Each household member shall provide a health history, including any history of drug or alcohol abuse or treatment, and must disclose any current mental health or drug or alcohol abuse issues.

The applicant shall present evidence to the department that each household member under the age of eighteen meets the Department of Health's requirements for immunizations, unless an immunization is contrary to the household member's health, as documented by a licensed health care professional, or the application provides a signed written statement that the household member adheres to a religious doctrine whose teachings are opposed to the immunization. The minimum immunization requirements for a child aged four months to six years are: diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis, poliovirus, measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella. The minimum immunization requirements for a child aged seven to eighteen are: tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis, and meningococcal ACYW. All kinship foster home applicants and household members who provide care for a child with known health vulnerabilities or a compromised immune system shall receive the influenza vaccine annually and the whooping cough vaccine as recommended by public health guidelines. The department may provide a vaccination exception for an individual with documented medical contraindications where case-specific, alternative protective measures are utilized.

The department may request additional medical statements.

The department may require a psychological evaluation and the submission of medical records if, during the application process or during the period of licensure, questions arise regarding the applicant's or foster parent's emotional stability or the emotional stability of another household member.

Cross-References:

Communicable disease control, article 44:20.

Health and safety requirements, 45 C.F.R. § 98.41.

Source: 51 SDR 127, effective June 1, 2025 .

General Authority: SDCL 26-6-16 .

Law Implemented: SDCL 26-6-11 , 26-6-16 .