(A) Before the department places a child with a relative who is not licensed as a foster parent, the department shall inform the relative of the procedures for licensure as a foster parent, the benefits of licensure as a foster parent, including eligibility for financial assistance and supportive services, and the risk that the relative may be ineligible for that assistance and services if the relative is not licensed as a foster parent.
(B) An order issued as a result of a hearing in which the court approves placement of a child with a relative who is not licensed as a foster parent must contain a finding by the court whether the department informed the relative of the right to become licensed as a foster parent, the procedures for obtaining licensure, and the benefits of being licensed as a foster parent, including eligibility for financial assistance and supportive services.
(C) If the court finds that the department complied with the requirements of this section and Sections 63-7-2320(C) and (E) and 63-7-2330, and the relative indicates to the court that the relative does not wish to pursue licensure as a foster parent, the court may approve the placement pursuant to this section.
HISTORY: 2018 Act No. 146 (H.3701), Section 1, eff April 4, 2018.