Bill > SB183

This bill revises provisions related to caseworkers in child welfare agencies by establishing a limit of 30 children per caseworker who provides permanency services, with specific exceptions. The bill defines "permanency services" as efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of children in agency custody, including assessing medical, mental health, developmental, and educational needs, evaluating family functioning and safety, and working toward permanent placement. Caseworkers can be assigned more than 30 children in two scenarios: first, to keep siblings with the same caseworker, and second, through an agency policy that allows temporary assignment of additional children (up to 30 days) during emergency circumstances. The bill clarifies that these limits do not apply to children not in the agency's custody, such as those under investigation. The provisions will become fully effective on July 1, 2026, though agencies can begin preparing administrative tasks immediately. The goal appears to be reducing caseworker caseloads to improve the quality of care and support for children in the child welfare system.