Opinion ID: 2653451
Heading Depth: 5
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: the reasons why a permanent placement with a

Text: fit and willing relative through a kinship guardianship assistance arrangement is in the child’s best interests; (continued...) 29  FOR PUBLICATION IN WEST’S HAWAI #I REPORTS AND PACIFIC REPORTER  reflects a relative placement preference. DHS overstates the impact of the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008, which amended each of the foregoing sections. Third, the regulations implementing Title IV-E do not show that Title IV-E funds are conditioned upon relative placement. It is true that 45 C.F.R. § 1355.34(b)(ii)(B) (2012) provides the following: “(b) Criteria related to outcomes. . . . (ii) In the area of permanency for children: . . . (B) The continuity of family relationships and connections is preserved for children. . . .” This language encourages continuous family relationships but does not mandate relative placement. Moreover, 45 C.F.R. § 1355.25 provides, with emphasis added: The following principles, most often identified by practitioners and others as helping to assure effective services for children, youth, and families, should guide the States . . . in developing, operating, and improving the continuum of child and family services. (a) The safety and well-being of children and of all family members is paramount. 8 (...continued)