PURPOSE: This rule tells the ages and number of children to be kept in a foster home. It also lists the exceptions.

1. (1) The maximum number of children in a foster home shall not exceed six (6) including the foster parents’ children, counting child as any individual under age eighteen (18), with the following exceptions:

   1. (A) Foster children sibling groups; and
   2. (B) Minor mother and child family groups.
2. (2) Foster parent(s) shall not provide care for more than two (2) children under age two (2) and no more than four (4) preschool age children unless necessary to accommodate a sibling group.
3. (3) Any foster home exceeding the regulated total numbers at the time these regulations are adopted shall continue to qualify for license if all other requirements are met. Additional foster children shall not be placed in these homes until such time as they can comply to this rule.

AUTHORITY: sections 210.221 and 210.486, RSMo 1986.* Original rule filed May 10, 1978, effective Sept. 11, 1978. Amended: Filed June 28, 1983, effective Nov. 11, 1983.

*Original authority: 210.221, RSMo 1949, amended 1955 and 210.486, RSMo 1982.