1. (1) The requirements specified in Section 80-2a-301 must be met for preliminary placement of a child with a relative or friend.

2. (2) A decision to make a preliminary placement of a child with a relative or friend will include assessment of the following factors:

   1. (a) the relative or friend's history of abusive or neglectful behavior toward other children that may show or present a danger to the child;
   2. (b) the child is comfortable with the relative or friend;
   3. (c) the relative or friend recognizes the parent's history of abuse and is committed to protect the child;
   4. (d) the relative or friend is strong enough to resist inappropriate requests by the parent for access to the child, in accordance with court orders;
   5. (e) the relative or friend is committed to caring for the child as long as necessary; and
   6. (f) the relative or friend can provide a secure and stable environment for the child.
3. (3) Placement with friends are also subject to the child's preferences, comfort level and designation as specified in Section 80-3-302.
4. (4) A relative or friend must meet the background screening requirements.

5. (5) Assessment of safety will be based on safety decision-making principles, which include:

   1. (a) potential threats of harm;
   2. (b) vulnerabilities of the child; and
   3. (c) protective capacities of the potential kinship caregiver and their support system.

6. (6) The limited home inspection specified in Section 80-2a-301 is required for a non-custodial parent, relative, or friend. The limited home inspection is conducted in the home of the prospective kinship caregiver to determine if there are apparent safety risks in the home that present a potential threat of harm to the child. The limited home inspection determines if the following are met:

   1. (a) the home is free from observable health and fire hazards;
   2. (b) there are adequate sleeping arrangements to meet the specific needs of each child; and
   3. (c) any firearms, ammunition, hazardous chemicals, and medications are secured and not accessible to children.
7. (7) References may be contacted to obtain input regarding placing the child with the potential kinship caregiver or information about other available relatives or friends who may care for the child.

KEY: child welfare, kinship

Date of Last Change: August 15, 2023

Notice of Continuation: February 14, 2023

Authorizing, and Implemented or Interpreted Law: 80-1-102; 80-2-102; 80-2-301; 80-2-302; 80-2a-101; 80-2a-301; 80-3-102; 80-3-302; 80-3-303; 80-3-305