Before revision: The Adoption Assistance and Child Welfare Act of 1980 requires that, “…each child has a case plan designed to achieve placement in the least restrictive (most family like) setting available and in close proximity to the parents' home, consistent with the best interest and special needs of the child.” Although the satutue does not define the "best interest of the child", best interest is referenced in two other sections.
After revision: The Adoption Assistance and Child Welfare Act of 1980 requires that, “…each child has a case plan designed to achieve placement in the least restrictive (most family like) setting available and in close proximity to the parents' home, consistent with the best interest and special needs of the child.” Although the statute does not define the "best interest of the child", best interest is referenced in two other sections.