Bill > HB1205

This bill modifies Maryland's Family Law to improve foster care placement processes by requiring local social services departments to provide non-confidential medical, educational, and behavioral information about a child to prospective foster parents that would directly impact the child's care or potentially affect the care provided. The bill also expands foster care placement guidelines by authorizing local departments to place up to four children in an out-of-home placement, with specific provisions for keeping siblings together when possible. Additionally, the bill maintains existing provisions that allow siblings who are separated through foster care or adoption to petition a court for visitation rights, with courts making decisions based on the best interests of the children. The legislation defines key terms like "sibling" and "treatment foster care home" and includes safeguards to ensure that sibling placements do not conflict with health or safety regulations. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, providing time for local departments to prepare for the new guidelines.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1205?ys=2025RS