SB 286 - This act specifies that family preservation or reunification of the family unit is the policy of the State, except when the court determines such policy is not in the child's best interest.

This act will require the Division of Family Services (DFS) to forward all reports received as alleged child abuse cases to appropriate staff personnel for determination whether an investigation or the family assessment and services approach should be used to respond to the allegation. DFS shall develop protocols to insure the well being and safety of the child.

A child taken into custody must receive a detention hearing by the juvenile court or family court within 72 hours of the time he was placed in custody. The court may receive testimony relevant to the necessity of detaining the child out of the custody of the parents, guardians or custodians.

Prior to a voluntary dismissal of any petition filed in the juvenile court, the juvenile officer must assess the impact of such dismissal on the best interests of the child and act to minimize any negative impact.

See Truly Agreed To CCS/HS/HCS/SS#2/SCS/SB 174.
JAMES KLAHR