 | 2435 | | (A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both. |
|---|
| 2420 | 2436 | | |
|---|
| 2421 | 2437 | | (B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking. |
|---|
| 2422 | 2438 | | |
|---|
| 2423 | 2439 | | (C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan. |
|---|
| 2424 | 2440 | | |
|---|
| 2425 | 2441 | | (D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 2426 | 2442 | | |
|---|
| 2427 | 2443 | | (E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 2428 | 2444 | | |
|---|
| 2429 | 2445 | | (2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400. |
|---|
| 2430 | 2446 | | |
|---|
| 2431 | 2447 | | (3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 2432 | 2448 | | |
|---|
| 2433 | 2449 | | (4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship. |
|---|
| 2434 | 2450 | | |
|---|
| 2435 | 2451 | | (B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 2436 | 2452 | | |
|---|
| 2437 | 2453 | | (ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause. |
|---|
| 2438 | 2454 | | |
|---|
| 2439 | 2455 | | (5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval. |
|---|
| 2440 | 2456 | | |
|---|
| 2441 | 2457 | | (6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family. |
|---|
| 2442 | 2458 | | |
|---|
| 2443 | 2459 | | (7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years. |
|---|
| 2444 | 2460 | | |
|---|
| 2445 | 2461 | | (B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2446 | 2462 | | |
|---|
| 2447 | 2463 | | (C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 2448 | 2464 | | |
|---|
| 2449 | 2465 | | (ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5. |
|---|
| 2450 | 2466 | | |
|---|
| 2451 | 2467 | | (D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law. |
|---|
| 2452 | 2468 | | |
|---|
| 2453 | 2469 | | (E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following: |
|---|
| 2454 | 2470 | | |
|---|
| 2455 | 2471 | | (i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order. |
|---|
| 2456 | 2472 | | |
|---|
| 2457 | 2473 | | (ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision. |
|---|
| 2458 | 2474 | | |
|---|
| 2459 | 2475 | | (8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval. |
|---|
| 2460 | 2476 | | |
|---|
| 2461 | 2477 | | (9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2462 | 2478 | | |
|---|
| 2463 | 2479 | | (10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family. |
|---|
| 2464 | 2480 | | |
|---|
| 2465 | 2481 | | (11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal. |
|---|
| 2466 | 2482 | | |
|---|
| 2467 | 2483 | | (B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed. |
|---|
| 2468 | 2484 | | |
|---|
| 2469 | 2485 | | (d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family. |
|---|
| 2470 | 2486 | | |
|---|
| 2471 | 2487 | | (2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 2472 | 2488 | | |
|---|
| 2473 | 2489 | | (A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code. |
|---|
| 2474 | 2490 | | |
|---|
| 2475 | 2491 | | (II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2476 | 2492 | | |
|---|
| 2477 | 2493 | | (III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV). |
|---|
| 2478 | 2494 | | |
|---|
| 2479 | 2495 | | (IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2480 | 2496 | | |
|---|
| 2481 | 2497 | | (V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered. |
|---|
| 2482 | 2498 | | |
|---|
| 2483 | 2499 | | (ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized. |
|---|
| 2484 | 2500 | | |
|---|
| 2485 | 2501 | | (iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search. |
|---|
| 2486 | 2502 | | |
|---|
| 2487 | 2503 | | (B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children. |
|---|
| 2488 | 2504 | | |
|---|
| 2489 | 2505 | | (C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following: |
|---|
| 2490 | 2506 | | |
|---|
| 2491 | 2507 | | (i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights. |
|---|
| 2492 | 2508 | | |
|---|
| 2493 | 2509 | | (ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together. |
|---|
| 2494 | 2510 | | |
|---|
| 2495 | 2511 | | (iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 2496 | 2512 | | |
|---|
| 2497 | 2513 | | (3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 2498 | 2514 | | |
|---|
| 2499 | 2515 | | (A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h). |
|---|
| 2500 | 2516 | | |
|---|
| 2501 | 2517 | | (B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment. |
|---|
| 2502 | 2518 | | |
|---|
| 2503 | 2519 | | (i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval. |
|---|
| 2504 | 2520 | | |
|---|
| 2505 | 2521 | | (ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c). |
|---|
| 2506 | 2522 | | |
|---|
| 2507 | 2523 | | (iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 2508 | 2524 | | |
|---|
| 2509 | 2525 | | (C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child. |
|---|
| 2510 | 2526 | | |
|---|
| 2511 | 2527 | | (4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 2512 | 2528 | | |
|---|
| 2513 | 2529 | | (B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments. |
|---|
| 2514 | 2530 | | |
|---|
| 2515 | 2531 | | (C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays. |
|---|
| 2516 | 2532 | | |
|---|
| 2517 | 2533 | | (e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 2518 | 2534 | | |
|---|
| 2519 | 2535 | | (A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists. |
|---|
| 2520 | 2536 | | |
|---|
| 2521 | 2537 | | (B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment. |
|---|
| 2522 | 2538 | | |
|---|
| 2523 | 2539 | | (C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays. |
|---|
| 2524 | 2540 | | |
|---|
| 2525 | 2541 | | (2) The home environment, permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists. |
|---|
| 2526 | 2542 | | |
|---|
| 2527 | 2543 | | (3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed. |
|---|
| 2528 | 2544 | | |
|---|
| 2529 | 2545 | | (4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9. |
|---|
| 2530 | 2546 | | |
|---|
| 2531 | 2547 | | (5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided. |
|---|
| 2532 | 2548 | | |
|---|
| 2533 | 2549 | | (6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1. |
|---|
| 2534 | 2550 | | |
|---|
| 2535 | 2551 | | (f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 2536 | 2552 | | |
|---|
| 2537 | 2553 | | (1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. |
|---|
| 2538 | 2554 | | |
|---|
| 2539 | 2555 | | (B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state. |
|---|
| 2540 | 2556 | | |
|---|
| 2541 | 2557 | | (2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval. |
|---|
| 2542 | 2558 | | |
|---|
| 2543 | 2559 | | (3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families. |
|---|
| 2544 | 2560 | | |
|---|
| 2545 | 2561 | | (4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family. |
|---|
| 2546 | 2562 | | |
|---|
| 2547 | 2563 | | (5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following: |
|---|
| 2548 | 2564 | | |
|---|
| 2549 | 2565 | | (A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families. |
|---|
| 2550 | 2566 | | |
|---|
| 2551 | 2567 | | (B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved. |
|---|
| 2552 | 2568 | | |
|---|
| 2553 | 2569 | | (6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following: |
|---|
| 2554 | 2570 | | |
|---|
| 2555 | 2571 | | (A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program. |
|---|
| 2556 | 2572 | | |
|---|
| 2557 | 2573 | | (B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes. |
|---|
| 2558 | 2574 | | |
|---|
| 2559 | 2575 | | (C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation. |
|---|
| 2560 | 2576 | | |
|---|
| 2561 | 2577 | | (D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties. |
|---|
| 2562 | 2578 | | |
|---|
| 2563 | 2579 | | (E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section. |
|---|
| 2564 | 2580 | | |
|---|
| 2565 | 2581 | | (7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61. |
|---|
| 2566 | 2582 | | |
|---|
| 2567 | 2583 | | (8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 2568 | 2584 | | |
|---|
| 2569 | 2585 | | (A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department. |
|---|
| 2570 | 2586 | | |
|---|
| 2571 | 2587 | | (B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6. |
|---|
| 2572 | 2588 | | |
|---|
| 2573 | 2589 | | (C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program. |
|---|
| 2574 | 2590 | | |
|---|
| 2575 | 2591 | | (g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 2576 | 2592 | | |
|---|
| 2577 | 2593 | | (1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan. |
|---|
| 2578 | 2594 | | |
|---|
| 2579 | 2595 | | (2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 2580 | 2596 | | |
|---|
| 2581 | 2597 | | (3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department. |
|---|
| 2582 | 2598 | | |
|---|
| 2583 | 2599 | | (4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family. |
|---|
| 2584 | 2600 | | |
|---|
| 2585 | 2601 | | (5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61: |
|---|
| 2586 | 2602 | | |
|---|
| 2587 | 2603 | | (i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes. |
|---|
| 2588 | 2604 | | |
|---|
| 2589 | 2605 | | (II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application. |
|---|
| 2590 | 2606 | | |
|---|
| 2591 | 2607 | | (ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families. |
|---|
| 2592 | 2608 | | |
|---|
| 2593 | 2609 | | (iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard. |
|---|
| 2594 | 2610 | | |
|---|
| 2595 | 2611 | | (iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order. |
|---|
| 2596 | 2612 | | |
|---|
| 2597 | 2613 | | (v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions. |
|---|
| 2598 | 2614 | | |
|---|
| 2599 | 2615 | | (B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6. |
|---|
| 2600 | 2616 | | |
|---|
| 2601 | 2617 | | (C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action. |
|---|
| 2602 | 2618 | | |
|---|
| 2603 | 2619 | | (6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family day care home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2604 | 2620 | | |
|---|
| 2605 | 2621 | | (B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 2606 | 2622 | | |
|---|
| 2607 | 2623 | | (7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following: |
|---|
| 2608 | 2624 | | |
|---|
| 2609 | 2625 | | (A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed. |
|---|
| 2610 | 2626 | | |
|---|
| 2611 | 2627 | | (B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval. |
|---|
| 2612 | 2628 | | |
|---|
| 2613 | 2629 | | (C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes. |
|---|
| 2614 | 2630 | | |
|---|
| 2615 | 2631 | | (D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided. |
|---|
| 2616 | 2632 | | |
|---|
| 2617 | 2633 | | (8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home. |
|---|
| 2618 | 2634 | | |
|---|
| 2619 | 2635 | | (B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family. |
|---|
| 2620 | 2636 | | |
|---|
| 2621 | 2637 | | (C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member. |
|---|
| 2622 | 2638 | | |
|---|
| 2623 | 2639 | | (D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation. |
|---|
| 2624 | 2640 | | |
|---|
| 2625 | 2641 | | (9) Performing corrective action as required by the department. |
|---|
| 2626 | 2642 | | |
|---|
| 2627 | 2643 | | (10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified. |
|---|
| 2628 | 2644 | | |
|---|
| 2629 | 2645 | | (11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f). |
|---|
| 2630 | 2646 | | |
|---|
| 2631 | 2647 | | (12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system. |
|---|
| 2632 | 2648 | | |
|---|
| 2633 | 2649 | | (13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses: |
|---|
| 2634 | 2650 | | |
|---|
| 2635 | 2651 | | (A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems. |
|---|
| 2636 | 2652 | | |
|---|
| 2637 | 2653 | | (B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect. |
|---|
| 2638 | 2654 | | |
|---|
| 2639 | 2655 | | (C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem. |
|---|
| 2640 | 2656 | | |
|---|
| 2641 | 2657 | | (D) Health issues in foster care. |
|---|
| 2642 | 2658 | | |
|---|
| 2643 | 2659 | | (E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services. |
|---|
| 2644 | 2660 | | |
|---|
| 2645 | 2661 | | (F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status. |
|---|
| 2646 | 2662 | | |
|---|
| 2647 | 2663 | | (G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. |
|---|
| 2648 | 2664 | | |
|---|
| 2649 | 2665 | | (H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school. |
|---|
| 2650 | 2666 | | |
|---|
| 2651 | 2667 | | (I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children. |
|---|
| 2652 | 2668 | | |
|---|
| 2653 | 2669 | | (J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. |
|---|
| 2654 | 2670 | | |
|---|
| 2655 | 2671 | | (K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan. |
|---|
| 2656 | 2672 | | |
|---|
| 2657 | 2673 | | (L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501. |
|---|
| 2658 | 2674 | | |
|---|
| 2659 | 2675 | | (M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 2660 | 2676 | | |
|---|
| 2661 | 2677 | | (N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h). |
|---|
| 2662 | 2678 | | |
|---|
| 2663 | 2679 | | (O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5. |
|---|
| 2664 | 2680 | | |
|---|
| 2665 | 2681 | | (14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13). |
|---|
| 2666 | 2682 | | |
|---|
| 2667 | 2683 | | (h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following: |
|---|
| 2668 | 2684 | | |
|---|
| 2669 | 2685 | | (1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children. |
|---|
| 2670 | 2686 | | |
|---|
| 2671 | 2687 | | (2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children. |
|---|
| 2672 | 2688 | | |
|---|
| 2673 | 2689 | | (3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications. |
|---|
| 2674 | 2690 | | |
|---|
| 2675 | 2691 | | (4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions. |
|---|
| 2676 | 2692 | | |
|---|
| 2677 | 2693 | | (5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents. |
|---|
| 2678 | 2694 | | |
|---|
| 2679 | 2695 | | (6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs. |
|---|
| 2680 | 2696 | | |
|---|
| 2681 | 2697 | | (7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options. |
|---|
| 2682 | 2698 | | |
|---|
| 2683 | 2699 | | (i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section. |
|---|
| 2684 | 2700 | | |
|---|
| 2685 | 2701 | | (j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g). |
|---|
| 2686 | 2702 | | |
|---|
| 2687 | 2703 | | (2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2688 | 2704 | | |
|---|
| 2689 | 2705 | | (B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice. |
|---|
| 2690 | 2706 | | |
|---|
| 2691 | 2707 | | (3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation. |
|---|
| 2692 | 2708 | | |
|---|
| 2693 | 2709 | | (k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program. |
|---|
| 2694 | 2710 | | |
|---|
| 2695 | 2711 | | (l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care. |
|---|
| 2696 | 2712 | | |
|---|
| 2697 | 2713 | | (m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101. |
|---|
| 2698 | 2714 | | |
|---|
| 2699 | 2715 | | (n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section. |
|---|
| 2700 | 2716 | | |
|---|
| 2701 | 2717 | | (o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following: |
|---|
| 2702 | 2718 | | |
|---|
| 2703 | 2719 | | (1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act. |
|---|
| 2704 | 2720 | | |
|---|
| 2705 | 2721 | | (2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017. |
|---|
| 2706 | 2722 | | |
|---|
| 2707 | 2723 | | (p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017. |
|---|
| 2708 | 2724 | | |
|---|
| 2709 | 2725 | | (2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes. |
|---|
| 2710 | 2726 | | |
|---|
| 2711 | 2727 | | (ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2712 | 2728 | | |
|---|
| 2713 | 2729 | | (B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members. |
|---|
| 2714 | 2730 | | |
|---|
| 2715 | 2731 | | (ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 2716 | 2732 | | |
|---|
| 2717 | 2733 | | (C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable. |
|---|
| 2718 | 2734 | | |
|---|
| 2719 | 2735 | | (D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members. |
|---|
| 2720 | 2736 | | |
|---|
| 2721 | 2737 | | (3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county: |
|---|
| 2722 | 2738 | | |
|---|
| 2723 | 2739 | | (A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program. |
|---|
| 2724 | 2740 | | |
|---|
| 2725 | 2741 | | (B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020. |
|---|
| 2726 | 2742 | | |
|---|
| 2727 | 2743 | | (C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8). |
|---|
| 2728 | 2744 | | |
|---|
| 2729 | 2745 | | (4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members: |
|---|
| 2730 | 2746 | | |
|---|
| 2731 | 2747 | | (A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family. |
|---|
| 2732 | 2748 | | |
|---|
| 2733 | 2749 | | (B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation. |
|---|
| 2734 | 2750 | | |
|---|
| 2735 | 2751 | | (C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation. |
|---|
| 2736 | 2752 | | |
|---|
| 2737 | 2753 | | (5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions. |
|---|
| 2738 | 2754 | | |
|---|
| 2739 | 2755 | | (6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2740 | 2756 | | |
|---|
| 2741 | 2757 | | (B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice. |
|---|
| 2742 | 2758 | | |
|---|
| 2743 | 2759 | | (7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption. |
|---|
| 2744 | 2760 | | |
|---|
| 2745 | 2761 | | (8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code: |
|---|
| 2746 | 2762 | | |
|---|
| 2747 | 2763 | | (A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018. |
|---|
| 2748 | 2764 | | |
|---|
| 2749 | 2765 | | (B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process. |
|---|
| 2750 | 2766 | | |
|---|
| 2751 | 2767 | | (C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 2752 | 2768 | | |
|---|
| 2753 | 2769 | | (D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 2754 | 2770 | | |
|---|
| 2755 | 2771 | | (q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2756 | 2772 | | |
|---|
| 2757 | 2773 | | (r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes. |
|---|
| 2758 | 2774 | | |
|---|
| 2759 | 2775 | | (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval. |
|---|
| 2760 | 2776 | | |
|---|
| 2761 | 2777 | | (2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2762 | 2778 | | |
|---|
| 2763 | 2779 | | (3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency. |
|---|
| 2764 | 2780 | | |
|---|
| 2765 | 2781 | | (4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision. |
|---|
| 2766 | 2782 | | |
|---|
| 2767 | 2783 | | (5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017. |
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| 2768 | 2784 | | |
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| 2769 | 2785 | | (s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
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| 2770 | 2786 | | |
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| 2771 | 2787 | | (t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency. |
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| 2772 | 2788 | | |
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| 2773 | 2789 | | SEC. 25.2. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed. |
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| 2774 | 2790 | | |
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| 2775 | 2791 | | SEC. 25.2. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read: |
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| 2776 | 2792 | | |
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| 2777 | 2793 | | ### SEC. 25.2. |
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| 2778 | 2794 | | |
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| 2779 | 2795 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed. |
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| 2781 | 2797 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed. |
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| 2783 | 2799 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed. |
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| 2784 | 2800 | | |
|---|
| 2785 | 2801 | | |
|---|
| 2786 | 2802 | | |
|---|
| 2787 | 2803 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families. |
|---|
| 2788 | 2804 | | |
|---|
| 2789 | 2805 | | (b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location. |
|---|
| 2790 | 2806 | | |
|---|
| 2791 | 2807 | | (2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department. |
|---|
| 2792 | 2808 | | |
|---|
| 2793 | 2809 | | (3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 2794 | 2810 | | |
|---|
| 2795 | 2811 | | (A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. |
|---|
| 2796 | 2812 | | |
|---|
| 2797 | 2813 | | (B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families. |
|---|
| 2798 | 2814 | | |
|---|
| 2799 | 2815 | | (C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties. |
|---|
| 2800 | 2816 | | |
|---|
| 2801 | 2817 | | (4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 2802 | 2818 | | |
|---|
| 2803 | 2819 | | (A) Submitting an implementation plan. |
|---|
| 2804 | 2820 | | |
|---|
| 2805 | 2821 | | (B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program. |
|---|
| 2806 | 2822 | | |
|---|
| 2807 | 2823 | | (C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan. |
|---|
| 2808 | 2824 | | |
|---|
| 2809 | 2825 | | (D) Training appropriate staff. |
|---|
| 2810 | 2826 | | |
|---|
| 2811 | 2827 | | (E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department. |
|---|
| 2812 | 2828 | | |
|---|
| 2813 | 2829 | | (5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program. |
|---|
| 2814 | 2830 | | |
|---|
| 2815 | 2831 | | (B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes. |
|---|
| 2816 | 2832 | | |
|---|
| 2817 | 2833 | | (6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program. |
|---|
| 2818 | 2834 | | |
|---|
| 2819 | 2835 | | (7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017. |
|---|
| 2820 | 2836 | | |
|---|
| 2821 | 2837 | | (c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following: |
|---|
| 2822 | 2838 | | |
|---|
| 2823 | 2839 | | (A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both. |
|---|
| 2824 | 2840 | | |
|---|
| 2825 | 2841 | | (B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking. |
|---|
| 2826 | 2842 | | |
|---|
| 2827 | 2843 | | (C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan. |
|---|
| 2828 | 2844 | | |
|---|
| 2829 | 2845 | | (D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 2830 | 2846 | | |
|---|
| 2831 | 2847 | | (E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 2832 | 2848 | | |
|---|
| 2833 | 2849 | | (2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400. |
|---|
| 2834 | 2850 | | |
|---|
| 2835 | 2851 | | (3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 2836 | 2852 | | |
|---|
| 2837 | 2853 | | (4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship. |
|---|
| 2838 | 2854 | | |
|---|
| 2839 | 2855 | | (B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 2840 | 2856 | | |
|---|
| 2841 | 2857 | | (5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval. |
|---|
| 2842 | 2858 | | |
|---|
| 2843 | 2859 | | (6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family. |
|---|
| 2844 | 2860 | | |
|---|
| 2845 | 2861 | | (7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years. |
|---|
| 2846 | 2862 | | |
|---|
| 2847 | 2863 | | (B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2848 | 2864 | | |
|---|
| 2849 | 2865 | | (C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 2850 | 2866 | | |
|---|
| 2851 | 2867 | | (ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5. |
|---|
| 2852 | 2868 | | |
|---|
| 2853 | 2869 | | (D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law. |
|---|
| 2854 | 2870 | | |
|---|
| 2855 | 2871 | | (E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following: |
|---|
| 2856 | 2872 | | |
|---|
| 2857 | 2873 | | (i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order. |
|---|
| 2858 | 2874 | | |
|---|
| 2859 | 2875 | | (ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision. |
|---|
| 2860 | 2876 | | |
|---|
| 2861 | 2877 | | (8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval. |
|---|
| 2862 | 2878 | | |
|---|
| 2863 | 2879 | | (9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2864 | 2880 | | |
|---|
| 2865 | 2881 | | (10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family. |
|---|
| 2866 | 2882 | | |
|---|
| 2867 | 2883 | | (11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal. |
|---|
| 2868 | 2884 | | |
|---|
| 2869 | 2885 | | (B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed. |
|---|
| 2870 | 2886 | | |
|---|
| 2871 | 2887 | | (d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family. |
|---|
| 2872 | 2888 | | |
|---|
| 2873 | 2889 | | (2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 2874 | 2890 | | |
|---|
| 2875 | 2891 | | (A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code. |
|---|
| 2876 | 2892 | | |
|---|
| 2877 | 2893 | | (II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2878 | 2894 | | |
|---|
| 2879 | 2895 | | (III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV). |
|---|
| 2880 | 2896 | | |
|---|
| 2881 | 2897 | | (IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 2882 | 2898 | | |
|---|
| 2883 | 2899 | | (V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered. |
|---|
| 2884 | 2900 | | |
|---|
| 2885 | 2901 | | (ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized. |
|---|
| 2886 | 2902 | | |
|---|
| 2887 | 2903 | | (iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search. |
|---|
| 2888 | 2904 | | |
|---|
| 2889 | 2905 | | (B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children. |
|---|
| 2890 | 2906 | | |
|---|
| 2891 | 2907 | | (C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following: |
|---|
| 2892 | 2908 | | |
|---|
| 2893 | 2909 | | (i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights. |
|---|
| 2894 | 2910 | | |
|---|
| 2895 | 2911 | | (ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together. |
|---|
| 2896 | 2912 | | |
|---|
| 2897 | 2913 | | (iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 2898 | 2914 | | |
|---|
| 2899 | 2915 | | (3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 2900 | 2916 | | |
|---|
| 2901 | 2917 | | (A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h). |
|---|
| 2902 | 2918 | | |
|---|
| 2903 | 2919 | | (B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment. |
|---|
| 2904 | 2920 | | |
|---|
| 2905 | 2921 | | (i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval. |
|---|
| 2906 | 2922 | | |
|---|
| 2907 | 2923 | | (ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c). |
|---|
| 2908 | 2924 | | |
|---|
| 2909 | 2925 | | (iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 2910 | 2926 | | |
|---|
| 2911 | 2927 | | (C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child. |
|---|
| 2912 | 2928 | | |
|---|
| 2913 | 2929 | | (4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 2914 | 2930 | | |
|---|
| 2915 | 2931 | | (B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments. |
|---|
| 2916 | 2932 | | |
|---|
| 2917 | 2933 | | (C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays. |
|---|
| 2918 | 2934 | | |
|---|
| 2919 | 2935 | | (e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 2920 | 2936 | | |
|---|
| 2921 | 2937 | | (A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists. |
|---|
| 2922 | 2938 | | |
|---|
| 2923 | 2939 | | (B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment. |
|---|
| 2924 | 2940 | | |
|---|
| 2925 | 2941 | | (C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays. |
|---|
| 2926 | 2942 | | |
|---|
| 2927 | 2943 | | (2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists. |
|---|
| 2928 | 2944 | | |
|---|
| 2929 | 2945 | | (3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed. |
|---|
| 2930 | 2946 | | |
|---|
| 2931 | 2947 | | (4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9. |
|---|
| 2932 | 2948 | | |
|---|
| 2933 | 2949 | | (5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided. |
|---|
| 2934 | 2950 | | |
|---|
| 2935 | 2951 | | (6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1. |
|---|
| 2936 | 2952 | | |
|---|
| 2937 | 2953 | | (f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 2938 | 2954 | | |
|---|
| 2939 | 2955 | | (1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. |
|---|
| 2940 | 2956 | | |
|---|
| 2941 | 2957 | | (B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state. |
|---|
| 2942 | 2958 | | |
|---|
| 2943 | 2959 | | (2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval. |
|---|
| 2944 | 2960 | | |
|---|
| 2945 | 2961 | | (3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families. |
|---|
| 2946 | 2962 | | |
|---|
| 2947 | 2963 | | (4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family. |
|---|
| 2948 | 2964 | | |
|---|
| 2949 | 2965 | | (5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following: |
|---|
| 2950 | 2966 | | |
|---|
| 2951 | 2967 | | (A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families. |
|---|
| 2952 | 2968 | | |
|---|
| 2953 | 2969 | | (B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved. |
|---|
| 2954 | 2970 | | |
|---|
| 2955 | 2971 | | (6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following: |
|---|
| 2956 | 2972 | | |
|---|
| 2957 | 2973 | | (A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program. |
|---|
| 2958 | 2974 | | |
|---|
| 2959 | 2975 | | (B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes. |
|---|
| 2960 | 2976 | | |
|---|
| 2961 | 2977 | | (C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation. |
|---|
| 2962 | 2978 | | |
|---|
| 2963 | 2979 | | (D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties. |
|---|
| 2964 | 2980 | | |
|---|
| 2965 | 2981 | | (E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section. |
|---|
| 2966 | 2982 | | |
|---|
| 2967 | 2983 | | (7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61. |
|---|
| 2968 | 2984 | | |
|---|
| 2969 | 2985 | | (8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 2970 | 2986 | | |
|---|
| 2971 | 2987 | | (A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department. |
|---|
| 2972 | 2988 | | |
|---|
| 2973 | 2989 | | (B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6. |
|---|
| 2974 | 2990 | | |
|---|
| 2975 | 2991 | | (C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program. |
|---|
| 2976 | 2992 | | |
|---|
| 2977 | 2993 | | (g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 2978 | 2994 | | |
|---|
| 2979 | 2995 | | (1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan. |
|---|
| 2980 | 2996 | | |
|---|
| 2981 | 2997 | | (2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 2982 | 2998 | | |
|---|
| 2983 | 2999 | | (3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department. |
|---|
| 2984 | 3000 | | |
|---|
| 2985 | 3001 | | (4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family. |
|---|
| 2986 | 3002 | | |
|---|
| 2987 | 3003 | | (5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61: |
|---|
| 2988 | 3004 | | |
|---|
| 2989 | 3005 | | (i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes. |
|---|
| 2990 | 3006 | | |
|---|
| 2991 | 3007 | | (II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application. |
|---|
| 2992 | 3008 | | |
|---|
| 2993 | 3009 | | (ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families. |
|---|
| 2994 | 3010 | | |
|---|
| 2995 | 3011 | | (iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard. |
|---|
| 2996 | 3012 | | |
|---|
| 2997 | 3013 | | (iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order. |
|---|
| 2998 | 3014 | | |
|---|
| 2999 | 3015 | | (v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions. |
|---|
| 3000 | 3016 | | |
|---|
| 3001 | 3017 | | (B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6. |
|---|
| 3002 | 3018 | | |
|---|
| 3003 | 3019 | | (C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action. |
|---|
| 3004 | 3020 | | |
|---|
| 3005 | 3021 | | (6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3006 | 3022 | | |
|---|
| 3007 | 3023 | | (B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 3008 | 3024 | | |
|---|
| 3009 | 3025 | | (7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following: |
|---|
| 3010 | 3026 | | |
|---|
| 3011 | 3027 | | (A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed. |
|---|
| 3012 | 3028 | | |
|---|
| 3013 | 3029 | | (B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval. |
|---|
| 3014 | 3030 | | |
|---|
| 3015 | 3031 | | (C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes. |
|---|
| 3016 | 3032 | | |
|---|
| 3017 | 3033 | | (D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided. |
|---|
| 3018 | 3034 | | |
|---|
| 3019 | 3035 | | (8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home. |
|---|
| 3020 | 3036 | | |
|---|
| 3021 | 3037 | | (B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family. |
|---|
| 3022 | 3038 | | |
|---|
| 3023 | 3039 | | (C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member. |
|---|
| 3024 | 3040 | | |
|---|
| 3025 | 3041 | | (D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation. |
|---|
| 3026 | 3042 | | |
|---|
| 3027 | 3043 | | (9) Performing corrective action as required by the department. |
|---|
| 3028 | 3044 | | |
|---|
| 3029 | 3045 | | (10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified. |
|---|
| 3030 | 3046 | | |
|---|
| 3031 | 3047 | | (11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f). |
|---|
| 3032 | 3048 | | |
|---|
| 3033 | 3049 | | (12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system. |
|---|
| 3034 | 3050 | | |
|---|
| 3035 | 3051 | | (13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses: |
|---|
| 3036 | 3052 | | |
|---|
| 3037 | 3053 | | (A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems. |
|---|
| 3038 | 3054 | | |
|---|
| 3039 | 3055 | | (B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect. |
|---|
| 3040 | 3056 | | |
|---|
| 3041 | 3057 | | (C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem. |
|---|
| 3042 | 3058 | | |
|---|
| 3043 | 3059 | | (D) Health issues in foster care. |
|---|
| 3044 | 3060 | | |
|---|
| 3045 | 3061 | | (E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services. |
|---|
| 3046 | 3062 | | |
|---|
| 3047 | 3063 | | (F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status. |
|---|
| 3048 | 3064 | | |
|---|
| 3049 | 3065 | | (G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. |
|---|
| 3050 | 3066 | | |
|---|
| 3051 | 3067 | | (H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school. |
|---|
| 3052 | 3068 | | |
|---|
| 3053 | 3069 | | (I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children. |
|---|
| 3054 | 3070 | | |
|---|
| 3055 | 3071 | | (J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. |
|---|
| 3056 | 3072 | | |
|---|
| 3057 | 3073 | | (K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan. |
|---|
| 3058 | 3074 | | |
|---|
| 3059 | 3075 | | (L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501. |
|---|
| 3060 | 3076 | | |
|---|
| 3061 | 3077 | | (M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 3062 | 3078 | | |
|---|
| 3063 | 3079 | | (N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h). |
|---|
| 3064 | 3080 | | |
|---|
| 3065 | 3081 | | (O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5. |
|---|
| 3066 | 3082 | | |
|---|
| 3067 | 3083 | | (14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13). |
|---|
| 3068 | 3084 | | |
|---|
| 3069 | 3085 | | (h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following: |
|---|
| 3070 | 3086 | | |
|---|
| 3071 | 3087 | | (1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children. |
|---|
| 3072 | 3088 | | |
|---|
| 3073 | 3089 | | (2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children. |
|---|
| 3074 | 3090 | | |
|---|
| 3075 | 3091 | | (3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications. |
|---|
| 3076 | 3092 | | |
|---|
| 3077 | 3093 | | (4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions. |
|---|
| 3078 | 3094 | | |
|---|
| 3079 | 3095 | | (5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents. |
|---|
| 3080 | 3096 | | |
|---|
| 3081 | 3097 | | (6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs. |
|---|
| 3082 | 3098 | | |
|---|
| 3083 | 3099 | | (7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options. |
|---|
| 3084 | 3100 | | |
|---|
| 3085 | 3101 | | (i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section. |
|---|
| 3086 | 3102 | | |
|---|
| 3087 | 3103 | | (j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g). |
|---|
| 3088 | 3104 | | |
|---|
| 3089 | 3105 | | (2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3090 | 3106 | | |
|---|
| 3091 | 3107 | | (B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice. |
|---|
| 3092 | 3108 | | |
|---|
| 3093 | 3109 | | (3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation. |
|---|
| 3094 | 3110 | | |
|---|
| 3095 | 3111 | | (k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program. |
|---|
| 3096 | 3112 | | |
|---|
| 3097 | 3113 | | (l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care. |
|---|
| 3098 | 3114 | | |
|---|
| 3099 | 3115 | | (m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101. |
|---|
| 3100 | 3116 | | |
|---|
| 3101 | 3117 | | (n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section. |
|---|
| 3102 | 3118 | | |
|---|
| 3103 | 3119 | | (o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following: |
|---|
| 3104 | 3120 | | |
|---|
| 3105 | 3121 | | (1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act. |
|---|
| 3106 | 3122 | | |
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| 3107 | 3123 | | (2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017. |
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| 3108 | 3124 | | |
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| 3109 | 3125 | | (p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017. |
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| 3110 | 3126 | | |
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| 3111 | 3127 | | (2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes. |
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| 3112 | 3128 | | |
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| 3113 | 3129 | | (ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code. |
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| 3114 | 3130 | | |
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| 3115 | 3131 | | (B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members. |
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| 3116 | 3132 | | |
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| 3117 | 3133 | | (ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section. |
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| 3118 | 3134 | | |
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| 3119 | 3135 | | (C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable. |
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| 3120 | 3136 | | |
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| 3121 | 3137 | | (D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members. |
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| 3122 | 3138 | | |
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| 3123 | 3139 | | (3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county: |
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| 3124 | 3140 | | |
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| 3125 | 3141 | | (A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program. |
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| 3126 | 3142 | | |
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| 3127 | 3143 | | (B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020. |
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| 3128 | 3144 | | |
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| 3129 | 3145 | | (C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8). |
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| 3130 | 3146 | | |
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| 3131 | 3147 | | (4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members: |
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| 3132 | 3148 | | |
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| 3133 | 3149 | | (A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family. |
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| 3134 | 3150 | | |
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| 3135 | 3151 | | (B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation. |
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| 3136 | 3152 | | |
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| 3137 | 3153 | | (C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation. |
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| 3138 | 3154 | | |
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| 3139 | 3155 | | (5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions. |
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| 3140 | 3156 | | |
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| 3141 | 3157 | | (6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
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| 3142 | 3158 | | |
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| 3143 | 3159 | | (B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice. |
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| 3144 | 3160 | | |
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| 3145 | 3161 | | (7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption. |
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| 3146 | 3162 | | |
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| 3147 | 3163 | | (8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code: |
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| 3148 | 3164 | | |
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| 3149 | 3165 | | (A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018. |
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| 3150 | 3166 | | |
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| 3151 | 3167 | | (B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process. |
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| 3152 | 3168 | | |
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| 3153 | 3169 | | (C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family. |
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| 3154 | 3170 | | |
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| 3155 | 3171 | | (D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. |
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| 3156 | 3172 | | |
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| 3157 | 3173 | | (q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
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| 3158 | 3174 | | |
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| 3159 | 3175 | | (r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes. |
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| 3160 | 3176 | | |
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| 3161 | 3177 | | (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval. |
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| 3162 | 3178 | | |
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| 3163 | 3179 | | (2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
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| 3164 | 3180 | | |
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| 3165 | 3181 | | (3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency. |
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| 3166 | 3182 | | |
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| 3167 | 3183 | | (4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision. |
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| 3168 | 3184 | | |
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| 3169 | 3185 | | (5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017. |
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| 3170 | 3186 | | |
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| 3171 | 3187 | | (s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
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| 3172 | 3188 | | |
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| 3173 | 3189 | | (t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency. |
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| 3174 | 3190 | | |
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| 3175 | 3191 | | (u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed. |
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| 3176 | 3192 | | |
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| 3177 | 3193 | | SEC. 25.3. Section 16519.5 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics:(i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation.(ii) Harm reduction.(iii) Trauma-informed care.(iv) Available county and state resources.(v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation.(B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph.(C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited.(D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means.(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021. |
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| 3179 | 3195 | | SEC. 25.3. Section 16519.5 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read: |
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| 3180 | 3196 | | |
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| 3181 | 3197 | | ### SEC. 25.3. |
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| 3182 | 3198 | | |
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| 3183 | 3199 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics:(i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation.(ii) Harm reduction.(iii) Trauma-informed care.(iv) Available county and state resources.(v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation.(B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph.(C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited.(D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means.(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021. |
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| 3185 | 3201 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics:(i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation.(ii) Harm reduction.(iii) Trauma-informed care.(iv) Available county and state resources.(v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation.(B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph.(C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited.(D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means.(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021. |
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| 3186 | 3202 | | |
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| 3187 | 3203 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics:(i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation.(ii) Harm reduction.(iii) Trauma-informed care.(iv) Available county and state resources.(v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation.(B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph.(C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited.(D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means.(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021. |
|---|
| 3188 | 3204 | | |
|---|
| 3189 | 3205 | | |
|---|
| 3190 | 3206 | | |
|---|
| 3191 | 3207 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families. |
|---|
| 3192 | 3208 | | |
|---|
| 3193 | 3209 | | (b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location. |
|---|
| 3194 | 3210 | | |
|---|
| 3195 | 3211 | | (2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department. |
|---|
| 3196 | 3212 | | |
|---|
| 3197 | 3213 | | (3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 3198 | 3214 | | |
|---|
| 3199 | 3215 | | (A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. |
|---|
| 3200 | 3216 | | |
|---|
| 3201 | 3217 | | (B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families. |
|---|
| 3202 | 3218 | | |
|---|
| 3203 | 3219 | | (C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties. |
|---|
| 3204 | 3220 | | |
|---|
| 3205 | 3221 | | (4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 3206 | 3222 | | |
|---|
| 3207 | 3223 | | (A) Submitting an implementation plan. |
|---|
| 3208 | 3224 | | |
|---|
| 3209 | 3225 | | (B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program. |
|---|
| 3210 | 3226 | | |
|---|
| 3211 | 3227 | | (C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan. |
|---|
| 3212 | 3228 | | |
|---|
| 3213 | 3229 | | (D) Training appropriate staff. |
|---|
| 3214 | 3230 | | |
|---|
| 3215 | 3231 | | (E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department. |
|---|
| 3216 | 3232 | | |
|---|
| 3217 | 3233 | | (5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program. |
|---|
| 3218 | 3234 | | |
|---|
| 3219 | 3235 | | (B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes. |
|---|
| 3220 | 3236 | | |
|---|
| 3221 | 3237 | | (6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program. |
|---|
| 3222 | 3238 | | |
|---|
| 3223 | 3239 | | (7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017. |
|---|
| 3224 | 3240 | | |
|---|
| 3225 | 3241 | | (c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following: |
|---|
| 3226 | 3242 | | |
|---|
| 3227 | 3243 | | (A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both. |
|---|
| 3228 | 3244 | | |
|---|
| 3229 | 3245 | | (B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking. |
|---|
| 3230 | 3246 | | |
|---|
| 3231 | 3247 | | (C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan. |
|---|
| 3232 | 3248 | | |
|---|
| 3233 | 3249 | | (D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 3234 | 3250 | | |
|---|
| 3235 | 3251 | | (E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 3236 | 3252 | | |
|---|
| 3237 | 3253 | | (2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400. |
|---|
| 3238 | 3254 | | |
|---|
| 3239 | 3255 | | (3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 3240 | 3256 | | |
|---|
| 3241 | 3257 | | (4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship. |
|---|
| 3242 | 3258 | | |
|---|
| 3243 | 3259 | | (B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 3244 | 3260 | | |
|---|
| 3245 | 3261 | | (5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval. |
|---|
| 3246 | 3262 | | |
|---|
| 3247 | 3263 | | (6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family. |
|---|
| 3248 | 3264 | | |
|---|
| 3249 | 3265 | | (7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years. |
|---|
| 3250 | 3266 | | |
|---|
| 3251 | 3267 | | (B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3252 | 3268 | | |
|---|
| 3253 | 3269 | | (C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 3254 | 3270 | | |
|---|
| 3255 | 3271 | | (ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5. |
|---|
| 3256 | 3272 | | |
|---|
| 3257 | 3273 | | (D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law. |
|---|
| 3258 | 3274 | | |
|---|
| 3259 | 3275 | | (E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following: |
|---|
| 3260 | 3276 | | |
|---|
| 3261 | 3277 | | (i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order. |
|---|
| 3262 | 3278 | | |
|---|
| 3263 | 3279 | | (ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision. |
|---|
| 3264 | 3280 | | |
|---|
| 3265 | 3281 | | (8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval. |
|---|
| 3266 | 3282 | | |
|---|
| 3267 | 3283 | | (9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3268 | 3284 | | |
|---|
| 3269 | 3285 | | (10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family. |
|---|
| 3270 | 3286 | | |
|---|
| 3271 | 3287 | | (11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal. |
|---|
| 3272 | 3288 | | |
|---|
| 3273 | 3289 | | (B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed. |
|---|
| 3274 | 3290 | | |
|---|
| 3275 | 3291 | | (d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family. |
|---|
| 3276 | 3292 | | |
|---|
| 3277 | 3293 | | (2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 3278 | 3294 | | |
|---|
| 3279 | 3295 | | (A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code. |
|---|
| 3280 | 3296 | | |
|---|
| 3281 | 3297 | | (II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3282 | 3298 | | |
|---|
| 3283 | 3299 | | (III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV). |
|---|
| 3284 | 3300 | | |
|---|
| 3285 | 3301 | | (IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3286 | 3302 | | |
|---|
| 3287 | 3303 | | (V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered. |
|---|
| 3288 | 3304 | | |
|---|
| 3289 | 3305 | | (ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized. |
|---|
| 3290 | 3306 | | |
|---|
| 3291 | 3307 | | (iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search. |
|---|
| 3292 | 3308 | | |
|---|
| 3293 | 3309 | | (B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children. |
|---|
| 3294 | 3310 | | |
|---|
| 3295 | 3311 | | (C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following: |
|---|
| 3296 | 3312 | | |
|---|
| 3297 | 3313 | | (i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights. |
|---|
| 3298 | 3314 | | |
|---|
| 3299 | 3315 | | (ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together. |
|---|
| 3300 | 3316 | | |
|---|
| 3301 | 3317 | | (iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 3302 | 3318 | | |
|---|
| 3303 | 3319 | | (3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 3304 | 3320 | | |
|---|
| 3305 | 3321 | | (A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h). |
|---|
| 3306 | 3322 | | |
|---|
| 3307 | 3323 | | (B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment. |
|---|
| 3308 | 3324 | | |
|---|
| 3309 | 3325 | | (i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval. |
|---|
| 3310 | 3326 | | |
|---|
| 3311 | 3327 | | (ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c). |
|---|
| 3312 | 3328 | | |
|---|
| 3313 | 3329 | | (iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 3314 | 3330 | | |
|---|
| 3315 | 3331 | | (C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child. |
|---|
| 3316 | 3332 | | |
|---|
| 3317 | 3333 | | (4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 3318 | 3334 | | |
|---|
| 3319 | 3335 | | (B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments. |
|---|
| 3320 | 3336 | | |
|---|
| 3321 | 3337 | | (C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays. |
|---|
| 3322 | 3338 | | |
|---|
| 3323 | 3339 | | (e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 3324 | 3340 | | |
|---|
| 3325 | 3341 | | (A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists. |
|---|
| 3326 | 3342 | | |
|---|
| 3327 | 3343 | | (B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment. |
|---|
| 3328 | 3344 | | |
|---|
| 3329 | 3345 | | (C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays. |
|---|
| 3330 | 3346 | | |
|---|
| 3331 | 3347 | | (2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists. |
|---|
| 3332 | 3348 | | |
|---|
| 3333 | 3349 | | (3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed. |
|---|
| 3334 | 3350 | | |
|---|
| 3335 | 3351 | | (4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9. |
|---|
| 3336 | 3352 | | |
|---|
| 3337 | 3353 | | (5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided. |
|---|
| 3338 | 3354 | | |
|---|
| 3339 | 3355 | | (6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1. |
|---|
| 3340 | 3356 | | |
|---|
| 3341 | 3357 | | (f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 3342 | 3358 | | |
|---|
| 3343 | 3359 | | (1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. |
|---|
| 3344 | 3360 | | |
|---|
| 3345 | 3361 | | (B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state. |
|---|
| 3346 | 3362 | | |
|---|
| 3347 | 3363 | | (2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval. |
|---|
| 3348 | 3364 | | |
|---|
| 3349 | 3365 | | (3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families. |
|---|
| 3350 | 3366 | | |
|---|
| 3351 | 3367 | | (4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family. |
|---|
| 3352 | 3368 | | |
|---|
| 3353 | 3369 | | (5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following: |
|---|
| 3354 | 3370 | | |
|---|
| 3355 | 3371 | | (A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families. |
|---|
| 3356 | 3372 | | |
|---|
| 3357 | 3373 | | (B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved. |
|---|
| 3358 | 3374 | | |
|---|
| 3359 | 3375 | | (6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following: |
|---|
| 3360 | 3376 | | |
|---|
| 3361 | 3377 | | (A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program. |
|---|
| 3362 | 3378 | | |
|---|
| 3363 | 3379 | | (B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes. |
|---|
| 3364 | 3380 | | |
|---|
| 3365 | 3381 | | (C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation. |
|---|
| 3366 | 3382 | | |
|---|
| 3367 | 3383 | | (D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties. |
|---|
| 3368 | 3384 | | |
|---|
| 3369 | 3385 | | (E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section. |
|---|
| 3370 | 3386 | | |
|---|
| 3371 | 3387 | | (7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61. |
|---|
| 3372 | 3388 | | |
|---|
| 3373 | 3389 | | (8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 3374 | 3390 | | |
|---|
| 3375 | 3391 | | (A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department. |
|---|
| 3376 | 3392 | | |
|---|
| 3377 | 3393 | | (B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6. |
|---|
| 3378 | 3394 | | |
|---|
| 3379 | 3395 | | (C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program. |
|---|
| 3380 | 3396 | | |
|---|
| 3381 | 3397 | | (g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 3382 | 3398 | | |
|---|
| 3383 | 3399 | | (1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan. |
|---|
| 3384 | 3400 | | |
|---|
| 3385 | 3401 | | (2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 3386 | 3402 | | |
|---|
| 3387 | 3403 | | (3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department. |
|---|
| 3388 | 3404 | | |
|---|
| 3389 | 3405 | | (4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family. |
|---|
| 3390 | 3406 | | |
|---|
| 3391 | 3407 | | (5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61: |
|---|
| 3392 | 3408 | | |
|---|
| 3393 | 3409 | | (i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes. |
|---|
| 3394 | 3410 | | |
|---|
| 3395 | 3411 | | (II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application. |
|---|
| 3396 | 3412 | | |
|---|
| 3397 | 3413 | | (ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families. |
|---|
| 3398 | 3414 | | |
|---|
| 3399 | 3415 | | (iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard. |
|---|
| 3400 | 3416 | | |
|---|
| 3401 | 3417 | | (iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order. |
|---|
| 3402 | 3418 | | |
|---|
| 3403 | 3419 | | (v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions. |
|---|
| 3404 | 3420 | | |
|---|
| 3405 | 3421 | | (B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6. |
|---|
| 3406 | 3422 | | |
|---|
| 3407 | 3423 | | (C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action. |
|---|
| 3408 | 3424 | | |
|---|
| 3409 | 3425 | | (6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3410 | 3426 | | |
|---|
| 3411 | 3427 | | (B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 3412 | 3428 | | |
|---|
| 3413 | 3429 | | (7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following: |
|---|
| 3414 | 3430 | | |
|---|
| 3415 | 3431 | | (A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed. |
|---|
| 3416 | 3432 | | |
|---|
| 3417 | 3433 | | (B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval. |
|---|
| 3418 | 3434 | | |
|---|
| 3419 | 3435 | | (C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes. |
|---|
| 3420 | 3436 | | |
|---|
| 3421 | 3437 | | (D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided. |
|---|
| 3422 | 3438 | | |
|---|
| 3423 | 3439 | | (8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home. |
|---|
| 3424 | 3440 | | |
|---|
| 3425 | 3441 | | (B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family. |
|---|
| 3426 | 3442 | | |
|---|
| 3427 | 3443 | | (C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member. |
|---|
| 3428 | 3444 | | |
|---|
| 3429 | 3445 | | (D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation. |
|---|
| 3430 | 3446 | | |
|---|
| 3431 | 3447 | | (9) Performing corrective action as required by the department. |
|---|
| 3432 | 3448 | | |
|---|
| 3433 | 3449 | | (10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified. |
|---|
| 3434 | 3450 | | |
|---|
| 3435 | 3451 | | (11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f). |
|---|
| 3436 | 3452 | | |
|---|
| 3437 | 3453 | | (12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system. |
|---|
| 3438 | 3454 | | |
|---|
| 3439 | 3455 | | (13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses: |
|---|
| 3440 | 3456 | | |
|---|
| 3441 | 3457 | | (A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems. |
|---|
| 3442 | 3458 | | |
|---|
| 3443 | 3459 | | (B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect. |
|---|
| 3444 | 3460 | | |
|---|
| 3445 | 3461 | | (C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem. |
|---|
| 3446 | 3462 | | |
|---|
| 3447 | 3463 | | (D) Health issues in foster care. |
|---|
| 3448 | 3464 | | |
|---|
| 3449 | 3465 | | (E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services. |
|---|
| 3450 | 3466 | | |
|---|
| 3451 | 3467 | | (F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status. |
|---|
| 3452 | 3468 | | |
|---|
| 3453 | 3469 | | (G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. |
|---|
| 3454 | 3470 | | |
|---|
| 3455 | 3471 | | (H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school. |
|---|
| 3456 | 3472 | | |
|---|
| 3457 | 3473 | | (I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children. |
|---|
| 3458 | 3474 | | |
|---|
| 3459 | 3475 | | (J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. |
|---|
| 3460 | 3476 | | |
|---|
| 3461 | 3477 | | (K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan. |
|---|
| 3462 | 3478 | | |
|---|
| 3463 | 3479 | | (L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501. |
|---|
| 3464 | 3480 | | |
|---|
| 3465 | 3481 | | (M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 3466 | 3482 | | |
|---|
| 3467 | 3483 | | (N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h). |
|---|
| 3468 | 3484 | | |
|---|
| 3469 | 3485 | | (O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5. |
|---|
| 3470 | 3486 | | |
|---|
| 3471 | 3487 | | (P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities. |
|---|
| 3472 | 3488 | | |
|---|
| 3473 | 3489 | | (14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13). |
|---|
| 3474 | 3490 | | |
|---|
| 3475 | 3491 | | (15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics: |
|---|
| 3476 | 3492 | | |
|---|
| 3477 | 3493 | | (i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation. |
|---|
| 3478 | 3494 | | |
|---|
| 3479 | 3495 | | (ii) Harm reduction. |
|---|
| 3480 | 3496 | | |
|---|
| 3481 | 3497 | | (iii) Trauma-informed care. |
|---|
| 3482 | 3498 | | |
|---|
| 3483 | 3499 | | (iv) Available county and state resources. |
|---|
| 3484 | 3500 | | |
|---|
| 3485 | 3501 | | (v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation. |
|---|
| 3486 | 3502 | | |
|---|
| 3487 | 3503 | | (B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph. |
|---|
| 3488 | 3504 | | |
|---|
| 3489 | 3505 | | (C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. |
|---|
| 3490 | 3506 | | |
|---|
| 3491 | 3507 | | (D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means. |
|---|
| 3492 | 3508 | | |
|---|
| 3493 | 3509 | | (h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following: |
|---|
| 3494 | 3510 | | |
|---|
| 3495 | 3511 | | (1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children. |
|---|
| 3496 | 3512 | | |
|---|
| 3497 | 3513 | | (2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children. |
|---|
| 3498 | 3514 | | |
|---|
| 3499 | 3515 | | (3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications. |
|---|
| 3500 | 3516 | | |
|---|
| 3501 | 3517 | | (4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions. |
|---|
| 3502 | 3518 | | |
|---|
| 3503 | 3519 | | (5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents. |
|---|
| 3504 | 3520 | | |
|---|
| 3505 | 3521 | | (6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs. |
|---|
| 3506 | 3522 | | |
|---|
| 3507 | 3523 | | (7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options. |
|---|
| 3508 | 3524 | | |
|---|
| 3509 | 3525 | | (i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section. |
|---|
| 3510 | 3526 | | |
|---|
| 3511 | 3527 | | (j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g). |
|---|
| 3512 | 3528 | | |
|---|
| 3513 | 3529 | | (2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3514 | 3530 | | |
|---|
| 3515 | 3531 | | (B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice. |
|---|
| 3516 | 3532 | | |
|---|
| 3517 | 3533 | | (3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation. |
|---|
| 3518 | 3534 | | |
|---|
| 3519 | 3535 | | (k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program. |
|---|
| 3520 | 3536 | | |
|---|
| 3521 | 3537 | | (l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care. |
|---|
| 3522 | 3538 | | |
|---|
| 3523 | 3539 | | (m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101. |
|---|
| 3524 | 3540 | | |
|---|
| 3525 | 3541 | | (n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section. |
|---|
| 3526 | 3542 | | |
|---|
| 3527 | 3543 | | (o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following: |
|---|
| 3528 | 3544 | | |
|---|
| 3529 | 3545 | | (1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act. |
|---|
| 3530 | 3546 | | |
|---|
| 3531 | 3547 | | (2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017. |
|---|
| 3532 | 3548 | | |
|---|
| 3533 | 3549 | | (p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017. |
|---|
| 3534 | 3550 | | |
|---|
| 3535 | 3551 | | (2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes. |
|---|
| 3536 | 3552 | | |
|---|
| 3537 | 3553 | | (ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3538 | 3554 | | |
|---|
| 3539 | 3555 | | (B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members. |
|---|
| 3540 | 3556 | | |
|---|
| 3541 | 3557 | | (ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 3542 | 3558 | | |
|---|
| 3543 | 3559 | | (C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable. |
|---|
| 3544 | 3560 | | |
|---|
| 3545 | 3561 | | (D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members. |
|---|
| 3546 | 3562 | | |
|---|
| 3547 | 3563 | | (3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county: |
|---|
| 3548 | 3564 | | |
|---|
| 3549 | 3565 | | (A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program. |
|---|
| 3550 | 3566 | | |
|---|
| 3551 | 3567 | | (B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020. |
|---|
| 3552 | 3568 | | |
|---|
| 3553 | 3569 | | (C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8). |
|---|
| 3554 | 3570 | | |
|---|
| 3555 | 3571 | | (4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members: |
|---|
| 3556 | 3572 | | |
|---|
| 3557 | 3573 | | (A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family. |
|---|
| 3558 | 3574 | | |
|---|
| 3559 | 3575 | | (B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation. |
|---|
| 3560 | 3576 | | |
|---|
| 3561 | 3577 | | (C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation. |
|---|
| 3562 | 3578 | | |
|---|
| 3563 | 3579 | | (5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions. |
|---|
| 3564 | 3580 | | |
|---|
| 3565 | 3581 | | (6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3566 | 3582 | | |
|---|
| 3567 | 3583 | | (B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice. |
|---|
| 3568 | 3584 | | |
|---|
| 3569 | 3585 | | (7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption. |
|---|
| 3570 | 3586 | | |
|---|
| 3571 | 3587 | | (8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code: |
|---|
| 3572 | 3588 | | |
|---|
| 3573 | 3589 | | (A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018. |
|---|
| 3574 | 3590 | | |
|---|
| 3575 | 3591 | | (B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process. |
|---|
| 3576 | 3592 | | |
|---|
| 3577 | 3593 | | (C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 3578 | 3594 | | |
|---|
| 3579 | 3595 | | (D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 3580 | 3596 | | |
|---|
| 3581 | 3597 | | (q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3582 | 3598 | | |
|---|
| 3583 | 3599 | | (r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes. |
|---|
| 3584 | 3600 | | |
|---|
| 3585 | 3601 | | (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval. |
|---|
| 3586 | 3602 | | |
|---|
| 3587 | 3603 | | (2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3588 | 3604 | | |
|---|
| 3589 | 3605 | | (3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency. |
|---|
| 3590 | 3606 | | |
|---|
| 3591 | 3607 | | (4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision. |
|---|
| 3592 | 3608 | | |
|---|
| 3593 | 3609 | | (5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017. |
|---|
| 3594 | 3610 | | |
|---|
| 3595 | 3611 | | (s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3596 | 3612 | | |
|---|
| 3597 | 3613 | | (t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency. |
|---|
| 3598 | 3614 | | |
|---|
| 3599 | 3615 | | (u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021. |
|---|
| 3600 | 3616 | | |
|---|
| 3601 | 3617 | | SEC. 25.4. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed. |
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| 3602 | 3618 | | |
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| 3603 | 3619 | | SEC. 25.4. Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read: |
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| 3604 | 3620 | | |
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| 3605 | 3621 | | ### SEC. 25.4. |
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| 3606 | 3622 | | |
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| 3607 | 3623 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed. |
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| 3609 | 3625 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed. |
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| 3610 | 3626 | | |
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| 3611 | 3627 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed. |
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| 3612 | 3628 | | |
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| 3613 | 3629 | | |
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| 3614 | 3630 | | |
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| 3615 | 3631 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families. |
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| 3616 | 3632 | | |
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| 3617 | 3633 | | (b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location. |
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| 3618 | 3634 | | |
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| 3619 | 3635 | | (2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department. |
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| 3620 | 3636 | | |
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| 3621 | 3637 | | (3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following: |
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| 3622 | 3638 | | |
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| 3623 | 3639 | | (A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. |
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| 3624 | 3640 | | |
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| 3625 | 3641 | | (B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families. |
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| 3626 | 3642 | | |
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| 3627 | 3643 | | (C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties. |
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| 3628 | 3644 | | |
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| 3629 | 3645 | | (4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following: |
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| 3630 | 3646 | | |
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| 3631 | 3647 | | (A) Submitting an implementation plan. |
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| 3632 | 3648 | | |
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| 3633 | 3649 | | (B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program. |
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| 3634 | 3650 | | |
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| 3635 | 3651 | | (C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan. |
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| 3636 | 3652 | | |
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| 3637 | 3653 | | (D) Training appropriate staff. |
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| 3638 | 3654 | | |
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| 3639 | 3655 | | (E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department. |
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| 3640 | 3656 | | |
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| 3641 | 3657 | | (5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program. |
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| 3642 | 3658 | | |
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| 3643 | 3659 | | (B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes. |
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| 3644 | 3660 | | |
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| 3645 | 3661 | | (6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program. |
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| 3646 | 3662 | | |
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| 3647 | 3663 | | (7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017. |
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| 3648 | 3664 | | |
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| 3649 | 3665 | | (c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following: |
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| 3650 | 3666 | | |
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| 3651 | 3667 | | (A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both. |
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| 3652 | 3668 | | |
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| 3653 | 3669 | | (B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking. |
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| 3654 | 3670 | | |
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| 3655 | 3671 | | (C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan. |
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| 3656 | 3672 | | |
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| 3657 | 3673 | | (D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family. |
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| 3658 | 3674 | | |
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| 3659 | 3675 | | (E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child. |
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| 3660 | 3676 | | |
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| 3661 | 3677 | | (2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400. |
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| 3662 | 3678 | | |
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| 3663 | 3679 | | (3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family. |
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| 3664 | 3680 | | |
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| 3665 | 3681 | | (4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship. |
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| 3666 | 3682 | | |
|---|
| 3667 | 3683 | | (B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
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| 3668 | 3684 | | |
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| 3669 | 3685 | | (ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause. |
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| 3670 | 3686 | | |
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| 3671 | 3687 | | (5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval. |
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| 3672 | 3688 | | |
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| 3673 | 3689 | | (6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family. |
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| 3674 | 3690 | | |
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| 3675 | 3691 | | (7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years. |
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| 3676 | 3692 | | |
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| 3677 | 3693 | | (B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code. |
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| 3678 | 3694 | | |
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| 3679 | 3695 | | (C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
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| 3680 | 3696 | | |
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| 3681 | 3697 | | (ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5. |
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| 3682 | 3698 | | |
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| 3683 | 3699 | | (D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law. |
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| 3684 | 3700 | | |
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| 3685 | 3701 | | (E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following: |
|---|
| 3686 | 3702 | | |
|---|
| 3687 | 3703 | | (i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order. |
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| 3688 | 3704 | | |
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| 3689 | 3705 | | (ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision. |
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| 3690 | 3706 | | |
|---|
| 3691 | 3707 | | (8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval. |
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| 3692 | 3708 | | |
|---|
| 3693 | 3709 | | (9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3694 | 3710 | | |
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| 3695 | 3711 | | (10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family. |
|---|
| 3696 | 3712 | | |
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| 3697 | 3713 | | (11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal. |
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| 3698 | 3714 | | |
|---|
| 3699 | 3715 | | (B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed. |
|---|
| 3700 | 3716 | | |
|---|
| 3701 | 3717 | | (d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family. |
|---|
| 3702 | 3718 | | |
|---|
| 3703 | 3719 | | (2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 3704 | 3720 | | |
|---|
| 3705 | 3721 | | (A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code. |
|---|
| 3706 | 3722 | | |
|---|
| 3707 | 3723 | | (II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3708 | 3724 | | |
|---|
| 3709 | 3725 | | (III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV). |
|---|
| 3710 | 3726 | | |
|---|
| 3711 | 3727 | | (IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3712 | 3728 | | |
|---|
| 3713 | 3729 | | (V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered. |
|---|
| 3714 | 3730 | | |
|---|
| 3715 | 3731 | | (ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized. |
|---|
| 3716 | 3732 | | |
|---|
| 3717 | 3733 | | (iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search. |
|---|
| 3718 | 3734 | | |
|---|
| 3719 | 3735 | | (B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children. |
|---|
| 3720 | 3736 | | |
|---|
| 3721 | 3737 | | (C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following: |
|---|
| 3722 | 3738 | | |
|---|
| 3723 | 3739 | | (i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights. |
|---|
| 3724 | 3740 | | |
|---|
| 3725 | 3741 | | (ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together. |
|---|
| 3726 | 3742 | | |
|---|
| 3727 | 3743 | | (iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 3728 | 3744 | | |
|---|
| 3729 | 3745 | | (3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 3730 | 3746 | | |
|---|
| 3731 | 3747 | | (A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h). |
|---|
| 3732 | 3748 | | |
|---|
| 3733 | 3749 | | (B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment. |
|---|
| 3734 | 3750 | | |
|---|
| 3735 | 3751 | | (i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval. |
|---|
| 3736 | 3752 | | |
|---|
| 3737 | 3753 | | (ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c). |
|---|
| 3738 | 3754 | | |
|---|
| 3739 | 3755 | | (iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 3740 | 3756 | | |
|---|
| 3741 | 3757 | | (C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child. |
|---|
| 3742 | 3758 | | |
|---|
| 3743 | 3759 | | (4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 3744 | 3760 | | |
|---|
| 3745 | 3761 | | (B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments. |
|---|
| 3746 | 3762 | | |
|---|
| 3747 | 3763 | | (C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays. |
|---|
| 3748 | 3764 | | |
|---|
| 3749 | 3765 | | (e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 3750 | 3766 | | |
|---|
| 3751 | 3767 | | (A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists. |
|---|
| 3752 | 3768 | | |
|---|
| 3753 | 3769 | | (B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment. |
|---|
| 3754 | 3770 | | |
|---|
| 3755 | 3771 | | (C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays. |
|---|
| 3756 | 3772 | | |
|---|
| 3757 | 3773 | | (2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists. |
|---|
| 3758 | 3774 | | |
|---|
| 3759 | 3775 | | (3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed. |
|---|
| 3760 | 3776 | | |
|---|
| 3761 | 3777 | | (4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9. |
|---|
| 3762 | 3778 | | |
|---|
| 3763 | 3779 | | (5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided. |
|---|
| 3764 | 3780 | | |
|---|
| 3765 | 3781 | | (6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1. |
|---|
| 3766 | 3782 | | |
|---|
| 3767 | 3783 | | (f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 3768 | 3784 | | |
|---|
| 3769 | 3785 | | (1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. |
|---|
| 3770 | 3786 | | |
|---|
| 3771 | 3787 | | (B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state. |
|---|
| 3772 | 3788 | | |
|---|
| 3773 | 3789 | | (2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval. |
|---|
| 3774 | 3790 | | |
|---|
| 3775 | 3791 | | (3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families. |
|---|
| 3776 | 3792 | | |
|---|
| 3777 | 3793 | | (4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family. |
|---|
| 3778 | 3794 | | |
|---|
| 3779 | 3795 | | (5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following: |
|---|
| 3780 | 3796 | | |
|---|
| 3781 | 3797 | | (A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families. |
|---|
| 3782 | 3798 | | |
|---|
| 3783 | 3799 | | (B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved. |
|---|
| 3784 | 3800 | | |
|---|
| 3785 | 3801 | | (6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following: |
|---|
| 3786 | 3802 | | |
|---|
| 3787 | 3803 | | (A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program. |
|---|
| 3788 | 3804 | | |
|---|
| 3789 | 3805 | | (B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes. |
|---|
| 3790 | 3806 | | |
|---|
| 3791 | 3807 | | (C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation. |
|---|
| 3792 | 3808 | | |
|---|
| 3793 | 3809 | | (D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties. |
|---|
| 3794 | 3810 | | |
|---|
| 3795 | 3811 | | (E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section. |
|---|
| 3796 | 3812 | | |
|---|
| 3797 | 3813 | | (7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61. |
|---|
| 3798 | 3814 | | |
|---|
| 3799 | 3815 | | (8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 3800 | 3816 | | |
|---|
| 3801 | 3817 | | (A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department. |
|---|
| 3802 | 3818 | | |
|---|
| 3803 | 3819 | | (B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6. |
|---|
| 3804 | 3820 | | |
|---|
| 3805 | 3821 | | (C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program. |
|---|
| 3806 | 3822 | | |
|---|
| 3807 | 3823 | | (g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 3808 | 3824 | | |
|---|
| 3809 | 3825 | | (1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan. |
|---|
| 3810 | 3826 | | |
|---|
| 3811 | 3827 | | (2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 3812 | 3828 | | |
|---|
| 3813 | 3829 | | (3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department. |
|---|
| 3814 | 3830 | | |
|---|
| 3815 | 3831 | | (4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family. |
|---|
| 3816 | 3832 | | |
|---|
| 3817 | 3833 | | (5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61: |
|---|
| 3818 | 3834 | | |
|---|
| 3819 | 3835 | | (i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes. |
|---|
| 3820 | 3836 | | |
|---|
| 3821 | 3837 | | (II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application. |
|---|
| 3822 | 3838 | | |
|---|
| 3823 | 3839 | | (ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families. |
|---|
| 3824 | 3840 | | |
|---|
| 3825 | 3841 | | (iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard. |
|---|
| 3826 | 3842 | | |
|---|
| 3827 | 3843 | | (iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order. |
|---|
| 3828 | 3844 | | |
|---|
| 3829 | 3845 | | (v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions. |
|---|
| 3830 | 3846 | | |
|---|
| 3831 | 3847 | | (B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6. |
|---|
| 3832 | 3848 | | |
|---|
| 3833 | 3849 | | (C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action. |
|---|
| 3834 | 3850 | | |
|---|
| 3835 | 3851 | | (6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3836 | 3852 | | |
|---|
| 3837 | 3853 | | (B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 3838 | 3854 | | |
|---|
| 3839 | 3855 | | (7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following: |
|---|
| 3840 | 3856 | | |
|---|
| 3841 | 3857 | | (A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed. |
|---|
| 3842 | 3858 | | |
|---|
| 3843 | 3859 | | (B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval. |
|---|
| 3844 | 3860 | | |
|---|
| 3845 | 3861 | | (C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes. |
|---|
| 3846 | 3862 | | |
|---|
| 3847 | 3863 | | (D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided. |
|---|
| 3848 | 3864 | | |
|---|
| 3849 | 3865 | | (8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home. |
|---|
| 3850 | 3866 | | |
|---|
| 3851 | 3867 | | (B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family. |
|---|
| 3852 | 3868 | | |
|---|
| 3853 | 3869 | | (C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member. |
|---|
| 3854 | 3870 | | |
|---|
| 3855 | 3871 | | (D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation. |
|---|
| 3856 | 3872 | | |
|---|
| 3857 | 3873 | | (9) Performing corrective action as required by the department. |
|---|
| 3858 | 3874 | | |
|---|
| 3859 | 3875 | | (10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified. |
|---|
| 3860 | 3876 | | |
|---|
| 3861 | 3877 | | (11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f). |
|---|
| 3862 | 3878 | | |
|---|
| 3863 | 3879 | | (12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system. |
|---|
| 3864 | 3880 | | |
|---|
| 3865 | 3881 | | (13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses: |
|---|
| 3866 | 3882 | | |
|---|
| 3867 | 3883 | | (A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems. |
|---|
| 3868 | 3884 | | |
|---|
| 3869 | 3885 | | (B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect. |
|---|
| 3870 | 3886 | | |
|---|
| 3871 | 3887 | | (C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem. |
|---|
| 3872 | 3888 | | |
|---|
| 3873 | 3889 | | (D) Health issues in foster care. |
|---|
| 3874 | 3890 | | |
|---|
| 3875 | 3891 | | (E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services. |
|---|
| 3876 | 3892 | | |
|---|
| 3877 | 3893 | | (F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status. |
|---|
| 3878 | 3894 | | |
|---|
| 3879 | 3895 | | (G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. |
|---|
| 3880 | 3896 | | |
|---|
| 3881 | 3897 | | (H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school. |
|---|
| 3882 | 3898 | | |
|---|
| 3883 | 3899 | | (I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children. |
|---|
| 3884 | 3900 | | |
|---|
| 3885 | 3901 | | (J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. |
|---|
| 3886 | 3902 | | |
|---|
| 3887 | 3903 | | (K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan. |
|---|
| 3888 | 3904 | | |
|---|
| 3889 | 3905 | | (L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501. |
|---|
| 3890 | 3906 | | |
|---|
| 3891 | 3907 | | (M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 3892 | 3908 | | |
|---|
| 3893 | 3909 | | (N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h). |
|---|
| 3894 | 3910 | | |
|---|
| 3895 | 3911 | | (O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5. |
|---|
| 3896 | 3912 | | |
|---|
| 3897 | 3913 | | (14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13). |
|---|
| 3898 | 3914 | | |
|---|
| 3899 | 3915 | | (h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following: |
|---|
| 3900 | 3916 | | |
|---|
| 3901 | 3917 | | (1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children. |
|---|
| 3902 | 3918 | | |
|---|
| 3903 | 3919 | | (2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children. |
|---|
| 3904 | 3920 | | |
|---|
| 3905 | 3921 | | (3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications. |
|---|
| 3906 | 3922 | | |
|---|
| 3907 | 3923 | | (4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions. |
|---|
| 3908 | 3924 | | |
|---|
| 3909 | 3925 | | (5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents. |
|---|
| 3910 | 3926 | | |
|---|
| 3911 | 3927 | | (6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs. |
|---|
| 3912 | 3928 | | |
|---|
| 3913 | 3929 | | (7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options. |
|---|
| 3914 | 3930 | | |
|---|
| 3915 | 3931 | | (i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section. |
|---|
| 3916 | 3932 | | |
|---|
| 3917 | 3933 | | (j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g). |
|---|
| 3918 | 3934 | | |
|---|
| 3919 | 3935 | | (2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 3920 | 3936 | | |
|---|
| 3921 | 3937 | | (B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice. |
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| 3922 | 3938 | | |
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| 3923 | 3939 | | (3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation. |
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| 3924 | 3940 | | |
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| 3925 | 3941 | | (k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program. |
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| 3926 | 3942 | | |
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| 3927 | 3943 | | (l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care. |
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| 3928 | 3944 | | |
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| 3929 | 3945 | | (m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101. |
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| 3930 | 3946 | | |
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| 3931 | 3947 | | (n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section. |
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| 3932 | 3948 | | |
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| 3933 | 3949 | | (o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following: |
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| 3934 | 3950 | | |
|---|
| 3935 | 3951 | | (1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act. |
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| 3936 | 3952 | | |
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| 3937 | 3953 | | (2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017. |
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| 3938 | 3954 | | |
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| 3939 | 3955 | | (p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017. |
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| 3940 | 3956 | | |
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| 3941 | 3957 | | (2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes. |
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| 3942 | 3958 | | |
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| 3943 | 3959 | | (ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code. |
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| 3944 | 3960 | | |
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| 3945 | 3961 | | (B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members. |
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| 3946 | 3962 | | |
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| 3947 | 3963 | | (ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section. |
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| 3948 | 3964 | | |
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| 3949 | 3965 | | (C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable. |
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| 3950 | 3966 | | |
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| 3951 | 3967 | | (D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members. |
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| 3952 | 3968 | | |
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| 3953 | 3969 | | (3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county: |
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| 3954 | 3970 | | |
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| 3955 | 3971 | | (A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program. |
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| 3956 | 3972 | | |
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| 3957 | 3973 | | (B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020. |
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| 3958 | 3974 | | |
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| 3959 | 3975 | | (C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8). |
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| 3960 | 3976 | | |
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| 3961 | 3977 | | (4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members: |
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| 3962 | 3978 | | |
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| 3963 | 3979 | | (A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family. |
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| 3964 | 3980 | | |
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| 3965 | 3981 | | (B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation. |
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| 3966 | 3982 | | |
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| 3967 | 3983 | | (C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation. |
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| 3968 | 3984 | | |
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| 3969 | 3985 | | (5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions. |
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| 3970 | 3986 | | |
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| 3971 | 3987 | | (6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
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| 3972 | 3988 | | |
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| 3973 | 3989 | | (B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice. |
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| 3974 | 3990 | | |
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| 3975 | 3991 | | (7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption. |
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| 3976 | 3992 | | |
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| 3977 | 3993 | | (8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code: |
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| 3978 | 3994 | | |
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| 3979 | 3995 | | (A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018. |
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| 3980 | 3996 | | |
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| 3981 | 3997 | | (B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process. |
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| 3982 | 3998 | | |
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| 3983 | 3999 | | (C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family. |
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| 3984 | 4000 | | |
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| 3985 | 4001 | | (D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. |
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| 3986 | 4002 | | |
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| 3987 | 4003 | | (q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
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| 3988 | 4004 | | |
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| 3989 | 4005 | | (r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes. |
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| 3990 | 4006 | | |
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| 3991 | 4007 | | (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval. |
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| 3992 | 4008 | | |
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| 3993 | 4009 | | (2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
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| 3994 | 4010 | | |
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| 3995 | 4011 | | (3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency. |
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| 3996 | 4012 | | |
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| 3997 | 4013 | | (4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision. |
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| 3998 | 4014 | | |
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| 3999 | 4015 | | (5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017. |
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| 4000 | 4016 | | |
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| 4001 | 4017 | | (s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
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| 4002 | 4018 | | |
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| 4003 | 4019 | | (t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency. |
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| 4004 | 4020 | | |
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| 4005 | 4021 | | (u) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2021, and as of that date is repealed. |
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| 4006 | 4022 | | |
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| 4007 | 4023 | | SEC. 25.5. Section 16519.5 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read:16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics:(i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation.(ii) Harm reduction.(iii) Trauma-informed care.(iv) Available county and state resources.(v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation.(B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph.(C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited.(D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means.(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021. |
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| 4008 | 4024 | | |
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| 4009 | 4025 | | SEC. 25.5. Section 16519.5 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read: |
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| 4010 | 4026 | | |
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| 4011 | 4027 | | ### SEC. 25.5. |
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| 4012 | 4028 | | |
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| 4013 | 4029 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics:(i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation.(ii) Harm reduction.(iii) Trauma-informed care.(iv) Available county and state resources.(v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation.(B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph.(C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited.(D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means.(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021. |
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| 4015 | 4031 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics:(i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation.(ii) Harm reduction.(iii) Trauma-informed care.(iv) Available county and state resources.(v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation.(B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph.(C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited.(D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means.(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021. |
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| 4016 | 4032 | | |
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| 4017 | 4033 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families.(b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location.(2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department.(3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California.(B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families.(C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties.(4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following:(A) Submitting an implementation plan.(B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program.(C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(D) Training appropriate staff.(E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department.(5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program.(B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes.(6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program.(7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017.(c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following:(A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both.(B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking.(C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan.(D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family.(E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child.(2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400.(3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family.(4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship.(B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause.(5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval.(6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family.(7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years.(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code.(C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5.(D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law.(E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following:(i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order.(ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision.(8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval.(9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family.(11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal.(B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed.(d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family.(2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.(II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV).(IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered.(ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized.(iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search.(B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children.(C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following:(i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights.(ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together.(iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child.(3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h).(B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment.(i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval.(ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).(iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child.(4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child.(B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child.(A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists.(B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment.(C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays.(2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists.(3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed.(4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9.(5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1.(f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.(B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state.(2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval.(3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families.(4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following:(A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families.(B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved.(6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following:(A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program.(B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes.(C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation.(D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties.(E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section.(7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61.(8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following:(A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department.(B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program.(g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan.(2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department.(4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family.(5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61:(i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes.(II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application.(ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families.(iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard.(iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order.(v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions.(B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6.(C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action.(6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section.(7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following:(A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed.(B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval.(C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes.(D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided.(8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home.(B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family.(C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member.(D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation.(9) Performing corrective action as required by the department.(10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified.(11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f).(12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system.(13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses:(A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems.(B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect.(C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem.(D) Health issues in foster care.(E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services.(F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status.(G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.(H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school.(I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children.(J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.(K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan.(L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501.(M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child.(N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h).(O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5.(P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities.(14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13).(15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics:(i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation.(ii) Harm reduction.(iii) Trauma-informed care.(iv) Available county and state resources.(v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation.(B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph.(C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited.(D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means.(h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following:(1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children.(2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children.(3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications.(4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions.(5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents.(6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs.(7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options.(i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section.(j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g).(2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation.(k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program.(l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care.(m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101.(n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section.(o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following:(1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act.(2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017.(p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017.(2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section.(C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable.(D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members.(3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county:(A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program.(B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020.(C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8).(4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members:(A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family.(B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation.(5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions.(6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice.(7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption.(8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code:(A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018.(B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process.(C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family.(D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family.(q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes.(1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval.(2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code.(3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency.(4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision.(5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017.(s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency.(u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021. |
|---|
| 4018 | 4034 | | |
|---|
| 4019 | 4035 | | |
|---|
| 4020 | 4036 | | |
|---|
| 4021 | 4037 | | 16519.5. (a) The State Department of Social Services, in consultation with county child welfare agencies, foster parent associations, and other interested community parties, shall implement a unified, family friendly, and child-centered resource family approval process to replace the existing multiple processes for licensing foster family homes, certifying foster homes by licensed foster family agencies, approving relatives and nonrelative extended family members as foster care providers, and approving guardians and adoptive families. |
|---|
| 4022 | 4038 | | |
|---|
| 4023 | 4039 | | (b) (1) Counties shall be selected to participate on a voluntary basis as early implementation counties for the purpose of participating in the initial development of the approval process. Early implementation counties shall be selected according to criteria developed by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. In selecting the five early implementation counties, the department shall promote diversity among the participating counties in terms of size and geographic location. |
|---|
| 4024 | 4040 | | |
|---|
| 4025 | 4041 | | (2) Additional counties may participate in the early implementation of the program upon authorization by the department. |
|---|
| 4026 | 4042 | | |
|---|
| 4027 | 4043 | | (3) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 4028 | 4044 | | |
|---|
| 4029 | 4045 | | (A) Selecting early implementation counties, based on criteria established by the department in consultation with the County Welfare Directors Association of California. |
|---|
| 4030 | 4046 | | |
|---|
| 4031 | 4047 | | (B) Establishing timeframes for participating counties to submit an implementation plan, enter into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program, train appropriate staff, and accept applications from resource families. |
|---|
| 4032 | 4048 | | |
|---|
| 4033 | 4049 | | (C) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program by counties. |
|---|
| 4034 | 4050 | | |
|---|
| 4035 | 4051 | | (4) Counties participating in the early implementation of the program shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 4036 | 4052 | | |
|---|
| 4037 | 4053 | | (A) Submitting an implementation plan. |
|---|
| 4038 | 4054 | | |
|---|
| 4039 | 4055 | | (B) Entering into terms and conditions for early implementation participation in the program. |
|---|
| 4040 | 4056 | | |
|---|
| 4041 | 4057 | | (C) Consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan. |
|---|
| 4042 | 4058 | | |
|---|
| 4043 | 4059 | | (D) Training appropriate staff. |
|---|
| 4044 | 4060 | | |
|---|
| 4045 | 4061 | | (E) Accepting applications from resource families within the timeframes established by the department. |
|---|
| 4046 | 4062 | | |
|---|
| 4047 | 4063 | | (5) (A) Approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members, licensed foster family homes, or approved adoptive homes that have completed the license or approval process prior to statewide implementation of the program shall not be considered part of the program. The otherwise applicable assessment and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for families and facilities not included in the program. |
|---|
| 4048 | 4064 | | |
|---|
| 4049 | 4065 | | (B) Upon implementation of the program in a county, that county shall not accept new applications for the licensure of foster family homes, the approval of relative and nonrelative extended family members, or the approval of prospective guardians and adoptive homes. |
|---|
| 4050 | 4066 | | |
|---|
| 4051 | 4067 | | (6) The department may waive regulations that pose a barrier to the early implementation and operation of this program. The waiver of any regulations by the department pursuant to this section shall apply to only those counties or foster family agencies participating in the early implementation of the program and only for the duration of the program. |
|---|
| 4052 | 4068 | | |
|---|
| 4053 | 4069 | | (7) This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017. |
|---|
| 4054 | 4070 | | |
|---|
| 4055 | 4071 | | (c) (1) For purposes of this article, resource family means an individual or family that has successfully met both the home environment assessment standards and the permanency assessment criteria adopted pursuant to subdivision (d) necessary for providing care for a child placed by a public or private child placement agency by court order, or voluntarily placed by a parent or legal guardian. A resource family shall demonstrate all of the following: |
|---|
| 4056 | 4072 | | |
|---|
| 4057 | 4073 | | (A) An understanding of the safety, permanence, and well-being needs of children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect, and the capacity and willingness to meet those needs, including the need for protection, and the willingness to make use of support resources offered by the agency, or a support structure in place, or both. |
|---|
| 4058 | 4074 | | |
|---|
| 4059 | 4075 | | (B) An understanding of childrens needs and development, effective parenting skills or knowledge about parenting, and the capacity to act as a reasonable, prudent parent in day-to-day decisionmaking. |
|---|
| 4060 | 4076 | | |
|---|
| 4061 | 4077 | | (C) An understanding of the role of the individual or family as a resource family and the capacity to work cooperatively with the agency and other service providers in implementing the childs case plan. |
|---|
| 4062 | 4078 | | |
|---|
| 4063 | 4079 | | (D) The financial ability within the household to ensure the stability and financial security of the family. An applicant who will rely on the funding described in subdivision (l) to meet additional household expenses incurred due to the placement of a child shall not, for this reason, be denied approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 4064 | 4080 | | |
|---|
| 4065 | 4081 | | (E) An ability and willingness to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 4066 | 4082 | | |
|---|
| 4067 | 4083 | | (2) For purposes of this article, and unless otherwise specified, references to a child shall include a nonminor dependent and nonminor former dependent or ward, as defined in subdivision (v) and paragraph (1) of subdivision (aa) of Section 11400. |
|---|
| 4068 | 4084 | | |
|---|
| 4069 | 4085 | | (3) There is no fundamental right to approval as a resource family. Emergency placement of a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, or placement with a resource family applicant pursuant to subdivision (e), does not entitle an applicant approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 4070 | 4086 | | |
|---|
| 4071 | 4087 | | (4) (A) A resource family shall be considered eligible to provide foster care for children in out-of-home placement and approved for adoption and guardianship. |
|---|
| 4072 | 4088 | | |
|---|
| 4073 | 4089 | | (B) (i) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a county may approve a resource family to care for a specific child, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 4074 | 4090 | | |
|---|
| 4075 | 4091 | | (ii) In the case of an Indian child for whom the childs tribe is not exercising its right to approve a home, the county shall apply the prevailing social and cultural standards of the Indian community to resource family approval for that child, as required by subdivision (f) of Section 361.31 and the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.). The department shall engage in the tribal consultation process and develop regulations to implement this clause. Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement this clause through all-county letters or other similar instruction, and provide guidance to counties regarding consistent implementation of this clause. |
|---|
| 4076 | 4092 | | |
|---|
| 4077 | 4093 | | (5) For purposes of this article, resource family approval means that the applicant or resource family successfully meets the home environment assessment and permanency assessment standards. This approval is in lieu of a foster family home license issued pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, a certificate of approval issued by a licensed foster family agency, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 1506 of the Health and Safety Code, relative or nonrelative extended family member approval, guardianship approval, and the adoption home study approval. |
|---|
| 4078 | 4094 | | |
|---|
| 4079 | 4095 | | (6) Approval of a resource family does not guarantee an initial, continued, or adoptive placement of a child with a resource family or with a relative or nonrelative extended family member. Approval of a resource family does not guarantee the establishment of a legal guardianship of a child with a resource family. |
|---|
| 4080 | 4096 | | |
|---|
| 4081 | 4097 | | (7) (A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) to (6), inclusive, the county shall, consistent with Sections 1520.3 and 1558.1 of the Health and Safety Code, cease any further review of an application if the applicant has had a previous application denial by the department or a county within the preceding year, or if the applicant has had a previous rescission, revocation, or exemption denial or exemption rescission by the department or a county within the preceding two years. |
|---|
| 4082 | 4098 | | |
|---|
| 4083 | 4099 | | (B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the county may continue to review an application if it has determined that the reasons for the previous denial, rescission, or revocation were due to circumstances and conditions that either have been corrected or are no longer in existence. If an individual was excluded from a resource family home or facility licensed by the department, the county shall cease review of the individuals application unless the excluded individual has been reinstated pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 16519.6 of this code or pursuant to Section 1569.53, subdivision (h) of Section 1558, subdivision (h) of Section 1569.58, or subdivision (h) of Section 1596.8897, of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 4084 | 4100 | | |
|---|
| 4085 | 4101 | | (C) (i) The county may cease any further review of an application if, after written notice to the applicant, the applicant fails to complete an application without good faith effort and within 30 days of the date of the notice, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 4086 | 4102 | | |
|---|
| 4087 | 4103 | | (ii) Clause (i) does not apply if a child is placed with the applicant pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, 727.05, or paragraph (1) of subdivision (e) of Section 16519.5. |
|---|
| 4088 | 4104 | | |
|---|
| 4089 | 4105 | | (D) The cessation of an application review pursuant to this paragraph shall not constitute a denial of the application for purposes of this section or any other law. |
|---|
| 4090 | 4106 | | |
|---|
| 4091 | 4107 | | (E) For purposes of this section, the date of a previous denial, rescission, revocation, exemption denial or exemption rescission, or exclusion shall be either of the following: |
|---|
| 4092 | 4108 | | |
|---|
| 4093 | 4109 | | (i) The effective date of a final decision or order upholding a notice of action or exclusion order. |
|---|
| 4094 | 4110 | | |
|---|
| 4095 | 4111 | | (ii) The date on the notice of the decision to deny, rescind, revoke, or exclude if the notice was not appealed or otherwise constitutes a final decision. |
|---|
| 4096 | 4112 | | |
|---|
| 4097 | 4113 | | (8) A resource family shall meet the approval standards set forth in this section, and, as applicable, Chapter 6.3 (commencing with Section 18360) of Part 6, to maintain approval. A resource family shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section and applicable laws in order to maintain approval. |
|---|
| 4098 | 4114 | | |
|---|
| 4099 | 4115 | | (9) A resource family may be approved by a county child welfare department or a probation department pursuant to this section or by a foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 4100 | 4116 | | |
|---|
| 4101 | 4117 | | (10) A resource family shall not be licensed to operate a residential facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the Health and Safety Code, a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in Section 1569.2 of the Health and Safety Code, or a residential care facility for persons with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as defined in Section 1568.01 of the Health and Safety Code, on the same premises used as the residence of the resource family. |
|---|
| 4102 | 4118 | | |
|---|
| 4103 | 4119 | | (11) (A) An applicant who withdraws an application prior to its approval or denial may resubmit the application within 12 months of the withdrawal. |
|---|
| 4104 | 4120 | | |
|---|
| 4105 | 4121 | | (B) This paragraph does not preclude a county from requiring an applicant to complete an application activity, even if that activity was previously completed. |
|---|
| 4106 | 4122 | | |
|---|
| 4107 | 4123 | | (d) (1) The department shall adopt standards pertaining to the home environment and permanency assessments of a resource family. |
|---|
| 4108 | 4124 | | |
|---|
| 4109 | 4125 | | (2) Resource family home environment assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 4110 | 4126 | | |
|---|
| 4111 | 4127 | | (A) (i) (I) A criminal record clearance of each applicant and all adults residing in, or regularly present in, the home, and not exempted from fingerprinting, as set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code, utilizing a check of the Child Abuse Central Index pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, and receipt of a fingerprint-based state and federal criminal offender record information search response. The criminal history information shall include subsequent notifications pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code. |
|---|
| 4112 | 4128 | | |
|---|
| 4113 | 4129 | | (II) Consideration of any substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against the applicant and any other adult residing in, or regularly present in, the home pursuant to Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 4114 | 4130 | | |
|---|
| 4115 | 4131 | | (III) If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, home approval shall be denied. If the criminal records check indicates that the person has been convicted of an offense described in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, the home shall not be approved unless a criminal records exemption has been granted pursuant to subclause (IV). |
|---|
| 4116 | 4132 | | |
|---|
| 4117 | 4133 | | (IV) If the resource family parent, applicant, or any other person specified in subclause (I) has been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation or arrested for an offense specified in subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the civil penalty language, the criminal background check provisions specified in subdivisions (d) through (f) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code shall apply. Exemptions from the criminal records clearance requirements set forth in this section may be granted by the department or the county, if that county has been granted permission by the department to issue criminal records exemptions pursuant to Section 361.4, using the exemption criteria currently used for foster care licensing, as specified in subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 4118 | 4134 | | |
|---|
| 4119 | 4135 | | (V) If it is determined, on the basis of the fingerprint images and related information submitted to the Department of Justice, that subsequent to obtaining a criminal record clearance or exemption from disqualification, the person has been convicted of, or is awaiting trial for, a sex offense against a minor, or has been convicted for an offense specified in Section 243.4, 273a, 273ab, 273d, 273g, or 368 of the Penal Code, or a felony, the department or county shall notify the resource family to act immediately to remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home. The department or county, as applicable, may subsequently grant an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. If the conviction or arrest was for another crime, the resource family shall, upon notification by the department or county, act immediately to either remove or bar the person from entering the resource familys home, or require the person to seek an exemption from disqualification pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. The department or county, as applicable, shall determine if the person shall be allowed to remain in the home until a decision on the exemption from disqualification is rendered. |
|---|
| 4120 | 4136 | | |
|---|
| 4121 | 4137 | | (ii) For public foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized. |
|---|
| 4122 | 4138 | | |
|---|
| 4123 | 4139 | | (iii) For private foster family agencies approving resource families, the criminal records clearance process set forth in clause (i) shall be utilized, but the Department of Justice shall disseminate a fitness determination resulting from the federal criminal offender record information search. |
|---|
| 4124 | 4140 | | |
|---|
| 4125 | 4141 | | (B) A home and grounds evaluation to ensure the health and safety of children. |
|---|
| 4126 | 4142 | | |
|---|
| 4127 | 4143 | | (C) In addition to the foregoing requirements, the resource family home environment assessment standards shall require the following: |
|---|
| 4128 | 4144 | | |
|---|
| 4129 | 4145 | | (i) That the applicant demonstrates an understanding of the rights of children in care and the applicants responsibility to safeguard those rights. |
|---|
| 4130 | 4146 | | |
|---|
| 4131 | 4147 | | (ii) That the total number of children residing in the home of a resource family shall be no more than the total number of children the resource family can properly care for, regardless of status, and shall not exceed six children, unless exceptional circumstances that are documented in the foster childs case file exist to permit a resource family to care for more children, including, but not limited to, the need to place siblings together. |
|---|
| 4132 | 4148 | | |
|---|
| 4133 | 4149 | | (iii) That the applicant understands the applicants responsibilities with respect to acting as a reasonable and prudent parent, and maintaining the least restrictive environment that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 4134 | 4150 | | |
|---|
| 4135 | 4151 | | (3) The resource family permanency assessment standards shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 4136 | 4152 | | |
|---|
| 4137 | 4153 | | (A) Caregiver training, as described in subdivisions (g) and (h). |
|---|
| 4138 | 4154 | | |
|---|
| 4139 | 4155 | | (B) A family evaluation, which shall include, but not be limited to, interviews of an applicant to assess the applicants personal history, family dynamic, and need for support or resources, and a risk assessment. |
|---|
| 4140 | 4156 | | |
|---|
| 4141 | 4157 | | (i) When the applicant is a relative or nonrelative extended family member to an identified child, the family evaluation shall consider the nature of the relationship between the relative or nonrelative extended family member and the child. The relative or nonrelative extended family members expressed desire to only care for a specific child or children shall not be a reason to deny the approval. |
|---|
| 4142 | 4158 | | |
|---|
| 4143 | 4159 | | (ii) A caregiver risk assessment shall include, but not be limited to, physical and mental health, alcohol and other substance use and abuse, family and domestic violence, and the factors listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c). |
|---|
| 4144 | 4160 | | |
|---|
| 4145 | 4161 | | (iii) A county may review and discuss data contained in the statewide child welfare database with an applicant for purposes of conducting a family evaluation, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 4146 | 4162 | | |
|---|
| 4147 | 4163 | | (C) Completion of any other activities that relate to the ability of an applicant or a resource family to achieve permanency with a child. |
|---|
| 4148 | 4164 | | |
|---|
| 4149 | 4165 | | (4) (A) For a child placed on an emergency basis pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, the home environment assessment, the permanency assessment, and the written report shall be completed within 90 days of the placement, unless good cause exists based upon the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 4150 | 4166 | | |
|---|
| 4151 | 4167 | | (B) If additional time is needed to complete the home environment assessment or the permanency assessment, the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of those assessments. |
|---|
| 4152 | 4168 | | |
|---|
| 4153 | 4169 | | (C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of families with emergency placements whose home environment assessment or permanency assessment goes beyond 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays. |
|---|
| 4154 | 4170 | | |
|---|
| 4155 | 4171 | | (e) (1) A county may place a child with a resource family applicant who has successfully completed the home environment assessment prior to completion of a permanency assessment only if a compelling reason for the placement exists based on the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 4156 | 4172 | | |
|---|
| 4157 | 4173 | | (A) The permanency assessment and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g) shall be completed within 90 days of the childs placement in the home, unless good cause exists. |
|---|
| 4158 | 4174 | | |
|---|
| 4159 | 4175 | | (B) If additional time is needed to comply with subparagraph (A), the county shall document the extenuating circumstances for the delay and generate a timeframe for the completion of the permanency assessment. |
|---|
| 4160 | 4176 | | |
|---|
| 4161 | 4177 | | (C) The county shall report to the department, on a quarterly basis, the number of applicants for whom the requirements of subparagraph (A) exceed 90 days and summarize the reasons for these delays. |
|---|
| 4162 | 4178 | | |
|---|
| 4163 | 4179 | | (2) The home environment and permanency assessments, and the written report described in paragraph (5) of subdivision (g), shall be completed within 90 days of a childs placement with a relative or nonrelative extended family member pursuant to Section 309, 361.45, or 727.05, unless good cause exists. |
|---|
| 4164 | 4180 | | |
|---|
| 4165 | 4181 | | (3) For any placement made pursuant to this subdivision, AFDC-FC funding shall not be available until approval of the resource family has been completed. |
|---|
| 4166 | 4182 | | |
|---|
| 4167 | 4183 | | (4) Any child placed pursuant to this subdivision shall be afforded all the rights set forth in Section 16001.9. |
|---|
| 4168 | 4184 | | |
|---|
| 4169 | 4185 | | (5) This section shall not limit the countys authority to inspect the home of a resource family applicant as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided. |
|---|
| 4170 | 4186 | | |
|---|
| 4171 | 4187 | | (6) This subdivision does not limit the countys obligation under law to assess and give placement consideration to relatives and nonrelative extended family members and to place a child pursuant to Section 309, 361.3, 361.45, 706.6, or 727.1. |
|---|
| 4172 | 4188 | | |
|---|
| 4173 | 4189 | | (f) The State Department of Social Services shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 4174 | 4190 | | |
|---|
| 4175 | 4191 | | (1) (A) Until regulations are adopted, administering the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340)) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. |
|---|
| 4176 | 4192 | | |
|---|
| 4177 | 4193 | | (B) Adopting, amending, or repealing, in accordance with Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, any reasonable rules, regulations, and standards that may be necessary or proper to carry out the purposes and intent of this article and to enable the department to exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this section, consistent with the laws of this state. |
|---|
| 4178 | 4194 | | |
|---|
| 4179 | 4195 | | (2) Approving and requiring the use of a single standard for resource family approval. |
|---|
| 4180 | 4196 | | |
|---|
| 4181 | 4197 | | (3) Adopting and requiring the use of standardized documentation for the home environment and permanency assessments of resource families. |
|---|
| 4182 | 4198 | | |
|---|
| 4183 | 4199 | | (4) Adopting core competencies for county staff to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family. |
|---|
| 4184 | 4200 | | |
|---|
| 4185 | 4201 | | (5) Requiring counties to monitor county-approved resource families, including, but not limited to, both of the following: |
|---|
| 4186 | 4202 | | |
|---|
| 4187 | 4203 | | (A) Investigating complaints regarding resource families. |
|---|
| 4188 | 4204 | | |
|---|
| 4189 | 4205 | | (B) Developing and monitoring resource family corrective action plans to correct identified deficiencies and to rescind resource family approval if compliance with corrective action plans is not achieved. |
|---|
| 4190 | 4206 | | |
|---|
| 4191 | 4207 | | (6) Ongoing oversight and monitoring of county systems and operations including all of the following: |
|---|
| 4192 | 4208 | | |
|---|
| 4193 | 4209 | | (A) Reviewing the countys implementation plan and implementation of the program. |
|---|
| 4194 | 4210 | | |
|---|
| 4195 | 4211 | | (B) Reviewing an adequate number of county-approved resource families in each county to ensure that approval standards are being properly applied. The review shall include case file documentation and may include onsite inspection of individual resource families. The review shall occur on an annual basis and more frequently if the department becomes aware that a county is experiencing a disproportionate number of complaints against individual resource family homes. |
|---|
| 4196 | 4212 | | |
|---|
| 4197 | 4213 | | (C) Reviewing county reports of serious complaints and incidents involving resource families, as determined necessary by the department. The department may conduct an independent review of the complaint or incident and change the findings depending on the results of its investigation. |
|---|
| 4198 | 4214 | | |
|---|
| 4199 | 4215 | | (D) Investigating unresolved complaints against counties. |
|---|
| 4200 | 4216 | | |
|---|
| 4201 | 4217 | | (E) Requiring corrective action of counties that are not in full compliance with this section. |
|---|
| 4202 | 4218 | | |
|---|
| 4203 | 4219 | | (7) Excluding a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61. |
|---|
| 4204 | 4220 | | |
|---|
| 4205 | 4221 | | (8) Implementing due process procedures, including, but not limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 4206 | 4222 | | |
|---|
| 4207 | 4223 | | (A) Providing a statewide fair hearing process for application denials, rescissions of approval, exclusion actions, or criminal record exemption denials or rescissions by a county or the department. |
|---|
| 4208 | 4224 | | |
|---|
| 4209 | 4225 | | (B) Providing an excluded individual with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6. |
|---|
| 4210 | 4226 | | |
|---|
| 4211 | 4227 | | (C) Amending the departments applicable state hearing procedures and regulations or using the Administrative Procedure Act, when applicable, as necessary for the administration of the program. |
|---|
| 4212 | 4228 | | |
|---|
| 4213 | 4229 | | (g) Counties shall be responsible for all of the following: |
|---|
| 4214 | 4230 | | |
|---|
| 4215 | 4231 | | (1) Submitting an implementation plan and consulting with the county probation department in the development of the implementation plan. |
|---|
| 4216 | 4232 | | |
|---|
| 4217 | 4233 | | (2) Complying with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 4218 | 4234 | | |
|---|
| 4219 | 4235 | | (3) Implementing the requirements for resource family approval and utilizing standardized documentation established by the department. |
|---|
| 4220 | 4236 | | |
|---|
| 4221 | 4237 | | (4) Training appropriate staff, including ensuring staff have the education and experience or core competencies necessary to participate in the assessment and evaluation of an applicant or resource family. |
|---|
| 4222 | 4238 | | |
|---|
| 4223 | 4239 | | (5) (A) Taking the following actions, as applicable, for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61: |
|---|
| 4224 | 4240 | | |
|---|
| 4225 | 4241 | | (i) (I) Approving or denying resource family applications, including preparing a written report that evaluates an applicants capacity to foster, adopt, and provide legal guardianship of a child based on all of the information gathered through the resource family application and assessment processes. |
|---|
| 4226 | 4242 | | |
|---|
| 4227 | 4243 | | (II) The applicants preference to provide a specific level of permanency, including adoption, guardianship, or, in the case of a relative, placement with a fit and willing relative, shall not be a basis to deny an application. |
|---|
| 4228 | 4244 | | |
|---|
| 4229 | 4245 | | (ii) Rescinding approvals of resource families. |
|---|
| 4230 | 4246 | | |
|---|
| 4231 | 4247 | | (iii) When applicable, referring a case to the department for an action to exclude a resource family parent, applicant, or other individual from presence in any resource family home, consistent with the established standard. |
|---|
| 4232 | 4248 | | |
|---|
| 4233 | 4249 | | (iv) Issuing a temporary suspension order that suspends the resource family approval prior to a hearing when, in the opinion of the county, urgent action is needed to protect a child from physical or mental abuse, abandonment, or any other substantial threat to health or safety. The county shall serve the resource family with the temporary suspension order and a copy of available discovery in the possession of the county, including, but not limited to, affidavits, declarations, names of witnesses, and other evidence upon which the county relied in issuing the temporary suspension order. The temporary suspension order shall be served upon the resource family with a notice of action, and if the matter is to be heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings, an accusation. The temporary suspension order shall list the effective date on the order. |
|---|
| 4234 | 4250 | | |
|---|
| 4235 | 4251 | | (v) Granting, denying, or rescinding criminal record exemptions. |
|---|
| 4236 | 4252 | | |
|---|
| 4237 | 4253 | | (B) Providing a resource family parent, applicant, or individual who is the subject of a criminal record exemption denial or rescission with due process pursuant to Section 16519.6. |
|---|
| 4238 | 4254 | | |
|---|
| 4239 | 4255 | | (C) Notifying the department of any decisions denying an application for resource family approval, rescinding the approval of a resource family, or denying or rescinding a criminal record exemption and, if applicable, notifying the department of the results of an administrative action. |
|---|
| 4240 | 4256 | | |
|---|
| 4241 | 4257 | | (6) (A) Updating resource family approval annually and as necessary to address any changes that have occurred in the resource familys circumstances, including, but not limited to, moving to a new home location or commencing operation of a family daycare home, as defined in Section 1596.78 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 4242 | 4258 | | |
|---|
| 4243 | 4259 | | (B) A county shall conduct an announced inspection of a resource family home during the annual update, and as necessary to address any changes specified in subparagraph (A), in order to ensure that the resource family is conforming to all applicable laws and the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 4244 | 4260 | | |
|---|
| 4245 | 4261 | | (7) Monitoring resource families through all of the following: |
|---|
| 4246 | 4262 | | |
|---|
| 4247 | 4263 | | (A) Ensuring that social workers who identify a condition in the home that may not meet the approval standards set forth in subdivision (d) while in the course of a routine visit to children placed with a resource family take appropriate action as needed. |
|---|
| 4248 | 4264 | | |
|---|
| 4249 | 4265 | | (B) Requiring resource families to meet the approval standards set forth in this section and to comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to this section, other applicable laws, and corrective action plans as necessary to correct identified deficiencies. If corrective action is not completed, as specified in the plan, the county may rescind the resource family approval. |
|---|
| 4250 | 4266 | | |
|---|
| 4251 | 4267 | | (C) Requiring resource families to report to the county child welfare agency any incidents consistent with the reporting requirements for licensed foster family homes. |
|---|
| 4252 | 4268 | | |
|---|
| 4253 | 4269 | | (D) Inspecting resource family homes as often as necessary to ensure the quality of care provided. |
|---|
| 4254 | 4270 | | |
|---|
| 4255 | 4271 | | (8) (A) Investigating all complaints against a resource family and taking action as necessary, including, but not limited to, investigating any incidents reported about a resource family indicating that the approval standard is not being maintained and inspecting the resource family home. |
|---|
| 4256 | 4272 | | |
|---|
| 4257 | 4273 | | (B) The childs social worker shall not conduct the investigation into the complaint received concerning a family providing services pursuant to the standards required by subdivision (d). To the extent that adequate resources are available, complaints shall be investigated by a worker who did not conduct the home environment assessment or family evaluation or prepare the written report determining approval of the resource family. |
|---|
| 4258 | 4274 | | |
|---|
| 4259 | 4275 | | (C) Upon conclusion of the complaint investigation, the final disposition shall be reviewed and approved by a supervising staff member. |
|---|
| 4260 | 4276 | | |
|---|
| 4261 | 4277 | | (D) The department shall be notified of any serious incidents or serious complaints or any incident that falls within the definition of Section 11165.5 of the Penal Code. If those incidents or complaints result in an investigation, the department shall also be notified as to the status and disposition of that investigation. |
|---|
| 4262 | 4278 | | |
|---|
| 4263 | 4279 | | (9) Performing corrective action as required by the department. |
|---|
| 4264 | 4280 | | |
|---|
| 4265 | 4281 | | (10) Assessing county performance in related areas of the California Child and Family Services Review System, and remedying problems identified. |
|---|
| 4266 | 4282 | | |
|---|
| 4267 | 4283 | | (11) Submitting information and data that the department determines is necessary to study, monitor, and prepare the update specified in paragraph (7) of subdivision (f). |
|---|
| 4268 | 4284 | | |
|---|
| 4269 | 4285 | | (12) Ensuring resource family applicants and resource families have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to support children in foster care by completing caregiver training. The training should include a curriculum that supports the role of a resource family in parenting vulnerable children and should be ongoing in order to provide resource families with information on trauma-informed practices and requirements and other topics within the foster care system. |
|---|
| 4270 | 4286 | | |
|---|
| 4271 | 4287 | | (13) Ensuring that a resource family applicant completes a minimum of 12 hours of preapproval caregiver training. The training shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following courses: |
|---|
| 4272 | 4288 | | |
|---|
| 4273 | 4289 | | (A) An overview of the child protective and probation systems. |
|---|
| 4274 | 4290 | | |
|---|
| 4275 | 4291 | | (B) The effects of trauma, including grief and loss, and child abuse and neglect, on child development and behavior, and methods to behaviorally support children impacted by that trauma or child abuse and neglect. |
|---|
| 4276 | 4292 | | |
|---|
| 4277 | 4293 | | (C) Positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem. |
|---|
| 4278 | 4294 | | |
|---|
| 4279 | 4295 | | (D) Health issues in foster care. |
|---|
| 4280 | 4296 | | |
|---|
| 4281 | 4297 | | (E) Accessing services and supports to address education needs, physical, mental, and behavioral health, and substance use disorders, including culturally relevant services. |
|---|
| 4282 | 4298 | | |
|---|
| 4283 | 4299 | | (F) The rights of a child in foster care and the resource familys responsibility to safeguard those rights, including the right to have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and to not be subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, or HIV status. |
|---|
| 4284 | 4300 | | |
|---|
| 4285 | 4301 | | (G) Cultural needs of children, including instruction on cultural competency and sensitivity, and related best practices for providing adequate care for children or youth across diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, as well as children or youth identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. |
|---|
| 4286 | 4302 | | |
|---|
| 4287 | 4303 | | (H) Basic instruction on existing laws and procedures regarding the safety of foster youth at school. |
|---|
| 4288 | 4304 | | |
|---|
| 4289 | 4305 | | (I) Permanence, well-being, and education needs of children. |
|---|
| 4290 | 4306 | | |
|---|
| 4291 | 4307 | | (J) Child and adolescent development, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. |
|---|
| 4292 | 4308 | | |
|---|
| 4293 | 4309 | | (K) The role of resource families, including working cooperatively with the child welfare or probation agency, the childs family, and other service providers implementing the case plan. |
|---|
| 4294 | 4310 | | |
|---|
| 4295 | 4311 | | (L) The role of a resource family on the child and family team as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16501. |
|---|
| 4296 | 4312 | | |
|---|
| 4297 | 4313 | | (M) A resource familys responsibility to act as a reasonable and prudent parent, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 1522.44 of the Health and Safety Code, and to provide a family setting that promotes normal childhood experiences and that serves the needs of the child. |
|---|
| 4298 | 4314 | | |
|---|
| 4299 | 4315 | | (N) An overview of the specialized training identified in subdivision (h). |
|---|
| 4300 | 4316 | | |
|---|
| 4301 | 4317 | | (O) The information described in subdivision (i) of Section 16521.5. The program may use the curriculum created pursuant to subdivision (h), and described in subdivision (i), of Section 16521.5. |
|---|
| 4302 | 4318 | | |
|---|
| 4303 | 4319 | | (P) Information on providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. For purposes of this subparagraph, information may include, but not be limited to, informational pamphlets addressing the identification of victims of commercial sexual exploitation and the provision of existing resources, such as crisis hotline numbers, survivor and caregiver supports, and contact information for law enforcement entities. |
|---|
| 4304 | 4320 | | |
|---|
| 4305 | 4321 | | (14) Ensuring resource families complete a minimum of eight hours of caregiver training annually, a portion of which shall be from subparagraph (M) of paragraph (13) and from one or more of the other topics listed in paragraph (13). |
|---|
| 4306 | 4322 | | |
|---|
| 4307 | 4323 | | (15) (A) Ensuring that resource families that care for children who are 10 years of age or older attend, within 12 months of approval as a resource family, a training on understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. This training shall be survivor informed, culturally relevant and appropriate, and address issues relating to stigma. The training required by this subparagraph shall address all of the following topics: |
|---|
| 4308 | 4324 | | |
|---|
| 4309 | 4325 | | (i) Recognizing indicators of commercial sexual exploitation. |
|---|
| 4310 | 4326 | | |
|---|
| 4311 | 4327 | | (ii) Harm reduction. |
|---|
| 4312 | 4328 | | |
|---|
| 4313 | 4329 | | (iii) Trauma-informed care. |
|---|
| 4314 | 4330 | | |
|---|
| 4315 | 4331 | | (iv) Available county and state resources. |
|---|
| 4316 | 4332 | | |
|---|
| 4317 | 4333 | | (v) Perspectives of individuals or families who have experiences with commercial sexual exploitation. |
|---|
| 4318 | 4334 | | |
|---|
| 4319 | 4335 | | (B) The information provided in subparagraph (P) of paragraph (13) shall also be provided during the training described in this paragraph. |
|---|
| 4320 | 4336 | | |
|---|
| 4321 | 4337 | | (C) After completing the training required by subparagraph (A), a resource family shall not be required to attend training relating to children who have been commercially sexually exploited. |
|---|
| 4322 | 4338 | | |
|---|
| 4323 | 4339 | | (D) Nothing in this section prevents an entity from providing the training specified in this paragraph in person, virtually, by recorded means, or by any other available means. |
|---|
| 4324 | 4340 | | |
|---|
| 4325 | 4341 | | (h) In addition to any training required by this section, a county may require a resource family or applicant to receive relevant specialized training for the purpose of preparing the resource family to meet the needs of a particular child in care. This training may include, but is not limited to, the following: |
|---|
| 4326 | 4342 | | |
|---|
| 4327 | 4343 | | (1) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to commercially sexually exploited children. |
|---|
| 4328 | 4344 | | |
|---|
| 4329 | 4345 | | (2) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender children. |
|---|
| 4330 | 4346 | | |
|---|
| 4331 | 4347 | | (3) Understanding the requirements and best practices regarding psychotropic medications, including, but not limited to, court authorization, benefits, uses, side effects, interactions, assistance with self-administration, misuse, documentation, storage, and metabolic monitoring of children prescribed psychotropic medications. |
|---|
| 4332 | 4348 | | |
|---|
| 4333 | 4349 | | (4) Understanding the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.), its historical significance, the rights of children covered by the act, and the best interests of Indian children, including the role of the caregiver in supporting culturally appropriate, child-centered practices that respect Native American history, culture, retention of tribal membership, and connection to the tribal community and traditions. |
|---|
| 4334 | 4350 | | |
|---|
| 4335 | 4351 | | (5) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to nonminor dependents. |
|---|
| 4336 | 4352 | | |
|---|
| 4337 | 4353 | | (6) Understanding how to use best practices for providing care and supervision to children with special health care needs. |
|---|
| 4338 | 4354 | | |
|---|
| 4339 | 4355 | | (7) Understanding the different permanency options and the services and benefits associated with the options. |
|---|
| 4340 | 4356 | | |
|---|
| 4341 | 4357 | | (i) This section shall not preclude a county from requiring training in excess of the requirements in this section. |
|---|
| 4342 | 4358 | | |
|---|
| 4343 | 4359 | | (j) (1) Resource families who move home locations shall retain their resource family status pending the outcome of the update conducted pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (g). |
|---|
| 4344 | 4360 | | |
|---|
| 4345 | 4361 | | (2) (A) If a resource family moves from one county to another county, the department, or the county to which a resource family has moved, shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer the individuals subsequent arrest notification, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 4346 | 4362 | | |
|---|
| 4347 | 4363 | | (B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice. |
|---|
| 4348 | 4364 | | |
|---|
| 4349 | 4365 | | (3) Subject to the requirements in paragraph (1), the resource family shall continue to be approved for guardianship and adoption. This subdivision shall not limit a county, foster family agency, or adoption agency from determining that the family is not approved for guardianship or adoption based on changes in the familys circumstances or family evaluation. |
|---|
| 4350 | 4366 | | |
|---|
| 4351 | 4367 | | (k) Implementation of the program shall be contingent upon the continued availability of federal Social Security Act Title IV-E (42 U.S.C. Sec. 670) funds for costs associated with placement of children with resource families assessed and approved pursuant to the program. |
|---|
| 4352 | 4368 | | |
|---|
| 4353 | 4369 | | (l) A child placed with a resource family is eligible for the resource family basic rate, pursuant to Sections 11460, 11461, 11461.3, and 11463, at the childs assessed level of care. |
|---|
| 4354 | 4370 | | |
|---|
| 4355 | 4371 | | (m) Sharing ratios for nonfederal expenditures for all costs associated with activities related to the approval of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be in accordance with Section 10101. |
|---|
| 4356 | 4372 | | |
|---|
| 4357 | 4373 | | (n) The Department of Justice shall charge fees sufficient to cover the cost of initial or subsequent criminal offender record information and Child Abuse Central Index searches, processing, or responses, as specified in this section. |
|---|
| 4358 | 4374 | | |
|---|
| 4359 | 4375 | | (o) Except as provided, resource families shall be exempt from both of the following: |
|---|
| 4360 | 4376 | | |
|---|
| 4361 | 4377 | | (1) Licensure requirements established pursuant to the California Community Care Facilities Act (Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code) and all regulations promulgated to implement the act. |
|---|
| 4362 | 4378 | | |
|---|
| 4363 | 4379 | | (2) Relative and nonrelative extended family member approval requirements as those approval requirements existed prior to January 1, 2017. |
|---|
| 4364 | 4380 | | |
|---|
| 4365 | 4381 | | (p) (1) Early implementation counties shall be authorized to continue through December 31, 2016. The program shall be implemented by each county on or before January 1, 2017. |
|---|
| 4366 | 4382 | | |
|---|
| 4367 | 4383 | | (2) (A) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county to which the department has delegated its licensing authority pursuant to Section 1511 of the Health and Safety Code shall approve resource families in lieu of licensing foster family homes. |
|---|
| 4368 | 4384 | | |
|---|
| 4369 | 4385 | | (ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing licensure and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for foster family homes licensed prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the license is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 4370 | 4386 | | |
|---|
| 4371 | 4387 | | (B) (i) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall approve resource families in lieu of approving relative and nonrelative extended family members. |
|---|
| 4372 | 4388 | | |
|---|
| 4373 | 4389 | | (ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), the existing approval and oversight processes shall continue to be administered for relatives and nonrelative extended family members approved prior to January 1, 2017, or as specified in subparagraph (C), until the approval is revoked or forfeited by operation of law pursuant to this section. |
|---|
| 4374 | 4390 | | |
|---|
| 4375 | 4391 | | (C) Notwithstanding subparagraph (D), a county shall approve or deny all applications for foster family home licenses and requests for relative or nonrelative extended family member approvals received on or before December 31, 2016, in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or provisions providing for the approval of relatives or nonrelative extended family members, as applicable. |
|---|
| 4376 | 4392 | | |
|---|
| 4377 | 4393 | | (D) On and after January 1, 2017, a county shall not accept applications for foster family home licenses or requests to approve relatives or nonrelative extended family members. |
|---|
| 4378 | 4394 | | |
|---|
| 4379 | 4395 | | (3) No later than July 1, 2019, each county shall provide the following information to all licensed foster family homes and approved relatives and nonrelative extended family members licensed or approved by the county: |
|---|
| 4380 | 4396 | | |
|---|
| 4381 | 4397 | | (A) A detailed description of the resource family approval program. |
|---|
| 4382 | 4398 | | |
|---|
| 4383 | 4399 | | (B) Notification that, in order to care for a foster child, resource family approval is required by December 31, 2020. |
|---|
| 4384 | 4400 | | |
|---|
| 4385 | 4401 | | (C) Notification that a foster family home license and an approval of a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law, as specified in paragraph (8). |
|---|
| 4386 | 4402 | | |
|---|
| 4387 | 4403 | | (4) The following shall apply to all licensed foster family homes and approved relative and nonrelative extended family members: |
|---|
| 4388 | 4404 | | |
|---|
| 4389 | 4405 | | (A) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member with an approved adoptive home study completed prior to January 1, 2018, shall be deemed to be a resource family. |
|---|
| 4390 | 4406 | | |
|---|
| 4391 | 4407 | | (B) A licensed foster family home or an approved relative or nonrelative extended family member who had a child in placement at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation. |
|---|
| 4392 | 4408 | | |
|---|
| 4393 | 4409 | | (C) A licensed foster family home that provided county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, may be approved as a resource family on the date of successful completion of a family evaluation. |
|---|
| 4394 | 4410 | | |
|---|
| 4395 | 4411 | | (5) A county may provide supportive services to all licensed foster family homes, relatives, and nonrelative extended family members with a child in placement to assist with the resource family transition and to minimize placement disruptions. |
|---|
| 4396 | 4412 | | |
|---|
| 4397 | 4413 | | (6) (A) In order to approve a licensed foster family home or approved relative or nonrelative extended family member as a resource family pursuant to paragraph (4), a county shall submit a written request to the Department of Justice to transfer any subsequent arrest and Child Abuse Central Index notifications, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 4398 | 4414 | | |
|---|
| 4399 | 4415 | | (B) A request to transfer a subsequent arrest notification shall contain all prescribed data elements and format protocols pursuant to a written agreement between the department and the Department of Justice. |
|---|
| 4400 | 4416 | | |
|---|
| 4401 | 4417 | | (7) An individual who is a member of a resource family approved pursuant to subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (4) shall be fingerprinted pursuant to Section 8712 of the Family Code upon filing an application for adoption. |
|---|
| 4402 | 4418 | | |
|---|
| 4403 | 4419 | | (8) All foster family licenses and approvals of relatives and nonrelative extended family members shall be forfeited by operation of law on December 31, 2020, except as provided in this paragraph or Section 1524 of the Health and Safety Code: |
|---|
| 4404 | 4420 | | |
|---|
| 4405 | 4421 | | (A) All licensed foster family homes that did not have a child in placement or did not provide county-authorized respite services at any time between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, inclusive, shall forfeit the license by operation of law on January 1, 2018. |
|---|
| 4406 | 4422 | | |
|---|
| 4407 | 4423 | | (B) For foster family home licensees and approved relatives or nonrelative extended family members who have a pending resource family application on December 31, 2020, the foster family home license or relative and nonrelative extended family member approval shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. If approval is denied, forfeiture by operation of law shall occur on the date of completion of any proceedings required by law to ensure due process. |
|---|
| 4408 | 4424 | | |
|---|
| 4409 | 4425 | | (C) A foster family home license shall be forfeited by operation of law, pursuant to Section 1517.1 of the Health and Safety Code, upon approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 4410 | 4426 | | |
|---|
| 4411 | 4427 | | (D) Approval as a relative or nonrelative extended family member shall be forfeited by operation of law upon approval as a resource family. |
|---|
| 4412 | 4428 | | |
|---|
| 4413 | 4429 | | (q) On and after January 1, 2017, all licensed foster family agencies shall approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes, as set forth in Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 4414 | 4430 | | |
|---|
| 4415 | 4431 | | (r) The department may establish participation conditions, and select and authorize foster family agencies that voluntarily submit implementation plans and revised plans of operation in accordance with requirements established by the department, to approve resource families in lieu of certifying foster homes. |
|---|
| 4416 | 4432 | | |
|---|
| 4417 | 4433 | | (1) Notwithstanding any other law, a participating foster family agency shall require resource families to meet and maintain the resource family approval standards and requirements set forth in this chapter and in the written directives adopted consistent with the chapter prior to approval and in order to maintain approval. |
|---|
| 4418 | 4434 | | |
|---|
| 4419 | 4435 | | (2) A participating foster family agency shall implement the resource family approval program pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 4420 | 4436 | | |
|---|
| 4421 | 4437 | | (3) This section does not limit the authority of the department to inspect, evaluate, or investigate a complaint or incident, or initiate a disciplinary action against a foster family agency pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1550) of Chapter 3 of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code, or to take any action it may deem necessary for the health and safety of children placed with the foster family agency. |
|---|
| 4422 | 4438 | | |
|---|
| 4423 | 4439 | | (4) The department may adjust the foster family agency AFDC-FC rate pursuant to Section 11463 for implementation of this subdivision. |
|---|
| 4424 | 4440 | | |
|---|
| 4425 | 4441 | | (5) This subdivision is inoperative on January 1, 2017. |
|---|
| 4426 | 4442 | | |
|---|
| 4427 | 4443 | | (s) The department or a county is authorized to obtain any arrest or conviction records or reports from any court or law enforcement agency as necessary to the performance of its duties, as provided in this section or subdivision (e) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 4428 | 4444 | | |
|---|
| 4429 | 4445 | | (t) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall forfeit its approval concurrent with resource family approval by a foster family agency. |
|---|
| 4430 | 4446 | | |
|---|
| 4431 | 4447 | | (u) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2021. |
|---|
| 4432 | 4448 | | |
|---|
| 4433 | 4449 | | SEC. 26. Section 16519.58 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:16519.58. (a) A resource family approved by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code may transfer their approval to a county upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete the following activities:(A) Submit to the county information necessary to initiate the transfer process on a form specified by the department.(B) Authorize the county to request that clearances and exemptions issued to the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home be transferred from the department to the county pursuant to subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(C) Cooperate with the county in conducting an approval update as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5.(2) The county shall complete the following activities:(A) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, submit a request to the Department of Justice as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5.(i) The county shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the licensed foster family agency.(ii) The licensed foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the county within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(b) A county may deny a resource familys request to transfer approval to a county for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61. If the county denies a resource familys request, the resource family shall be entitled to a hearing as specified in Section 16519.6.(c) Resource family approval by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code shall be forfeited by operation of law upon the transfer of the resource family approval to a county in accordance with this section.(d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Department means the State Department of Social Services.(2) County means a county child welfare or probation department. |
|---|
| 4434 | 4450 | | |
|---|
| 4435 | 4451 | | SEC. 26. Section 16519.58 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read: |
|---|
| 4436 | 4452 | | |
|---|
| 4437 | 4453 | | ### SEC. 26. |
|---|
| 4438 | 4454 | | |
|---|
| 4439 | 4455 | | 16519.58. (a) A resource family approved by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code may transfer their approval to a county upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete the following activities:(A) Submit to the county information necessary to initiate the transfer process on a form specified by the department.(B) Authorize the county to request that clearances and exemptions issued to the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home be transferred from the department to the county pursuant to subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(C) Cooperate with the county in conducting an approval update as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5.(2) The county shall complete the following activities:(A) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, submit a request to the Department of Justice as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5.(i) The county shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the licensed foster family agency.(ii) The licensed foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the county within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(b) A county may deny a resource familys request to transfer approval to a county for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61. If the county denies a resource familys request, the resource family shall be entitled to a hearing as specified in Section 16519.6.(c) Resource family approval by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code shall be forfeited by operation of law upon the transfer of the resource family approval to a county in accordance with this section.(d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Department means the State Department of Social Services.(2) County means a county child welfare or probation department. |
|---|
| 4440 | 4456 | | |
|---|
| 4441 | 4457 | | 16519.58. (a) A resource family approved by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code may transfer their approval to a county upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete the following activities:(A) Submit to the county information necessary to initiate the transfer process on a form specified by the department.(B) Authorize the county to request that clearances and exemptions issued to the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home be transferred from the department to the county pursuant to subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(C) Cooperate with the county in conducting an approval update as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5.(2) The county shall complete the following activities:(A) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, submit a request to the Department of Justice as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5.(i) The county shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the licensed foster family agency.(ii) The licensed foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the county within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(b) A county may deny a resource familys request to transfer approval to a county for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61. If the county denies a resource familys request, the resource family shall be entitled to a hearing as specified in Section 16519.6.(c) Resource family approval by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code shall be forfeited by operation of law upon the transfer of the resource family approval to a county in accordance with this section.(d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Department means the State Department of Social Services.(2) County means a county child welfare or probation department. |
|---|
| 4442 | 4458 | | |
|---|
| 4443 | 4459 | | 16519.58. (a) A resource family approved by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code may transfer their approval to a county upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:(1) The resource family shall complete the following activities:(A) Submit to the county information necessary to initiate the transfer process on a form specified by the department.(B) Authorize the county to request that clearances and exemptions issued to the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home be transferred from the department to the county pursuant to subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(C) Cooperate with the county in conducting an approval update as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5.(2) The county shall complete the following activities:(A) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, submit a request to the Department of Justice as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code.(B) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5.(i) The county shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the licensed foster family agency.(ii) The licensed foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the county within 20 business days of receipt of the request.(b) A county may deny a resource familys request to transfer approval to a county for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61. If the county denies a resource familys request, the resource family shall be entitled to a hearing as specified in Section 16519.6.(c) Resource family approval by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code shall be forfeited by operation of law upon the transfer of the resource family approval to a county in accordance with this section.(d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Department means the State Department of Social Services.(2) County means a county child welfare or probation department. |
|---|
| 4444 | 4460 | | |
|---|
| 4445 | 4461 | | |
|---|
| 4446 | 4462 | | |
|---|
| 4447 | 4463 | | 16519.58. (a) A resource family approved by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code may transfer their approval to a county upon the successful completion of activities, as specified by the department, which shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: |
|---|
| 4448 | 4464 | | |
|---|
| 4449 | 4465 | | (1) The resource family shall complete the following activities: |
|---|
| 4450 | 4466 | | |
|---|
| 4451 | 4467 | | (A) Submit to the county information necessary to initiate the transfer process on a form specified by the department. |
|---|
| 4452 | 4468 | | |
|---|
| 4453 | 4469 | | (B) Authorize the county to request that clearances and exemptions issued to the resource family and all adults residing or regularly present in the home be transferred from the department to the county pursuant to subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 4454 | 4470 | | |
|---|
| 4455 | 4471 | | (C) Cooperate with the county in conducting an approval update as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5. |
|---|
| 4456 | 4472 | | |
|---|
| 4457 | 4473 | | (2) The county shall complete the following activities: |
|---|
| 4458 | 4474 | | |
|---|
| 4459 | 4475 | | (A) With respect to notifications issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code and Section 1522.1 of the Health and Safety Code, submit a request to the Department of Justice as specified in paragraph (4) of subdivision (h) of Section 1522 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 4460 | 4476 | | |
|---|
| 4461 | 4477 | | (B) Complete an approval update for the resource family as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department pursuant to Section 16519.5. |
|---|
| 4462 | 4478 | | |
|---|
| 4463 | 4479 | | (i) The county shall request a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, from the licensed foster family agency. |
|---|
| 4464 | 4480 | | |
|---|
| 4465 | 4481 | | (ii) The licensed foster family agency shall forward a copy of the written report completed pursuant to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, any updates to the written report regarding the resource family, and documents in the resource family case record, including any updates to the resource family case record, as specified in the written directives or regulations adopted by the department, to the county within 20 business days of receipt of the request. |
|---|
| 4466 | 4482 | | |
|---|
| 4467 | 4483 | | (b) A county may deny a resource familys request to transfer approval to a county for any of the reasons specified in Section 16519.61. If the county denies a resource familys request, the resource family shall be entitled to a hearing as specified in Section 16519.6. |
|---|
| 4468 | 4484 | | |
|---|
| 4469 | 4485 | | (c) Resource family approval by a licensed foster family agency pursuant to Section 1517 or 1517.5 of the Health and Safety Code shall be forfeited by operation of law upon the transfer of the resource family approval to a county in accordance with this section. |
|---|
| 4470 | 4486 | | |
|---|
| 4471 | 4487 | | (d) A resource family approved pursuant to this section shall comply with the written directives or regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16519.5 and comply with other applicable federal and state laws in order to maintain approval. |
|---|
| 4472 | 4488 | | |
|---|
| 4473 | 4489 | | (e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply: |
|---|
| 4474 | 4490 | | |
|---|
| 4475 | 4491 | | (1) Department means the State Department of Social Services. |
|---|
| 4476 | 4492 | | |
|---|
| 4477 | 4493 | | (2) County means a county child welfare or probation department. |
|---|
| 4478 | 4494 | | |
|---|
| 4479 | 4495 | | SEC. 27. Section 18360.05 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:18360.05. (a) The department shall develop an intensive services foster care program that provides specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, the following:(1) Intensive services and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care.(2) Specialized health care needs, including those with special health care needs, as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 17710.(b) The department shall develop a program that includes a private nonprofit delivery model and a public delivery model.(c) The rate paid to an intensive services foster care resource family shall be the same whether it is paid through a licensed foster family agency model or public delivery model and shall be established pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463.(d) The rate paid to the foster family agency shall be developed pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463.(e) This chapter does not waive the requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 or Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code.(f) A licensed foster family agency or county that operates a public delivery model intensive services foster care program is not prohibited from also operating as a therapeutic foster care service model program agency.(g) A county that operates as a public delivery model shall submit to the department a program description that sets forth the manner in which it will substantially comply with the requirements of this chapter and Sections 11467, 11469.2, and 11469.3.(h) The department shall adopt regulations to implement this chapter. Until regulations are adopted, the department may administer the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code). |
|---|
| 4480 | 4496 | | |
|---|
| 4481 | 4497 | | SEC. 27. Section 18360.05 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read: |
|---|
| 4482 | 4498 | | |
|---|
| 4483 | 4499 | | ### SEC. 27. |
|---|
| 4484 | 4500 | | |
|---|
| 4485 | 4501 | | 18360.05. (a) The department shall develop an intensive services foster care program that provides specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, the following:(1) Intensive services and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care.(2) Specialized health care needs, including those with special health care needs, as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 17710.(b) The department shall develop a program that includes a private nonprofit delivery model and a public delivery model.(c) The rate paid to an intensive services foster care resource family shall be the same whether it is paid through a licensed foster family agency model or public delivery model and shall be established pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463.(d) The rate paid to the foster family agency shall be developed pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463.(e) This chapter does not waive the requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 or Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code.(f) A licensed foster family agency or county that operates a public delivery model intensive services foster care program is not prohibited from also operating as a therapeutic foster care service model program agency.(g) A county that operates as a public delivery model shall submit to the department a program description that sets forth the manner in which it will substantially comply with the requirements of this chapter and Sections 11467, 11469.2, and 11469.3.(h) The department shall adopt regulations to implement this chapter. Until regulations are adopted, the department may administer the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code). |
|---|
| 4486 | 4502 | | |
|---|
| 4487 | 4503 | | 18360.05. (a) The department shall develop an intensive services foster care program that provides specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, the following:(1) Intensive services and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care.(2) Specialized health care needs, including those with special health care needs, as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 17710.(b) The department shall develop a program that includes a private nonprofit delivery model and a public delivery model.(c) The rate paid to an intensive services foster care resource family shall be the same whether it is paid through a licensed foster family agency model or public delivery model and shall be established pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463.(d) The rate paid to the foster family agency shall be developed pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463.(e) This chapter does not waive the requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 or Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code.(f) A licensed foster family agency or county that operates a public delivery model intensive services foster care program is not prohibited from also operating as a therapeutic foster care service model program agency.(g) A county that operates as a public delivery model shall submit to the department a program description that sets forth the manner in which it will substantially comply with the requirements of this chapter and Sections 11467, 11469.2, and 11469.3.(h) The department shall adopt regulations to implement this chapter. Until regulations are adopted, the department may administer the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code). |
|---|
| 4488 | 4504 | | |
|---|
| 4489 | 4505 | | 18360.05. (a) The department shall develop an intensive services foster care program that provides specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, the following:(1) Intensive services and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care.(2) Specialized health care needs, including those with special health care needs, as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 17710.(b) The department shall develop a program that includes a private nonprofit delivery model and a public delivery model.(c) The rate paid to an intensive services foster care resource family shall be the same whether it is paid through a licensed foster family agency model or public delivery model and shall be established pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463.(d) The rate paid to the foster family agency shall be developed pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463.(e) This chapter does not waive the requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 or Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code.(f) A licensed foster family agency or county that operates a public delivery model intensive services foster care program is not prohibited from also operating as a therapeutic foster care service model program agency.(g) A county that operates as a public delivery model shall submit to the department a program description that sets forth the manner in which it will substantially comply with the requirements of this chapter and Sections 11467, 11469.2, and 11469.3.(h) The department shall adopt regulations to implement this chapter. Until regulations are adopted, the department may administer the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code). |
|---|
| 4490 | 4506 | | |
|---|
| 4491 | 4507 | | |
|---|
| 4492 | 4508 | | |
|---|
| 4493 | 4509 | | 18360.05. (a) The department shall develop an intensive services foster care program that provides specialized programs to serve children with specific needs, including, but not limited to, the following: |
|---|
| 4494 | 4510 | | |
|---|
| 4495 | 4511 | | (1) Intensive services and behavioral needs, including those currently being served under intensive treatment foster care. |
|---|
| 4496 | 4512 | | |
|---|
| 4497 | 4513 | | (2) Specialized health care needs, including those with special health care needs, as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 17710. |
|---|
| 4498 | 4514 | | |
|---|
| 4499 | 4515 | | (b) The department shall develop a program that includes a private nonprofit delivery model and a public delivery model. |
|---|
| 4500 | 4516 | | |
|---|
| 4501 | 4517 | | (c) The rate paid to an intensive services foster care resource family shall be the same whether it is paid through a licensed foster family agency model or public delivery model and shall be established pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463. |
|---|
| 4502 | 4518 | | |
|---|
| 4503 | 4519 | | (d) The rate paid to the foster family agency shall be developed pursuant to subparagraph (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 11463. |
|---|
| 4504 | 4520 | | |
|---|
| 4505 | 4521 | | (e) This chapter does not waive the requirements set forth in Section 16519.5 or Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code. |
|---|
| 4506 | 4522 | | |
|---|
| 4507 | 4523 | | (f) A licensed foster family agency or county that operates a public delivery model intensive services foster care program is not prohibited from also operating as a therapeutic foster care service model program agency. |
|---|
| 4508 | 4524 | | |
|---|
| 4509 | 4525 | | (g) A county that operates as a public delivery model shall submit to the department a program description that sets forth the manner in which it will substantially comply with the requirements of this chapter and Sections 11467, 11469.2, and 11469.3. |
|---|
| 4510 | 4526 | | |
|---|
| 4511 | 4527 | | (h) The department shall adopt regulations to implement this chapter. Until regulations are adopted, the department may administer the program through the issuance of written directives that shall have the same force and effect as regulations. Any directive affecting Article 1 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 7 of Division 1 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations shall be approved by the Department of Justice. The directives shall be exempt from the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code). |
|---|
| 4512 | 4528 | | |
|---|
| 4513 | 4529 | | SEC. 28. Section 18360.15 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:18360.15. (a) Each licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall develop a childs individual needs and services plan in coordination with the childs case worker, intensive services foster care resource family, and child and family team, if available. A county operating under a public delivery model or as a licensed foster family agency model may utilize the childs case plan as the individual needs and services plan.(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 17732, no more than three foster children, two of whom may be eligible children, may be placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home. Prior to the placement of a second or third foster child in the home, who may be an eligible or noneligible child, the requirements of paragraphs (1), (2), (3), and (4) of subdivision (c) shall be met.(c) Notwithstanding subdivision (b), a county placing agency may approve placements for additional foster children that would result in the placement of more than three foster children or more than two eligible children in the home in compelling circumstances, including in order to accommodate a preexisting relationship, to place a sibling group together when at least one sibling is an eligible child or was previously an eligible child in that home, or to accommodate the extraordinary needs of a specific child that the resource family has a unique ability to meet. A shortage of foster homes shall not be a compelling circumstance absent other factors. Prior to the approval of the placement of additional foster children beyond the capacity described in subdivision (b), all of the following requirements shall be met:(1) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide each county placing agency that has children placed in that home or proposed to be placed in the home with a written assessment of the risk and compatibility of placing an additional child or children with the currently placed child or children in that home, and the ability of the resource family parent or parents to provide care and support for all of the children in the home.(2) The needs and services plan of each child placed in the home shall specify the plan to ensure timely support and services for each child placed in the home.(3) When a child and family team meeting has been conducted, the county placing agency shall consider information from the child and family teams of all children placed in the home or proposed to be placed that may impact placement.(4) The capacity of the home shall not exceed the number determined by the department or county pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4.(5) The total number of eligible children placed in the home shall not exceed three unless all eligible children are related.(6) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide to the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home with the written assessment of risk and compatibility and needs and services plans described in paragraphs (1) and (2).(7) Placement of a child in the home pursuant to this subdivision shall be subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all of the county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home.(d) If a foster child resides in an intensive services foster care resource family home pursuant to subdivision (b) or (c), and this foster child is being considered for intensive services foster care, and subsequently becomes a third eligible child, the continued placement of this child is authorized subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all the county placing agencies with children placed in the home.(e) The county placing agency shall notify the department of each child in the placement and notify counsel of each child in the placement within 10 days of approval of a placement pursuant to subdivision (c) or approval to maintain a placement pursuant to subdivision (d). As part of the notification to the department, the county shall provide the department with a copy of the written assessment of the risk and compatibility described in subdivision (c). |
|---|
| 4514 | 4530 | | |
|---|
| 4515 | 4531 | | SEC. 28. Section 18360.15 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read: |
|---|
| 4516 | 4532 | | |
|---|
| 4517 | 4533 | | ### SEC. 28. |
|---|
| 4518 | 4534 | | |
|---|
| 4519 | 4535 | | 18360.15. (a) Each licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall develop a childs individual needs and services plan in coordination with the childs case worker, intensive services foster care resource family, and child and family team, if available. A county operating under a public delivery model or as a licensed foster family agency model may utilize the childs case plan as the individual needs and services plan.(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 17732, no more than three foster children, two of whom may be eligible children, may be placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home. Prior to the placement of a second or third foster child in the home, who may be an eligible or noneligible child, the requirements of paragraphs (1), (2), (3), and (4) of subdivision (c) shall be met.(c) Notwithstanding subdivision (b), a county placing agency may approve placements for additional foster children that would result in the placement of more than three foster children or more than two eligible children in the home in compelling circumstances, including in order to accommodate a preexisting relationship, to place a sibling group together when at least one sibling is an eligible child or was previously an eligible child in that home, or to accommodate the extraordinary needs of a specific child that the resource family has a unique ability to meet. A shortage of foster homes shall not be a compelling circumstance absent other factors. Prior to the approval of the placement of additional foster children beyond the capacity described in subdivision (b), all of the following requirements shall be met:(1) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide each county placing agency that has children placed in that home or proposed to be placed in the home with a written assessment of the risk and compatibility of placing an additional child or children with the currently placed child or children in that home, and the ability of the resource family parent or parents to provide care and support for all of the children in the home.(2) The needs and services plan of each child placed in the home shall specify the plan to ensure timely support and services for each child placed in the home.(3) When a child and family team meeting has been conducted, the county placing agency shall consider information from the child and family teams of all children placed in the home or proposed to be placed that may impact placement.(4) The capacity of the home shall not exceed the number determined by the department or county pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4.(5) The total number of eligible children placed in the home shall not exceed three unless all eligible children are related.(6) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide to the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home with the written assessment of risk and compatibility and needs and services plans described in paragraphs (1) and (2).(7) Placement of a child in the home pursuant to this subdivision shall be subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all of the county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home.(d) If a foster child resides in an intensive services foster care resource family home pursuant to subdivision (b) or (c), and this foster child is being considered for intensive services foster care, and subsequently becomes a third eligible child, the continued placement of this child is authorized subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all the county placing agencies with children placed in the home.(e) The county placing agency shall notify the department of each child in the placement and notify counsel of each child in the placement within 10 days of approval of a placement pursuant to subdivision (c) or approval to maintain a placement pursuant to subdivision (d). As part of the notification to the department, the county shall provide the department with a copy of the written assessment of the risk and compatibility described in subdivision (c). |
|---|
| 4520 | 4536 | | |
|---|
| 4521 | 4537 | | 18360.15. (a) Each licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall develop a childs individual needs and services plan in coordination with the childs case worker, intensive services foster care resource family, and child and family team, if available. A county operating under a public delivery model or as a licensed foster family agency model may utilize the childs case plan as the individual needs and services plan.(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 17732, no more than three foster children, two of whom may be eligible children, may be placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home. Prior to the placement of a second or third foster child in the home, who may be an eligible or noneligible child, the requirements of paragraphs (1), (2), (3), and (4) of subdivision (c) shall be met.(c) Notwithstanding subdivision (b), a county placing agency may approve placements for additional foster children that would result in the placement of more than three foster children or more than two eligible children in the home in compelling circumstances, including in order to accommodate a preexisting relationship, to place a sibling group together when at least one sibling is an eligible child or was previously an eligible child in that home, or to accommodate the extraordinary needs of a specific child that the resource family has a unique ability to meet. A shortage of foster homes shall not be a compelling circumstance absent other factors. Prior to the approval of the placement of additional foster children beyond the capacity described in subdivision (b), all of the following requirements shall be met:(1) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide each county placing agency that has children placed in that home or proposed to be placed in the home with a written assessment of the risk and compatibility of placing an additional child or children with the currently placed child or children in that home, and the ability of the resource family parent or parents to provide care and support for all of the children in the home.(2) The needs and services plan of each child placed in the home shall specify the plan to ensure timely support and services for each child placed in the home.(3) When a child and family team meeting has been conducted, the county placing agency shall consider information from the child and family teams of all children placed in the home or proposed to be placed that may impact placement.(4) The capacity of the home shall not exceed the number determined by the department or county pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4.(5) The total number of eligible children placed in the home shall not exceed three unless all eligible children are related.(6) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide to the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home with the written assessment of risk and compatibility and needs and services plans described in paragraphs (1) and (2).(7) Placement of a child in the home pursuant to this subdivision shall be subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all of the county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home.(d) If a foster child resides in an intensive services foster care resource family home pursuant to subdivision (b) or (c), and this foster child is being considered for intensive services foster care, and subsequently becomes a third eligible child, the continued placement of this child is authorized subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all the county placing agencies with children placed in the home.(e) The county placing agency shall notify the department of each child in the placement and notify counsel of each child in the placement within 10 days of approval of a placement pursuant to subdivision (c) or approval to maintain a placement pursuant to subdivision (d). As part of the notification to the department, the county shall provide the department with a copy of the written assessment of the risk and compatibility described in subdivision (c). |
|---|
| 4522 | 4538 | | |
|---|
| 4523 | 4539 | | 18360.15. (a) Each licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall develop a childs individual needs and services plan in coordination with the childs case worker, intensive services foster care resource family, and child and family team, if available. A county operating under a public delivery model or as a licensed foster family agency model may utilize the childs case plan as the individual needs and services plan.(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 17732, no more than three foster children, two of whom may be eligible children, may be placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home. Prior to the placement of a second or third foster child in the home, who may be an eligible or noneligible child, the requirements of paragraphs (1), (2), (3), and (4) of subdivision (c) shall be met.(c) Notwithstanding subdivision (b), a county placing agency may approve placements for additional foster children that would result in the placement of more than three foster children or more than two eligible children in the home in compelling circumstances, including in order to accommodate a preexisting relationship, to place a sibling group together when at least one sibling is an eligible child or was previously an eligible child in that home, or to accommodate the extraordinary needs of a specific child that the resource family has a unique ability to meet. A shortage of foster homes shall not be a compelling circumstance absent other factors. Prior to the approval of the placement of additional foster children beyond the capacity described in subdivision (b), all of the following requirements shall be met:(1) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide each county placing agency that has children placed in that home or proposed to be placed in the home with a written assessment of the risk and compatibility of placing an additional child or children with the currently placed child or children in that home, and the ability of the resource family parent or parents to provide care and support for all of the children in the home.(2) The needs and services plan of each child placed in the home shall specify the plan to ensure timely support and services for each child placed in the home.(3) When a child and family team meeting has been conducted, the county placing agency shall consider information from the child and family teams of all children placed in the home or proposed to be placed that may impact placement.(4) The capacity of the home shall not exceed the number determined by the department or county pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4.(5) The total number of eligible children placed in the home shall not exceed three unless all eligible children are related.(6) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide to the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home with the written assessment of risk and compatibility and needs and services plans described in paragraphs (1) and (2).(7) Placement of a child in the home pursuant to this subdivision shall be subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all of the county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home.(d) If a foster child resides in an intensive services foster care resource family home pursuant to subdivision (b) or (c), and this foster child is being considered for intensive services foster care, and subsequently becomes a third eligible child, the continued placement of this child is authorized subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all the county placing agencies with children placed in the home.(e) The county placing agency shall notify the department of each child in the placement and notify counsel of each child in the placement within 10 days of approval of a placement pursuant to subdivision (c) or approval to maintain a placement pursuant to subdivision (d). As part of the notification to the department, the county shall provide the department with a copy of the written assessment of the risk and compatibility described in subdivision (c). |
|---|
| 4524 | 4540 | | |
|---|
| 4525 | 4541 | | |
|---|
| 4526 | 4542 | | |
|---|
| 4527 | 4543 | | 18360.15. (a) Each licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall develop a childs individual needs and services plan in coordination with the childs case worker, intensive services foster care resource family, and child and family team, if available. A county operating under a public delivery model or as a licensed foster family agency model may utilize the childs case plan as the individual needs and services plan. |
|---|
| 4528 | 4544 | | |
|---|
| 4529 | 4545 | | (b) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 17732, no more than three foster children, two of whom may be eligible children, may be placed in an intensive services foster care resource family home. Prior to the placement of a second or third foster child in the home, who may be an eligible or noneligible child, the requirements of paragraphs (1), (2), (3), and (4) of subdivision (c) shall be met. |
|---|
| 4530 | 4546 | | |
|---|
| 4531 | 4547 | | (c) Notwithstanding subdivision (b), a county placing agency may approve placements for additional foster children that would result in the placement of more than three foster children or more than two eligible children in the home in compelling circumstances, including in order to accommodate a preexisting relationship, to place a sibling group together when at least one sibling is an eligible child or was previously an eligible child in that home, or to accommodate the extraordinary needs of a specific child that the resource family has a unique ability to meet. A shortage of foster homes shall not be a compelling circumstance absent other factors. Prior to the approval of the placement of additional foster children beyond the capacity described in subdivision (b), all of the following requirements shall be met: |
|---|
| 4532 | 4548 | | |
|---|
| 4533 | 4549 | | (1) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide each county placing agency that has children placed in that home or proposed to be placed in the home with a written assessment of the risk and compatibility of placing an additional child or children with the currently placed child or children in that home, and the ability of the resource family parent or parents to provide care and support for all of the children in the home. |
|---|
| 4534 | 4550 | | |
|---|
| 4535 | 4551 | | (2) The needs and services plan of each child placed in the home shall specify the plan to ensure timely support and services for each child placed in the home. |
|---|
| 4536 | 4552 | | |
|---|
| 4537 | 4553 | | (3) When a child and family team meeting has been conducted, the county placing agency shall consider information from the child and family teams of all children placed in the home or proposed to be placed that may impact placement. |
|---|
| 4538 | 4554 | | |
|---|
| 4539 | 4555 | | (4) The capacity of the home shall not exceed the number determined by the department or county pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 1500) of Division 2 of the Health and Safety Code or Article 2 (commencing with Section 16519.5) of Chapter 5 of Part 4. |
|---|
| 4540 | 4556 | | |
|---|
| 4541 | 4557 | | (5) The total number of eligible children placed in the home shall not exceed three unless all eligible children are related. |
|---|
| 4542 | 4558 | | |
|---|
| 4543 | 4559 | | (6) A licensed foster family agency or county operating an intensive services foster care program shall provide to the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home with the written assessment of risk and compatibility and needs and services plans described in paragraphs (1) and (2). |
|---|
| 4544 | 4560 | | |
|---|
| 4545 | 4561 | | (7) Placement of a child in the home pursuant to this subdivision shall be subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all of the county placing agencies with children placed or proposed to be placed in the home. |
|---|
| 4546 | 4562 | | |
|---|
| 4547 | 4563 | | (d) If a foster child resides in an intensive services foster care resource family home pursuant to subdivision (b) or (c), and this foster child is being considered for intensive services foster care, and subsequently becomes a third eligible child, the continued placement of this child is authorized subject to the approval of the director of the county child welfare department or the chief probation officer of the county probation department, or their respective designees, of all the county placing agencies with children placed in the home. |
|---|
| 4548 | 4564 | | |
|---|
| 4549 | 4565 | | (e) The county placing agency shall notify the department of each child in the placement and notify counsel of each child in the placement within 10 days of approval of a placement pursuant to subdivision (c) or approval to maintain a placement pursuant to subdivision (d). As part of the notification to the department, the county shall provide the department with a copy of the written assessment of the risk and compatibility described in subdivision (c). |
|---|
| 4550 | 4566 | | |
|---|
| 4551 | 4567 | | SEC. 29. Section 18360.20 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read:18360.20. The department, in consultation with counties and other stakeholders, shall consider options to expand the number of available resource families who are willing to provide intensive services foster care, including, but not limited to, the feasibility of counties and foster family agencies contracting with each other for services. |
|---|
| 4552 | 4568 | | |
|---|
| 4553 | 4569 | | SEC. 29. Section 18360.20 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read: |
|---|
| 4554 | 4570 | | |
|---|
| 4555 | 4571 | | ### SEC. 29. |
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| 4556 | 4572 | | |
|---|
| 4557 | 4573 | | 18360.20. The department, in consultation with counties and other stakeholders, shall consider options to expand the number of available resource families who are willing to provide intensive services foster care, including, but not limited to, the feasibility of counties and foster family agencies contracting with each other for services. |
|---|
| 4558 | 4574 | | |
|---|
| 4559 | 4575 | | 18360.20. The department, in consultation with counties and other stakeholders, shall consider options to expand the number of available resource families who are willing to provide intensive services foster care, including, but not limited to, the feasibility of counties and foster family agencies contracting with each other for services. |
|---|
| 4560 | 4576 | | |
|---|
| 4561 | 4577 | | 18360.20. The department, in consultation with counties and other stakeholders, shall consider options to expand the number of available resource families who are willing to provide intensive services foster care, including, but not limited to, the feasibility of counties and foster family agencies contracting with each other for services. |
|---|
| 4562 | 4578 | | |
|---|
| 4563 | 4579 | | |
|---|
| 4564 | 4580 | | |
|---|
| 4565 | 4581 | | 18360.20. The department, in consultation with counties and other stakeholders, shall consider options to expand the number of available resource families who are willing to provide intensive services foster care, including, but not limited to, the feasibility of counties and foster family agencies contracting with each other for services. |
|---|
| 4566 | 4582 | | |
|---|
| 4567 | 4583 | | SEC. 30. (a) Section 3.5 of this bill incorporates amendments to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 686. That section shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, and (3) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686, in which case Section 3 of this bill shall not become operative.(b) (1) Section 25.1 of this bill incorporates amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 686. That section shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and (3) Assembly Bill 865 is not enacted or as enacted does not amend that section, and (4) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686, in which case Sections 25, 25.2, 25.3, 25.4, and 25.5 of this bill shall not become operative.(2) Sections 25.2 and 25.3 of this bill incorporate amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 865. These sections shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, (3) Assembly Bill 686 is not enacted or as enacted does not amend that section, and (4) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 865 in which case Sections 25, 25.1, 25.4, and 25.5 of this bill shall not become operative.(3) Sections 25.4 and 25.5 of this bill incorporate amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by this bill, Assembly Bill 686, and Assembly Bill 865. These sections shall only become operative if (1) all three bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) all three bills amend Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and (3) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686 and Assembly Bill 865, in which case Sections 25, 25.1, 25.2, and 25.3 of this bill shall not become operative. |
|---|
| 4568 | 4584 | | |
|---|
| 4569 | 4585 | | SEC. 30. (a) Section 3.5 of this bill incorporates amendments to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 686. That section shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, and (3) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686, in which case Section 3 of this bill shall not become operative.(b) (1) Section 25.1 of this bill incorporates amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 686. That section shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and (3) Assembly Bill 865 is not enacted or as enacted does not amend that section, and (4) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686, in which case Sections 25, 25.2, 25.3, 25.4, and 25.5 of this bill shall not become operative.(2) Sections 25.2 and 25.3 of this bill incorporate amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 865. These sections shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, (3) Assembly Bill 686 is not enacted or as enacted does not amend that section, and (4) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 865 in which case Sections 25, 25.1, 25.4, and 25.5 of this bill shall not become operative.(3) Sections 25.4 and 25.5 of this bill incorporate amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by this bill, Assembly Bill 686, and Assembly Bill 865. These sections shall only become operative if (1) all three bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) all three bills amend Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and (3) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686 and Assembly Bill 865, in which case Sections 25, 25.1, 25.2, and 25.3 of this bill shall not become operative. |
|---|
| 4570 | 4586 | | |
|---|
| 4571 | 4587 | | SEC. 30. (a) Section 3.5 of this bill incorporates amendments to Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 686. That section shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 1517 of the Health and Safety Code, and (3) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686, in which case Section 3 of this bill shall not become operative. |
|---|
| 4572 | 4588 | | |
|---|
| 4573 | 4589 | | ### SEC. 30. |
|---|
| 4574 | 4590 | | |
|---|
| 4575 | 4591 | | (b) (1) Section 25.1 of this bill incorporates amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 686. That section shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and (3) Assembly Bill 865 is not enacted or as enacted does not amend that section, and (4) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686, in which case Sections 25, 25.2, 25.3, 25.4, and 25.5 of this bill shall not become operative. |
|---|
| 4576 | 4592 | | |
|---|
| 4577 | 4593 | | (2) Sections 25.2 and 25.3 of this bill incorporate amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by both this bill and Assembly Bill 865. These sections shall only become operative if (1) both bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) each bill amends Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, (3) Assembly Bill 686 is not enacted or as enacted does not amend that section, and (4) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 865 in which case Sections 25, 25.1, 25.4, and 25.5 of this bill shall not become operative. |
|---|
| 4578 | 4594 | | |
|---|
| 4579 | 4595 | | (3) Sections 25.4 and 25.5 of this bill incorporate amendments to Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code proposed by this bill, Assembly Bill 686, and Assembly Bill 865. These sections shall only become operative if (1) all three bills are enacted and become effective on or before January 1, 2020, (2) all three bills amend Section 16519.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and (3) this bill is enacted after Assembly Bill 686 and Assembly Bill 865, in which case Sections 25, 25.1, 25.2, and 25.3 of this bill shall not become operative. |
|---|
| 4580 | 4596 | | |
|---|
| 4581 | 4597 | | SEC. 31. To the extent that this act has an overall effect of increasing the costs already borne by a local agency for programs or levels of service mandated by the 2011 Realignment Legislation within the meaning of Section 36 of Article XIII of the California Constitution, it shall apply to local agencies only to the extent that the state provides annual funding for the cost increase. Any new program or higher level of service provided by a local agency pursuant to this act above the level for which funding has been provided shall not require a subvention of funds by the state or otherwise be subject to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.With regard to certain other costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district, no reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because, in that regard, this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution. |
|---|
| 4582 | 4598 | | |
|---|
| 4583 | 4599 | | SEC. 31. To the extent that this act has an overall effect of increasing the costs already borne by a local agency for programs or levels of service mandated by the 2011 Realignment Legislation within the meaning of Section 36 of Article XIII of the California Constitution, it shall apply to local agencies only to the extent that the state provides annual funding for the cost increase. Any new program or higher level of service provided by a local agency pursuant to this act above the level for which funding has been provided shall not require a subvention of funds by the state or otherwise be subject to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.With regard to certain other costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district, no reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because, in that regard, this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution. |
|---|
| 4584 | 4600 | | |
|---|
| 4585 | 4601 | | SEC. 31. To the extent that this act has an overall effect of increasing the costs already borne by a local agency for programs or levels of service mandated by the 2011 Realignment Legislation within the meaning of Section 36 of Article XIII of the California Constitution, it shall apply to local agencies only to the extent that the state provides annual funding for the cost increase. Any new program or higher level of service provided by a local agency pursuant to this act above the level for which funding has been provided shall not require a subvention of funds by the state or otherwise be subject to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution. |
|---|
| 4586 | 4602 | | |
|---|
| 4587 | 4603 | | ### SEC. 31. |
|---|
| 4588 | 4604 | | |
|---|
| 4589 | 4605 | | With regard to certain other costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district, no reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because, in that regard, this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution. |
|---|
| 4590 | 4606 | | |
|---|
| 4591 | 4607 | | SEC. 32. No appropriation pursuant to Section 15200 of the Welfare and Institutions Code shall be made for purposes of this act. |
|---|
| 4592 | 4608 | | |
|---|
| 4593 | 4609 | | SEC. 32. No appropriation pursuant to Section 15200 of the Welfare and Institutions Code shall be made for purposes of this act. |
|---|
| 4594 | 4610 | | |
|---|
| 4595 | 4611 | | SEC. 32. No appropriation pursuant to Section 15200 of the Welfare and Institutions Code shall be made for purposes of this act. |
|---|
| 4596 | 4612 | | |
|---|
| 4597 | 4613 | | ### SEC. 32. |
|---|