Bill > LD1409

This bill amends Maine state law to expand the rights of foster parents by establishing that a non-relative foster parent who has continuously cared for a child in their home for one year or more will be given the same legal considerations as an adult relative of the child. Specifically, the bill modifies an existing statute about residential placement preferences, adding a new subsection that requires the state department (likely the Department of Health and Human Services) to consider long-term foster parents equivalent to relatives when making placement decisions. This change means that foster parents who have demonstrated a sustained commitment to a child by providing care for at least one continuous year will now have enhanced rights in child placement proceedings, potentially making it easier for them to maintain their relationship with the child and have a say in the child's future care. The bill represents a recognition of the important role that dedicated foster parents play in children's lives, even when they are not biological or legal relatives of the child.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1409&snum=132