reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.07 - Investigation of Suspected Child Abase and Neglect - General

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. During an investigation, the local department shall:
(1) Assess the immediate safety and risk of maltreatment of the alleged victim and of the children who are household or family members of the alleged victim or in the care or custody of the alleged maltreator;
(2) Determine if the alleged child abuse or neglect or any other child abuse or neglect is indicated, unsubstantiated, or ruled out;
(3) Determine what services, if any, are appropriate and make referrals as necessary;
(4) Initiate shelter care, CINA proceeding, or voluntary placement as appropriate; and
(5) If possible, determine the identity of a maltreator.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.08 - On-Site Investigation

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Physical and Sexual Abuse. Within 24 hours of receiving a report of suspected child abuse, the local department or, by joint agreement with the appropriate law enforcement agency, a law enforcement officer, shall:
(1) Initiate an on-site investigation;
(2) Except in the case of a child fatality, see the alleged victim and determine if the health, safety, and well-being of the alleged victim requires removing the child;
(3) Attempt to see any other children who are in the care of the alleged maltreator and determine if the health, safety, and well-being of the children require that they be removed;
(4) Attempt to have an on-site interview with the alleged victim's caregiver;
(5) Document all visits or attempted visits; and
(6) If appropriate, obtain information relating to possible resources for the child.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.09 - Completing the Investigation of Alleged Child Abuse or Neglect

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A local department shall complete and document an investigation using assessment tools and forms required by the Administration.
B. A local department or, in a joint investigation, a law enforcement agency shall:
(1) To the extent possible, complete an investigation within 10 days of receiving a report; or
(2) If additional time is required, complete the investigation within 60 days of receiving a report.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.10 - Identification of Alleged Maltreator

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Except as provided in §C of this regulation, when a local department completes an investigation with a finding of indicated or unsubstantiated child abuse or neglect, the local department shall identify a maltreator.
B. If a local department completes an investigation with a finding of ruled out child abuse or neglect, the local department may not identify a maltreator.
C. A local department may not identify a maltreator in a case of indicated or unsubstantiated child abuse or neglect if the evidence is insufficient to identify:
(1) A parent, caregiver, authority figure, or household or family member of the alleged victim responsible for child physical abuse or child abuse with mental injury;
(2) A parent, caregiver, authority figure, or household or family member of the alleged victim, or sex trafficker responsible for child sexual abuse; or
(3) A parent or caregiver of the alleged victim responsible for child neglect or child neglect with mental injury.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.11 - Child Abuse Disposition

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Indicated Child Abuse.
(1) Physical Abuse with No Mental Injury. Except as provided in §A(3) of this regulation, a local department may make a finding of indicated child physical abuse if there is credible evidence, which has not been satisfactorily refuted, that the following four elements were present during the alleged child abuse:
(a) A physical injury;
(b) A child victim;
(c) A parent, caregiver, authority figure, or household or family member of the alleged victim responsible for the alleged abuse; and
(d) Circumstances including the nature, extent, and location of the injury indicating that the alleged victim's health or welfare was harmed or was at substantial risk of harm.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.12 - Child Neglect Disposition

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Indicated Child Neglect.
(1) Neglect with No Mental Injury. Except as provided in §A(2) of this regulation, the local department may make a finding of indicated child neglect when there is credible evidence, which has not been satisfactorily refuted, that the following four elements were present during the alleged neglect:
(a) A failure to provide proper care and attention;
(b) A child victim;
(c) A parent or caregiver of the alleged victim responsible for the alleged neglect; and
(d) Circumstances including the nature, extent, or cause of the alleged neglect indicating that the alleged victim's health or welfare was harmed or was at substantial risk of harm.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.13 - Closure of Investigation

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
Before a local department closes its record of investigation, the local department shall:
A. Ensure that the record is complete;
B. No later than 30 days after completing the investigation:
(1) In a case of ruled out child abuse or neglect, notify the alleged maltreator of the finding;
(2) In a case of indicated or unsubstantiated child abuse or neglect in which a maltreator has been identified, send notice of the finding and of the right to appeal under COMAR 07.02.26 to the maltreator; and
(3) In a case of indicated or unsubstantiated child abuse or neglect in which no individual has been identified as a maltreator, send notice of the finding and of the right to appeal under COMAR 07.02.26 to the alleged maltreator; and
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.14 - Alternative Response Assessment of Child Abuse or Neglect

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. During the alternative response assessment, the local department shall gather appropriate information to:
(1) Evaluate the alleged victim's home environment;
(2) Decide on the safety of the alleged victim and of other children in the household or in the care or custody of the alleged maltreator; and
(3) Determine what services, including a voluntary placement, are appropriate.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.15 - On-Site Alternative Response Assessment

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Within 24 hours of receiving a report of suspected child abuse assigned for an alternative response, the local department shall:
(1) Initiate an on-site assessment with the alleged victim's parent or primary caregiver;
(2) Initiate an on-site assessment with the alleged victim and attempt to see the other children in the care or custody of the alleged maltreator;
(3) Determine if the health, safety, or well-being of any children are at risk;
(4) Document all visits or attempted visits; and
(5) Obtain information relating to possible appropriate resources for the family.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.16 - Closure of Alternative Response Assessment

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. The local department shall complete its alternative response assessment using assessment tools and forms required by the Administration.
B. An assessment is complete when the local department:
(1) Determines the names, ages, and condition of the children in the household or in the care or custody of the alleged maltreator;
(2) Assesses the safety of the children in the household or in the care or custody of the alleged maltreator;
(3) Evaluates the risk of future child abuse or neglect; and
(4) Determines necessary services.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.17 - Provision of Services

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. If a local department determines that, as a result of its CPS response, ongoing services are appropriate, it shall immediately refer the case to local department staff providing those services or to service providers outside of the local department.
B. If the local department provides continuing child welfare services through purchase or referral, the local department shall share information regarding the CPS response with the provider as appropriate to the case and in accordance with confidentiality provisions of Regulation .21 of this chapter.
C. If the local department determines that a child is a CINA or would benefit from a voluntary placement, the local department shall file a petition with the court in accordance with Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, §§
									3-809 and  3-811, Annotated Code of Maryland.
D. Regardless of whether the local department initiates a CINA proceeding, the local department shall continue, as appropriate, to assess the child's safety and provide services.
E. If an investigation results in a finding of indicated and a child under the age of three is a member of the maltreator's or victim's household or is in the care or custody of the maltreator, the department shall make a referral to the lead public agency responsible for providing early intervention services to infants and toddlers with disabilities in the State.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.18 - The Record

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Until expunged in accordance with Regulation .19 of this chapter, the local department shall maintain:
(1) Every report of suspected child abuse or neglect; and
(2) A case record of a CPS Response.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.19 - Expungement of Child Abuse and Neglect Records

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. General Rules for Expungement.
(1) Investigations.
(a) A local department shall not expunge records related to an investigation resulting in an indicated finding.
(b) A local department shall expunge records related to an investigation resulting in an unsubstantiated finding within 5 years of receiving the report.
(c) A local department shall expunge records related to an investigation resulting in a ruled out finding within 2 years of receiving the report.
(d) A local department shall expunge records related to a screened out report of child abuse or neglect within 2 years of receiving the report.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.20 - Centralized Confidential Database

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Upon accepting a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, the local department shall enter identifying information into a centralized confidential database and, as appropriate, add to or correct information already entered.
B. The local department shall expunge identifying information from the centralized confidential database when it expunges the record related to that report.
C. The local department may only permanently identify an individual as responsible for alleged child abuse or neglect in the centralized confidential database if the individual was found responsible for indicated child abuse or neglect in a final determination.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.21 - Confidentiality-CPS Responses to Child Abuse or Neglect

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Except as otherwise provided in Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 7, and Human Services Article, §§
									1-201 -1-203, Annotated Code of Maryland, and §§B-D of this regulation:
(1) Records and reports, including the information in the records or reports, concerning child abuse or neglect and the information contained in them are confidential; and
(2) The unauthorized disclosure of records and reports concerning child abuse or neglect and the information contained in them is a criminal offense subject to the penalty set out in Human Services Article, §
										1-202(e), Annotated Code of Maryland.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.22 - Multidisciplinary Case Consultation Teams

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Purpose and Composition of Standing Multidisciplinary Case Consultation Teams.
(1) A local department shall have at least one standing multidisciplinary case consultation team that meets on a regular basis to make policy recommendations and provide case direction and services for cases including by not limited to:
(a) Complex cases;
(b) Cases with multiple referrals from mandated reporters;
(c) Cases that are likely to result in multiple indicated findings;
(d) Open cases in which there has been a fatality or near fatality; and
(e) Other cases brought to the team by team members.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.23 - Development of Procedures for Joint Investigations

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. To facilitate the investigation and prosecution of cases of alleged child abuse or neglect, the local department shall enter into a collaborative written agreement pursuant to Family Law Article, §
									5-706(f), Annotated Code of Maryland, with:
(1) Appropriate law enforcement agencies;
(2) The State's Attorney's office;
(3) The Office of Child Care's regional manager;
(4) The local health officer; and
(5) The local child advocacy center.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.07 - Child Protective Services - Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect › Section 07.02.07.24 - Hearings

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
When a local department makes a finding of indicated or unsubstantiated child abuse or neglect, the local department shall offer a right to a hearing under Family Law Article, §
									5-706.1, Annotated Code of Maryland, and COMAR 07.02.26 to an individual whom a local department has found responsible for the child abuse or neglect or, if no maltreator has been identified, to the alleged maltreator.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.08 - Substance-Exposed Newborn Safe Care Plan › Section 07.02.08.01 - Purpose and Goals

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. The purpose of the Substance-Exposed Newborns Program is to address the needs of infants born with and identified as being affected by prenatal exposure to controlled substances or by a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) by:
(1) Requiring health care practitioners who deliver or care for substance-exposed newborns to make a report to a local department of social services;
(2) Assessing the safety of, and risk to, substance-exposed newborns;
(3) Developing a plan of safe care for substance-exposed newborns if necessary; and
(4) Referring the family for appropriate services.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.08 - Substance-Exposed Newborn Safe Care Plan › Section 07.02.08.02 - Definitions

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.
B. Terms Defined.
(1) "Controlled drug" means a controlled dangerous substance included in Schedule I, Schedule II, Schedule III, Schedule IV, or Schedule V under Criminal Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 4, Annotated Code of Maryland.
(2) "FASD" means fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, which is an umbrella term for the wide range of effects from prenatal alcohol exposure, including a broad array of physical defects and cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and adaptive functioning deficits.
(3) "Health care practitioner" has the meaning stated in Health Occupations Article, §
										1-301, Annotated Code of Maryland.
(4) "Local department" means the local department of social services in the county where the mother of the substance-exposed newborn resides.
(5) "Newborn" means a child younger than 30 days old who is born or who receives care in the State.
(6) "Substance-exposed newborn" means a newborn:
(a) Who has a positive toxicology screen for a controlled drug as evidenced by an appropriate test after birth;
(b) Who displays the effects of controlled drug use or symptoms of withdrawal resulting from prenatal controlled drug exposure as determined by medical personnel;
(c) Who displays the effects of FASD; or
(d) Whose mother had a positive toxicology screen for a controlled drug at the time of delivery.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.08 - Substance-Exposed Newborn Safe Care Plan › Section 07.02.08.03 - Reports by Health Care Practitioners

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Except as provided in §C of this regulation, a health care practitioner involved in the delivery or care of a substance-exposed newborn shall:
(1) Make an oral report to the local department as soon as possible; and
(2) Make a written report to the local department not later than 48 hours after the contact, examination, attention, treatment, or testing that prompted the report.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.08 - Substance-Exposed Newborn Safe Care Plan › Section 07.02.08.04 - Receiving Reports of Substance-Exposed Newborns

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
Within 48 hours after receiving a report of a substance-exposed newborn, the local department shall:
A. See the newborn in person;
B. Consult with a health care practitioner with knowledge of the newborn's condition and the effects of any prenatal alcohol or controlled drug exposure; and
C. Attempt to interview the newborn's mother and any other individual responsible for care of the newborn.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.08 - Substance-Exposed Newborn Safe Care Plan › Section 07.02.08.05 - Assessment

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Promptly after receiving a report, the local department shall assess the safety of, and risk of harm to, the newborn to determine whether any further intervention is necessary.
B. The assessment may include but is not limited to consideration of the following:
(1) Prior child protective services involvement;
(2) The mother's prior delivery of a substance-exposed newborn;
(3) The nature and extent of mother's alcohol and controlled drug use and treatment history;
(4) The mother's level of cooperation and willingness to address concerns;
(5) The extent and availability of the newborn's family or other individuals to assist with caregiving and the provision of other support;
(6) Evidence of preparations for the newborn's birth;
(7) Availability of stable housing with no apparent safety or health hazards; and
(8) The nature and extent of drug use in the home.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.08 - Substance-Exposed Newborn Safe Care Plan › Section 07.02.08.06 - Scope

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
Reports made under this chapter do not create a presumption that a child has been or will be abused or neglected.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.01 - Purpose

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
The purpose of Youth Transitional Services is to prepare and assist youth to make the transition to successful adulthood. Services are designed to promote self-sufficiency and responsible living.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.03 - Eligibility

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. To be eligible for youth transitional services, a youth shall be age 14 to 21 years old, committed to a local department or in out-of-home placement pursuant to a voluntary placement agreement.
B. Youth 14 to 21 years old are eligible for age appropriate youth transitional services, regardless of the type of placement or permanency plan.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.04 - Program Requirements

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Youth transitional services shall be made available to all eligible youth and shall include the following components:
(1) Assessment services;
(2) Service agreement;
(3) Case plan;
(4) Transition plan;
(5) Case management services; and
(6) Semi-independent living services.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.05 - Assessment Services

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Youth who participate in youth transitional services shall have a strengths and needs assessment that identifies the youth's:
(1) Strengths and weaknesses;
(2) Independent living skills;
(3) Education level;
(4) Employability;
(5) Emotional and support systems;
(6) Documented disability or special needs;
(7) Financial resources;
(8) Housing needs; and
(9) Life goals, including such topics as:
(a) Occupation;
(b) Housing;
(c) Family life; and
(d) Health care decisions.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.06 - Benchmarks

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. The caseworker shall consult with youth beginning at the age of 14 to establish appropriate benchmarks.
B. Individual benchmarks shall be established in the following areas:
(1) Education;
(2) Employment;
(3) Health and mental health;
(4) Housing;
(5) Financial literacy and resources; and
(6) Family and friends support.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.07 - Case Plan

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Youth who participate in youth transitional services shall have a case plan as described in COMAR 07.02.11.
B. In addition to the components required by COMAR 07.02.11, the case plan shall include:
(1) The youth's strength and needs assessment;
(2) A description of the youth's current living arrangements;
(3) Educational placement;
(4) Health care status;
(5) Documentation of special needs;
(6) A personal budget;
(7) Benchmarks;
(8) A signed service agreement; and
(9) A discussion of progress made by the youth towards the goal or goals identified in the youth transitional services agreement.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.08 - Service Agreement and Transition Plan

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Youth who participate in youth transitional services shall have a service agreement as described in COMAR 07.02.11. The service agreement shall establish:
(1) Youth transitional services goals;
(2) Tasks required to meet the service goals;
(3) Individuals responsible for completion of tasks; and
(4) Time frames for completion of tasks.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.09 - Transitional Youth Services

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Youth 14 to 21 years old committed to a local department or placed in out-of-home placement pursuant to a voluntary placement agreement shall receive youth transitional services, regardless of the type of placement or permanency plan.
B. Services to youth shall be appropriate to the youth's level of education and functioning as determined by the strengths and needs assessment and any documented disability.
C. Youth transitional services for a youth in out-of-home placement include:
(1) Identification of the need for vocational, educational, or specialized training to the youth in obtaining independence;
(2) Instruction in basic living skills, such as:
(a) Decision making and time management;
(b) Educational and vocational planning;
(c) Home emergency and safety;
(d) Housing acquisition and management;
(e) Personal hygiene;
(f) Physical and mental health care;
(g) Substance abuse prevention;
(h) Preventive health activities (including smoking avoidance and pregnancy prevention);
(i) Understanding legal issues;
(j) Selecting positive leisure activities;
(k) Money management and consumer awareness;
(l) Nutrition and meal planning;
(m) Parenting;
(n) Effective social interactions;
(o) Using transportation; and
(p) Activities of daily living;
(3) Assistance in seeking and maintaining employment, including techniques for:
(a) Job searching;
(b) Interviewing;
(c) Selecting appropriate attire for the workplace; and
(d) Practicing work place etiquette including:
(i) Relationships with coworkers;
(ii) Appropriate language;
(iii) Employer/employee relationships; and
(iv) Attendance and punctuality; and
(4) Assistance in:
(a) Identifying and accessing community resources; and
(b) Developing a support network.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.10 - Caseworker Services

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. The caseworker shall provide services to youth that are committed to the local department or in out-of-home placement pursuant to a voluntary placement agreement that address the youth's physical, mental health, and emotional needs as delineated in COMAR 07.02.11.
B. The caseworker shall also provide services, which may include:
(1) Making referrals to educational or vocational training programs appropriate to a youth's skills;
(2) Supporting and monitoring a youth's compliance with the service agreement; and
(3) Maintaining monthly visits or contacts with the youth to support progress toward achievement of the youth's identified goals.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.11 - Semi-Independent Living Arrangement

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. The purpose of the semi-independent living arrangement is to provide youth an opportunity to learn and practice independent living skills and activities for a specified time period as indicated in the service agreement while receiving services from the local department and provider agency.
B. A youth 16 to 21 years old may be eligible to participate in a semi-independent living arrangement if the youth:
(1) Is continually enrolled in and regularly attending school or vocational training or is working at least 80 hours per month;
(2) Agrees to the requirements of the service agreement;
(3) Needs help in transitioning to self-sufficiency; and
(4) Is capable of contributing to the cost of the semi-independent living arrangement through:
(a) Earned income from employment; or
(b) Unearned income such as scholarships, stipends, grants, work-study arrangements, Social Security (supplemental security income or survivor's benefits), or any combination.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.12 - Independent Living Aftercare Services

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Independent living aftercare services are available on a voluntary basis to youth 18 to 21 years old who were in out-of-home placement on their 18th birthday or after attaining the age of 16 exited to kinship guardianship or adoption.
B. Independent living aftercare goals are designed to complement the efforts of former foster care recipients between 18 to 21 years old to achieve self-sufficiency by providing:
(1) Financial assistance to purchase goods and services;
(2) Temporary assistance with room, board and utilities;
(3) Counseling;
(4) Employment assistance;
(5) Education;
(6) Medical assistance; and
(7) Other appropriate services to assist with self-sufficiency.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.14 - Youth Training Requirements

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. The Administration shall conduct training consistent with the goals of the John H. Chaffee Foster Care Independence Act regarding the issues confronting adolescents preparing for independence.
B. Training shall include:
(1) Instructions in basic living skills as defined in Regulation .09C(2) of this chapter;
(2) Substance abuse;
(3) Sexuality;
(4) Gang involvement;
(5) Violence;
(6) Peer pressure;
(7) Grief and loss;
(8) Education;
(9) Employment;
(10) Health and mental health;
(11) Housing;
(12) Financial literacy and resources; and
(13) Family and friends support.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.15 - Funding

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. All purchases shall be made as outlined in COMAR 21.05.01.01E.
B. Semi-independent living arrangement payments.
(1) The local department may provide funding for youth participating in semi-independent living or enhanced aftercare.
(2) The local department may pay a semi-independent living arrangement payment for the youth's participation in youth transitional services to assist youth in obtaining:
(a) Food;
(b) Transportation;
(c) Clothing;
(d) Recreation;
(e) Education;
(f) Housing; and
(g) Other approved needs.
(3) The maximum semi-independent living arrangement payment may not exceed 100 percent of the regular foster care maintenance rate as delineated in COMAR 07.02.11.
(4) The local department shall pay the youth directly, except when the local department determines the youth:
(a) Is not in compliance with the service agreement; or
(b) Has demonstrated an inability to manage money.
(5) When a youth is not paid directly, the youth shall have a representative payee.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.16 - Termination of Transitional Services Funding

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. The local department may terminate funding as a result of:
(1) Youth's failure to comply with service agreement;
(2) Marriage; or
(3) Military duty.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.17 - Youth Advisory Boards

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Local departments shall establish a youth advisory board to ensure that foster youth are provided the opportunity to participate directly in the design and implementation of transitional services and make recommendations for improvements to the services.
B. The Administration shall establish a State advisory board consisting of representatives from the local department youth advisory boards to directly participate at the statewide level in the design and implementation of transitional services and make recommendations for statewide improvements in the services.
C. The youth advisory board shall:
(1) Empower youth to have a positive effect in their communities;
(2) Encourage youth to develop leadership skills;
(3) Provide an opportunity for youth to network with other youth;
(4) Develop a speaker's bureau to represent the board;
(5) Enhance partnerships between youth and adults;
(6) Assist in planning for and participate in the annual teen conference; and
(7) Review State and federal legislation that may affect youth transitional services.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.18 - Termination of Youth Transitional Services

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. The local department shall terminate youth transitional services if the youth is 18 to 21 years old and:
(1) The out-of-home placement case is closed; or
(2) The youth is not participating in youth transitional services.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.19 - Accountability and Reporting

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A local department administering youth transitional services shall track:
(1) The number of youth receiving transitional and aftercare services;
(2) The characteristics of the youth receiving transitional and aftercare services;
(3) The type and quantity of services being provided to youth; and
(4) The outcomes for participating youth.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.20 - Confidentiality

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
The confidentiality of information regarding youth shall be strictly safeguarded according to the confidentiality requirements in COMAR 07.01.07 and the access of records requirements in COMAR 07.01.02. The provider agencies and foster parents shall protect the confidentiality of information regarding the foster youth and their natural parents or guardians or caretakers.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.10 - Youth Transitional Services › Section 07.02.10.21 - Fair Hearings

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
The provisions of COMAR 07.01.04 apply to this chapter.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.11 - Out-of-Home Placement Program › Section 07.02.11.01 - Purpose of Out-of-Home Placement Program

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
The purpose of the Out-of-Home Placement Program of the Social Services Administration is to:
A. Provide short-term 24-hour a day care and supportive services for a child who is in the custody or guardianship of a local department of social services or who is voluntarily placed outside the family home because the child:
(1) Has been abused, abandoned, neglected, is dependent, or has a developmental disability or mental disorder;
(2) Is in serious immediate danger; or
(3) The child's parents, legal guardian, or custodian are unable or unwilling to give proper care and attention to the child and the child's needs;
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.11 - Out-of-Home Placement Program › Section 07.02.11.02 - Goals of Out-of-Home Placement

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
The goals of out-of-home placement include:
A. Increasing the percentage of children who are reunified with family, whose caretaker is awarded guardianship, or who are legally adopted;
B. Improving outcomes for children by reducing the:
(1) Entry rate of children into out-of-home placement;
(2) Median length of time children stay in out-of-home placement;
(3) Rate at which children re-enter out-of-home placement; and
(4) Number of physical placement changes within 24 months of entering out-of-home placement and the duration of the episode; and
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.11 - Out-of-Home Placement Program › Section 07.02.11.03 - Definitions

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.
B. Terms Defined.
(1) "Abandonment" means to leave a child without any provision for support and without any person who has accepted long-term responsibility to maintain care and have custody and control of the child when:
(a) The whereabouts of the parents or guardian are unknown; and
(b) The local department has made reasonable efforts to locate the parent or guardian over a period of at least 6 months and has been unsuccessful.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.11 - Out-of-Home Placement Program › Section 07.02.11.04 - Eligibility

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A local department shall initiate out-of-home placement for a child who:
(1) Is placed voluntarily in the custody or in the care of the local department, under a written agreement in accordance with Regulation .06 of this chapter;
(2) Is abused, abandoned, or neglected, has a developmental disability or a mental disorder, or is in imminent danger, or in serious immediate danger, so long as a court has:
(a) Determined that continued residence in the child's home is contrary to the child's welfare, and
(b) Committed the child to the custody or guardianship of the local department.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.11 - Out-of-Home Placement Program › Section 07.02.11.05 - Local Department Responsibility for Out-of-Home Placement

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A child is considered to enter out-of-home placement and the placement episode begins when the local department:
(1) Removes the child from the home of the parents, legal guardian, or caregiver;
(2) Acquires legal responsibility for the care and placement of the child through a:
(a) Court order, including a shelter care order, or
(b) Written voluntary placement agreement pursuant to Regulation .06 of this chapter; and
(3) Places the child in an out-of-home placement.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.11 - Out-of-Home Placement Program › Section 07.02.11.07 - Parental Rights and Responsibilities

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. When there is a conflict between the rights of the parents or legal guardian and those of the child, the child's best interest shall take precedence.
B. After a court has terminated parental rights, the parents no longer have rights as enumerated in this regulation.
C. Consistent with the best interest of the child, the parents or legal guardian of a child in out-of-home placement may:
(1) Upon request, obtain for the child an out-of-home placement consistent with their religious affiliation, if this placement is available and suitable;
(2) Meet the child's caregivers, unless doing so would pose a danger to the child or the caregivers;
(3) Contact the child's caseworker for information about the child or to discuss the child's case;
(4) Request a family team conference to discuss local department decisions regarding the child's placement;
(5) Petition the court to return custody of a child committed to the custody of the local department;
(6) Be represented by legal counsel in all court proceedings;
(7) Receive aftercare services; and
(8) Participate in decisions about major changes in the life of the child, unless those changes are of matters protected by the child's privacy rights or contrary to the child's best interest.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.11 - Out-of-Home Placement Program › Section 07.02.11.08 - Medical Care

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. The local department shall encourage the parents or legal guardian to participate to the extent of the parents' or legal guardian's capability and availability in plans for the medical care of any child committed to or in voluntary placement with the local department.
B. When the local department holds guardianship with the right to consent to adoption, the local department has the authority to give whatever consent is needed for medical care.
C. At the time a child is taken into care, the local department shall:
(1) Ask the parents or legal guardian to sign a document authorizing the local department to consent to:
(a) An initial health care screening;
(b) A comprehensive health assessment that meets the requirements of the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) Program; and
(c) All routine and immediate medical care; and
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.11 - Out-of-Home Placement Program › Section 07.02.11.09 - Shelter Care

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. In the case of serious, immediate danger to the child, the local department shall:
(1) Remove the child; and
(2) Immediately request authorization from the court or intake officer for shelter care until the next court date when a shelter care hearing is held.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.11 - Out-of-Home Placement Program › Section 07.02.11.10 - Efforts to Prevent Out-of-Home Placement

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Before accepting a time-limited or children with disabilities voluntary placement or seeking shelter care, the local department shall document in the case record reasonable efforts that have been made but have been unsuccessful in preventing or eliminating the need for removal of the child from the home, unless an emergency situation causes removal to be reasonable under the circumstances to provide for the safety of the child.
B. Placement prevention services are those services designed to alleviate the conditions which may make out-of-home placement necessary and may include, but are not limited to:
(1) In-home aide services;
(2) Day care;
(3) Crisis counseling;
(4) Family preservation;
(5) Assistance in gaining access to emergency financial assistance;
(6) Respite care;
(7) Self-help groups;
(8) Referral for medical care and medical insurance;
(9) Special education services;
(10) Mental health, drug or alcohol abuse counseling and treatment;
(11) Referral to parenting classes;
(12) Assistance in locating housing; and
(13) Domestic violence counseling.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 07 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES › Subtitle 02 - SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION › Chapter 07.02.11 - Out-of-Home Placement Program › Section 07.02.11.11 - Out-of-Home Placement

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. In order of preference, a child shall be placed with a relative caregiver, in a foster home, or in a group care setting.
B. A foster home used by the local department shall meet the standards for foster homes established under COMAR 07.02.25 and, except as outlined in Regulation .28 of this chapter, shall be located within the State.
C. A child shall be placed in the least restrictive setting appropriate to the child's needs and:
(1) In the local jurisdiction where the child's parent or legal guardian resides; or
(2) In another jurisdiction in the State if there is a compelling reason that it is in the best interests of the child because:
(a) The child has strong ties to:
(i) Family;
(ii) A placement resource; or
(iii) Other community resources in another jurisdiction in the State;
(b) Necessary specialized services are not available to the child in the local jurisdiction but are available in another jurisdiction in the State; or
(c) There are no placements available in the jurisdiction to meet the individualized placement needs of the child.