Bill > SB296

This bill establishes a framework for appointing and managing volunteer advocates in juvenile dependency and termination-of-parental-rights cases in Alabama, aiming to promote the best interests and safety of children. It defines a "state entity" as a nonprofit corporation that supports local volunteer advocate programs, and outlines the qualifications, duties, and limitations for these volunteer advocates, who will serve without compensation. Key responsibilities include maintaining professional boundaries, upholding confidentiality, reporting abuse or danger, understanding the child's needs through document review and interviews, advocating for the child's best interests, collaborating with other professionals, attending court hearings to provide testimony and reports, and monitoring service plans. Volunteer advocates must have regular in-person contact with the child, with exceptions allowed under specific policies. They are prohibited from performing duties of the Department of Human Resources or a guardian ad litem, such as investigating abuse allegations or making placement arrangements, and cannot serve in child-support or domestic relations cases. The bill also clarifies that volunteer advocates are not prevented from having children or family members involved in the juvenile court system in their homes, but all interactions with the child must occur in appropriate settings. A state entity will develop minimum standards for local programs, including ethical conduct and volunteer management, and create training curricula. Local programs must be nonprofit, agree to membership with the state entity, have an executive director or designated overseer, and ensure proper screening and training of their staff and volunteers. The bill also specifies that it complements existing court rules but will supersede them in case of conflict and will not override certain local laws regarding funding for these programs.

Justice

https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/bill-search