All foster care homes must comply with the "Rules Regulating Foster Care Homes" and the "General Rules for Child Care Facilities".
7.708.1FOSTER CARE HOMES [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. "Foster care home" (refer to Section 7.000.2 in 12 CCR 2509-1), as defined at Section 26-6-102, C.R.S., means a facility that is certified by the county department or a child placement agency for child care in a place of residence of a family or person for the purpose of providing twenty-four (24) hour family care for a child under the age of eighteen years who is not related to the head of such home, except in the case of relative care. The term includes any foster care home receiving a child for regular twenty-four (24) hour care and any home receiving a child from any state operated institution for child care or from any child placement agency. The number and age of foster children for which a certificate may be issued is determined by the following factors:
1. No foster child/youth shall be placed in a foster home if that placement will result in more than six foster children/youth in that home, or a total of ten children/youth (foster and non-foster), or more than two children under two years of age, except in those instances in which the placement of a sibling group in a foster care home would exceed the limits. If the placement of a sibling group results in exceeding the above limits, no other foster children/youth can be placed in the home. a. When a foster care home is certified for more than four children/youth in foster care, each foster parent shall demonstrate sufficient skills to meet the individual physical, mental, social, behavioral, and other trauma needs of each child/youth placed in the home, including identification of:1) Parenting experience, parenting style and the ability to meet the supervision needs of each child/youth;2) Ongoing assessment of needs shall be conducted by the certifying agency during support visits in the foster care home. The certifying agency shall provide more frequent contact during the month when that is an identified need;3) Sufficient supports, including those provided by the certifying agency to meet the daily needs of each child/youth placed in the home as identified in the family services plan. Supports could include transportation, child care, respite, and coaching for the child/youth and/or foster parent(s); and,4) Training needed to provide care to the populations served, including any increased and/or specialized training identified in the training development plan.b. Space requirements in section 7.708.22 shall be maintained.c. The preferences of foster parents identified in section 7.708.61 shall be maintained.2. A foster care home may serve children enrolled in Children's Habilitation Residential Program (CHRP) if the certifying agency determines the foster home providers have the knowledge and supports to safely meet the needs of all of the children in the home. Emergency placements will not exceed maximum capacities. CERTIFIED FOSTER HOME MAXIMUM CAPACITY |
CHRP | Non-CHRP | Total Children |
1 | 3 | 4 |
2 | 2 | 4 |
3 | 1 | 4 |
3. Foster care providers who are serving foster children enrolled in the Children's Habilitation Residential Program (CHRP) waiver shall be in compliance with rules contained within the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing's Medical Assistance Manual at Section 8.508 (10 CCR 2505-10).4. Foster care may be provided to children from birth to eighteen (18) years of age and to those persons to 21 years of age who are placed by court order prior to their eighteenth birthday.5. When a foster care home only provides temporary emergency care for foster children/youth, the home may be certified for up to six foster children/youth. No more than two children under two years of age may reside in the foster care home, including the foster parent's children under two years of age and any children under two years of age being placed into foster care. An exception is allowed when the placement of a sibling group of twins or triplets (multiple births), etc., who are under two years of age, would exceed the limits. There can be no more than a total of six foster children/youth in the home except in sibling placements. The number of additional foster children under six years of age to be cared for shall be specified on the certificate and in the home study. Such a foster care home shall be designated as a receiving home. The designation shall appear on the certificate. a. No foster child/youth shall remain in that foster care home at the receiving home rate longer than 90 consecutive days, in accordance with the requirements of Section 7.417.3.b. The number of foster children/youth to be cared for at the receiving home rate and any foster children/youth to be cared for at the regular foster care home rate shall be included on the certificate.c. Each receiving home parent shall have two years of experience as a foster parent, although the certifying agency may take into account other relevant education and experience.d. Each receiving home parent shall complete 32 hours of on-going training every year as identified in his/her training development plan. This training shall include the following competencies:1) Issues regarding emergency and crisis placement of children/youth with unknown histories; and,2) Dynamics of victimization issues, with emphasis on appropriate age and developmental levels; and,3) Cultural, spiritual, and religious awareness, consideration for, sensitivity to, and tolerance of each child/youth individually.e. Because receiving homes are likely to have quick turn-over of the children/youth in care, supervision and monitoring of the receiving home shall be carried out according to the following: 1) One face-to-face contact shall be made with the receiving home parent(s) at least every week when children/youth are in placement in the home, with a minimum of two visits per month occurring in the receiving home.2) Documentation of such contact shall be in the provider file, as well as in each file of all foster children/youth in the home.3) The purpose of the contact is to address any questions the receiving home parent has about the children/youth in care, to observe child care when appropriate and to provide support to the receiving home parent.f. A receiving home shall have a comprehensive annual evaluation, which includes a review of any critical incidents, any allegations of institutional abuse, and the skills, needs, and competencies of the receiving home parent(s).6. A foster care home may not be operated without a license or a certificate as required by law and Section 7.701.4 of these rules, and the number of foster children cared for in such facility may not exceed the number authorized by such license or certificate.B. Foster care homes may be licensed host family homes. 1. A foster home may be a licensed host family home pursuant to the rules at Section 7.721.2. Pursuant to 26-5.7-105(6), C.R.S., a foster care home approved as a licensed host family home shall not accept a homeless youth for placement under this section if there are any foster children currently placed in the home. No foster children may be placed while a homeless youth resides at the foster home.3. A foster care home acting as a host family home for homeless youth shall receive additional training regarding homeless youth services and shall be designated as a host family home on the foster home certificate.4. Pursuant to Section 26-5.7-105(5), C.R.S., if the county or child placement agency referring the youth to the host family home or the host home parents determine that a referral for additional services needs to be made, they shall make a referral to the county of reference of the parents of the youth.5. Notification Pursuant to Sections 26-5.7-105(4) and (7), C.R.S:
a. When a youth under fifteen years of age is admitted to a host family home, the county or child placement agency referring the youth to the host family home or the host family home's parents shall notify the county department of residence of the parents of the youth within seventy-two (72) hours of the youth's admission.b. If a youth who is at least eleven (11) years of age but less than fifteen (15) years of age has been served up to twenty-one (21) consecutive days and returns again to the licensed host family home after leaving the home, the county or child placement agency referring the youth to the host family home or the host family home shall notify the county department of residence of the parents of the youth within seventy-two (72) hours of the youth's admission.7.708.11Definitions [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]"Certifying authority" means licensed child placement agencies and county departments of human or social services that have the authority to certify foster care homes, including kinship foster care homes.
"Child specific foster care" is care where the foster child has a prior relationship to the foster parent(s).
"County designee" is the representative of a county department designated by the county executive director to make certain key decisions regarding foster children.
"De-escalation" is the use of therapeutic interventions with a foster child during the escalation phase of a crisis. The interventions are designed to allow foster children to contain their own behavior so that acute physical behavior does not develop which would lead to the need for use of a physical restraint.
The "Family Service Plan" is a case services plan completed by a county caseworker jointly with the foster child, parents, and foster parents within 60 calendar days of placement for each foster child receiving services from a county department of social/human services.
"Kin": Refer to Section 7.000.2 (12 CCR 2509-1) for the definitions of "kin" and "non-certified kinship care".
"Reasonable", as used in these rules, means appropriate and suitable, not excessive or extreme.
"Religion", where used in these rules, includes traditional religious beliefs and spiritual beliefs such as those of Native Americans.
"Therapeutic foster care" means a program of foster care that incorporates treatment for the special physical, psychological, or emotional needs of a child placed with specially trained foster parents.
"Treatment Foster Care" means a clinically effective alternative to residential treatment facilities that combines the treatment technologies typically associated with more restrictive settings with a nurturing and individualized family environment.
"Whole Family Placement", also known as "shared family care", is a situation in which adult parent(s) and foster child(ren) are placed together in the home of a family trained to mentor and support the biological parents as they develop skills and supports necessary to care for their foster child(ren) and move toward living independently.
7.708.2REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTIFICATION OF FAMILY FOSTER CARE HOMES7.708.21Character, Suitability, and Qualifications of Family Foster ParentsA. A certificate shall be denied in accordance with Section 7.500.312, D.B. Each foster parent in the foster care home shall demonstrate an interest in, and a knowledge of, foster children and a concern for their proper care and well-being.C. A certificate may be denied or revoked if the foster parent(s)' own children have been placed in foster care or a residential treatment facility under circumstances which demonstrated that the foster parent or another resident of the home was abusive, neglectful, or a danger to the health, safety, or well-being of those foster children.D. The foster care home parents shall be able to provide for a foster child's proper physical, mental and character development.E. Applicants shall demonstrate stability in family relationships within the home where foster care is to be provided.F. The licensing or certifying authority must receive at least three written statements which describe the applicant's character, interpersonal relations, and ability to provide care for foster children from references provided by the applicant, at least two from a source/person who are not related to the applicant and who have known the applicant one year or longer (references need not be residents of Colorado). Licensing or certifying representatives may contact others who may have knowledge or information regarding the applicant's character or suitability.G. The foster home parent shall possess basic knowledge of child care and good nutrition, and shall cooperate with the licensing or certifying agency in programs designed to increase such knowledge.H. Licenses or certificates shall not be granted to applicants who are less than twenty one years of age on the date of application for such license or who lack adequate physical stamina to care for children.I. Foster parents shall protect children/youth in foster care from exposure to second hand smoke. Smoking includes the use of electronic nicotine delivery systems, also known as e-cigarettes, e-cigs, vape pens, e-hookahs, e-pipe, tanks, mods, and vapes. 1. Smoking is prohibited inside the foster care home at all times when a child/youth is in placement in the foster care home.2. Smoking is prohibited in a foster parent's, alternative care's (natural support), or substitute caregiver's motor vehicle when a child/youth is in placement in the foster care home.3. Smoking is prohibited in the presence of a child/youth who is in placement in the foster care home.J. The financial resources of foster parents shall be adequate to assure that the home where the care is provided is maintained in safe repair and in conformity with standards and that the requirements of these regulations can be fulfilled.K. A license or certificate shall not be granted for a foster care home unless the applicant has demonstrated the ability to manage a household so that the licensing or certifying authority may determine that the applicant is able to acquire food, materials and other equipment as may be required for child care and to maintain records pertaining to foster children, including records required by statute or regulations.L. Each foster parent shall have a health assessment within one year prior to certification or within 30 calendar days after certification and thereafter as required, in writing, by a licensed health care professional. The reports of the medical examinations shall be dated and signed by the examining physician or nurse practitioner and shall be provided to the certifying authority. Reports shall include a statement of the evaluation of the person's physical ability to care for foster children. If, in the opinion of the licensed health care professional or the assessment worker, an emotional or psychological condition exists which would have a negative impact on the care of foster children, the issuance of a license shall be conditioned upon the satisfactory report of a licensed mental health practitioner.
M. Children of the foster home parents and any other persons not placed by the agency and living in the foster care home shall obtain a medical statement from a licensed health care professional verifying that each such person suffers from no illness or communicable disease which would adversely affect foster children in care. This statement shall be obtained annually or as required in writing by an approved health care professional. A licensed health care professional is defined as a physician, nurse practitioner, or a physician's assistant. This statement shall have been signed within the twelve month period preceding the original license or full certificate granted to the home.N. Applicants will not use illegal substances under state law, will use legal prescription medications as prescribed by a licensed health care professional, and will use over the counter medications as recommended by the manufacturer or the licensed health care professional.O. The use of legal substances must not inhibit the foster parent's ability to provide care that is consistent with the needs of the child/youth.P. A foster parent must be able to communicate sufficiently to provide care for the child/youth, including the ability to communicate with the guardian ad litem (gal) and/ or counsel for youth and case worker. If needed, a foster parent may use an interpreter to assist. A child may not be used to interpret. This must be documented in the home study and updated annually. Q. A foster parent must be able to read and comprehend the instructions for the child's/youth's medical and mental health requirements, including but not limited to, prescription medications and the licensed health care practitioner's instructions. A foster parent may use an interpreter to assist. A child may not be used to interpret. This must be documented in the home study and updated annually.7.708.21.1Health History Assessment:A. All household members must disclose to the certifying agency their current mental health and/or substance use and/or abuse issues.B. All household members must provide information about their physical and mental health history, including any history of drug and/or alcohol abuse or treatment.7.708.22Physical Requirements for a Safe and Adequate Foster Care Home [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. Licensing or certifying representatives are authorized but not required to consult the state or county department of health regarding sanitary standards and to consult local fire departments regarding questions of fire safety. A license or certificate may be denied or revoked in the event an applicant or licensee refuses to permit an investigation by these authorities if requested by a licensing or certifying representative, or if such authority advises, that a license or certificate not be issued.B. The following shall be required of all foster care homes:1. There shall be an outdoor play space free from hazards of not less than 75 square feet per child in care who is between 12 months and five years of age. This area shall be fenced or otherwise protected. If the area is not fenced, outdoor play shall be supervised by the foster care provider or designee and a specific plan for how safety is to be assured shall be documented in the case file.2. The presence of firearms and ammunition is strongly discouraged in any home in which foster children are 'cared for. Any weapons such as firearms, air rifles, bows, hunting knives or hunting sling shots shall be unstrung and unloaded at all times when foster children are in the home and shall be stored in locked containers out of the reach of foster children. Ammunition and arrows shall be stored in separate locked containers. Firearms which are solely ornamental are excepted from the storage requirement. Weapons shall not be transported in any vehicle in which foster children are riding unless the weapons are made inoperable and inaccessible. Law enforcement professionals are exempted from the requirements of this section if conditions of their employment require them to carry weapons.3. At least 35 square feet of usable indoor space exclusive of halls, baths and sleeping area shall be available for each child. However, when a sibling group is placed together in a single foster home, a variance from the minimum space standards is permitted.' All floor space shall have carpets, tile or smooth finish which may be easily cleaned, interior walls shall be constructed of solid material and be free from holes. Unfinished basements must be inaccessible to foster children when safety hazards are present.4. Exterior doors shall be maintained in such a manner which would permit easy exit. Interior doors shall be designed to prevent children from being trapped.5. A basement which will be used regularly in the care of children in any manner shall be equipped with more than one exit; such exit may be an accessible window. See Section 7.708.31.E , for additional requirements for nighttime care.6. The foster care home shall have a kitchen with a sink that has an operating faucet, refrigerator, stove, and oven, or a way to heat and/or reheat food. Provisions shall be made for the washing, rinsing, and storing of dishes in a safe and sanitary manner.7. The foster care home shall have at least one (1) operating toilet, sink, and either a bathtub, and/or shower. Provisions shall be made for the privacy of the toilet, bathtub, and/or shower.8. Toys and outdoor play equipment meeting the requirements of Section 7.708.31. D.2.a shall be available.9. A comfortable bed or crib in a clean, well-ventilated room, which is not customarily used for other purposes such as a kitchen, dining room, hall, or bathroom, shall be available for all children/youth who are in foster care in the home. There shall be a minimum of forty (40) square feet of floor space for a bed for each child/youth in foster care, and the bed should be placed at least two (2) feet apart when arranged in parallel.10. No foster care home shall be used for a rental income business an adult foster care facility. A business of a nature which might hazardous to the health, safety, morals or welfare of foster children shall not be operated on the premises of the foster home. In order to support youth with an independent living stipend, a foster care home may provide a home for a youth that previously resided in foster care in the home on or before the youth's eighteenth (18th) birthday. The youth shall solely occupy a bedroom and shall not occupy a bedroom with a child or youth in foster care. The foster care home may accept a negotiated portion of the independent living stipend. Negotiation shall include the youth, caseworker, and foster parent(s).11. Mobile homes used as foster care homes shall have at least two (2) exits, be skirted, and properly installed and stabilized.12. If there is a trampoline on the foster care home property, safety issues regarding its use must be agreed upon with the foster parents and addressed in writing in the case file.13. Safety issues related to swimming pools shall be assessed by the certification worker, any state or local requirements addressed by the county or state health department as necessary, and documented in the case file. Use and/or access to swimming pools, including in-ground, on-ground, and above-ground models, hot tubs and spas must be safe, appropriate, hazard-free, and consistent with the age, development, and abilities of the children/youth in the foster care home. The following are required:
a. In-ground, on-ground, and above-ground swimming pools must meet state or local safety requirements and demonstrate compliance with recommendations from the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Swimming pools must meet the following requirements to ensure they are safe and hazard free. 1) Swimming pools must have a barrier on all sides.2) Swimming pools must have their methods of access through the barrier equipped with a safety device, such as a bolt lock.3) Swimming pools must be equipped with a life saving device, such as a ring buoy, float, and/or a retrieval/extension pool pole that is available and easily accessible.4) Swimming pools that cannot be emptied after each use must have a working pump and filtering system.b. Hot tubs/spas Hot tubs/spas must meet state and local safety requirements.
1) Hot tubs/spas must have safety covers and must remain locked when not in use.2) Hot tubs/spas must have a working pump and filtering system if the hot tub/spa cannot be emptied after each use.3) When children/youth are using the hot tub/spa, the water temperature must not exceed 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The length of time that children/youth may be in a 104 degree water temperature in the hot tub/spa must not exceed the recommendations of the manufacturer or a licensed health care professional.4) Only children/youth who can stand on the bottom with their head completely out of the water are allowed in the hot tub/spa without being held or supervised by an adult in the hot tub/spa. If the child/youth is unable to stand with their head completely out of the water, the child/youth must be held by an adult at all times that the child/youth is in the water.5) An adult must provide direct supervision at all times when children/youth are in the hot tub/spa.C. Temporary wading pools that have a water depth of less than two (2) feet are exempt from pool and hot tub/spa requirements. Children/youth shall be supervised at all times.D. A certificate shall be denied, suspended, revoked or made probationary for failure to repair or otherwise comply with any of the preceding requirements when a defect or noncompliance with such requirement has been noted by the licensing or certifying representative and brought to the attention of the licensee or applicant in writing.7.708.23Foster Home Site [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. The foster care home must be located in an area that is accessible to health resources, public and private utilities, adequate and safe water supplies, sewage disposal, and fire and police protection.B. The foster care home must comply with local zoning department requirements.C. The entire premises of the foster care home are subject to inspection for licensing or certification purposes, including, but not limited to, me residence where care is to be provided, the grounds surrounding the foster care home, the basement, the attic (if accessible), any storage buildings, and a garage or carport, if applicable.D. The foster care home, including indoor and outdoor space, shall be maintained in a clean and safe condition free from hazards to health and safety.7.708.24Foster Home Maintenance [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. The foster care home shall be kept in good repair and maintained in a safe, clean, and sanitary condition.B. All areas of the foster care home available to foster children's activities including equipment, materials and furnishings shall be of sturdy, safe construction, easy to clean, and free of hazards, such as sharp points or comers, splinters, protruding nails, broken play and recreational equipment, or paint that contains lead or other poisonous materials and might be dangerous to the life or health of foster children.C. All areas of the foster care home shall be kept free from accumulation of significant amounts of non-essential materials such as furnishings, newspapers, or magazines that could pose a fire or health hazard.D. Provision shall be made for collection, storage, and disposal of trash to prevent infestation by rodents.7.708.25Fire SafetyA. Fire hazards, such as defective electrical appliances and electric cords, dangerous or defective heating equipment or flammable material stored in such a manner as to create a risk of fire shall be corrected or eliminated.B. The foster care home shall contain at least one U.L-approved fire extinguisher, highly visible, easily accessible, and in working condition, weighing not less than five pounds, that has a rating of 2A, 10BC. This requirement may be waived if more extensive fire-control measures are required by a local fire department.C. A smoke detector and a carbon monoxide detector or a combination smoke/carbon monoxide detector, in working condition, must be installed on each level of the foster care home and near sleeping areas.D. No gas space heaters, open-flame gas or oil stoves, hot plates, or un-vented heaters shall be used in the foster care home for heating purposes. No electric space heaters shall be used in the foster care home for permanent heating purposes.E. Flammables aerosol paints, insecticides, chemicals, and other dangerous materials shall be locked or stored so they are inaccessible to foster children and must be stored in areas separate from sleeping or living areas. Flammables shall be stored in an approved container.F. Heating devices such as radiators, registers, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, and steam and hot water pipes that pose a fire or bum hazard to foster children shall be screened or otherwise protected.G. Flammable material must not be stored near a furnace, hot water heater, or other heating device.H. There shall be no candles or other burnable objects permitted in foster children's sleeping areas. Foster children shall not be permitted to smoke inside the foster care home or in any vehicle used to transport children.I. Exit doors shall be clearly identified to all foster children. No lock or fastening to prevent free escape from the inside of any room used by the foster children shall be permitted.J. Exit routes shall be kept free of discarded furniture, furnishings, laundry, and stacks of newspapers or magazines that could interfere with the prompt evacuation of the foster care home.K. A written emergency evacuation plan must be posted in a prominent place in the foster care home.7.708.26General Comfort and SafetyA. All hazardous chemicals, tools, and other equipment, including matches, plastic bags, paints, gasoline, medicines, insecticides, and cleaning and laundry materials, shall be stored out of reach of young foster children. Products which could cause poisoning or contamination shall not be stored in areas where food is stored or prepared.B. Water from any source other than a regular municipal water supply shall be tested annually for compliance with water quality requirements.C. The foster care home shall be equipped with adequate light, heat, ventilation, and plumbing for safe and comfortable occupancy.D. The foster care home must be equipped with hot and cold running water.E. All stairways containing more than four steps shall be equipped with a handrail.F. The foster care home shall have immediate access to a working telephone, and emergency numbers shall either be posted in a prominent location, including those related to medical care, fire, law enforcement, and poison control, where available. Numbers for the agency or person having legal custody of each child/youth in foster care shall also be readily available.7.708.3REQUIREMENT FOR THE ONGOING OPERATION OF FOSTER CARE HOMES7.708.31Care of Children/Youth Who Are in Foster CareA. Foster parents shall provide supervision and care appropriate to each child's/youth's age, level of development, and ability to accept independence and responsibility.B. Within twenty-four (24) hours of arrival at the foster care home, a child/youth in foster care shall be given an orientation to the home consistent with the age of the child/youth and ability to participate, which includes at least the following: 1. Tour of the home and instruction on fire alarm and emergency evacuation plan or procedures, escape routes and exits.2. The rules/regulations of the home.3. Procedures affecting the foster child's behavior, including limiting or restricting a foster child's rights where allowed, the type of discipline used in the foster care home, and consequences for certain behaviors.4. The complete foster children's rights and foster children's grievance procedures as developed by the foster care home or by the certifying authority.C. Health Care 1. Concerning behaviors which are observed by foster parents shall be reported to the certifying authority and the child's/youth's caseworker so that appropriate care may be obtained.2. Where pets or other animals are present, additional precautions shall be taken as required to insure both safety and good hygiene. Dogs and cats shall be vaccinated as required by State law or as designated by a veterinarian. If the governor or local government declares a disaster or emergency, and because of the declared disaster or emergency the pet vaccinations cannot be completed as required by law or veterinarian, the vaccinations must be completed as soon as possible, but no later than 45 calendar days after the declared conclusion of the disaster or emergency. Children/youth in foster care shall not be permitted to mistreat animals. Any animal that poses a threat to a child's/youth's safety or health must be confined in a place away from the child(ren)/youth in foster care.D. Home Environment and Family Activity1. It is the purpose of foster care to provide constructive family living experiences for children/youth during the period of placement. 2 Daily activities shall be designed to encourage normal physical, mental, social and emotional development of children/youth in foster care. This requirement shall be met in the following manner: a. Materials and equipment appropriate for the age of children in care shall be available for both active and quiet play.b. An effort shall be made to provide for contact and friendship between children in foster care and other children of a comparable age. Opportunities shall be provided for both group and individual play.c. Children shall be encouraged to relate or to communicate with each other and with adults.d. Outdoor activity shall be available to each child in foster care each day, weather permitting.3. Foster parents or a designated representative from the certifying authority with knowledge of the child/youth shall attend Administrative Reviews for the children/youth in their care and participate in the planning for such children/youth. They shall receive a copy of the child's/youth's Family Services Plan for each child/youth in their care.E. Nighttime Care Requirements 1. Children/youth in foster care shall be provided with a bed, cot, or crib as required by Section 7.708.22.B.8.2. Two (2) sheets and suitable warm covering shall be provided to each child/youth. Sheets shall be changed weekly or more frequently if needed, and no child shall be allowed to remain sleeping in a wet bed.3. Except for emergency placements, children in foster care over the age of eighteen (18) months shall not sleep in the same room as unrelated adults on a regular basis. Sleeping rooms for unrelated children/youth in foster care shall not be shared by children/youth in foster care of the opposite sex when one child/youth in foster care is over four (4) years old. Siblings of the opposite sex that are over the age of four (4) years and share bedrooms shall do so only with the written approval of the certifying authority and the county designee. The written documentation must be maintained in the child's/youth's and provider's file. Adolescent parents and their children may share a room.4. Each child/youth in foster care shall be provided with adequate sleep wear and a complete set of clean sleep wear shall be available in the event that a change is necessary.5. Sleeping rooms for children in foster care who are under five (5) years of age shall be near the bedroom of the foster parents or other responsible person. Monitoring systems may be utilized to ensure safety. Children in foster care who are under twelve (12) years of age shall not be permitted to sleep in a detached structure unless a responsible person sleeps in the same structure. Youth in foster care who sleep in a detached structure must have written approval of the county department that placed the youth, following an assessment of the youth's abilities and needs.F. Infant Care1. No more than two (2) children, whether birth, adoptive, or children in foster care under the age of two (2) years, shall be cared for in a foster care home, except under unusual circumstances such as multiple births.2. In addition to the applicable provisions of paragraphs A through E, above, infant care shall include the following: a. Infants shall be held during bottle feeding and at other times during the day. Infants shall not be confined but shall be allowed freedom of movement insofar as practical and shall be provided with an environment designed to stimulate their senses.b. Diapers shall be changed as required and used diapers cleaned or disposed of consistent with the practices of good hygiene. Toilet training shall not be attempted with any child in foster care less than eighteen (18) months of age and shall be done in a non-disciplinary manner.3. Safe Sleep and Co-sleep a. Infants are children who are up to one (1) year of age. They must be placed to sleep in a crib, as identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. A bassinet, as identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, may be used in lieu of a crib, only until the infant reaches the maximum weight or age as identified by the bassinet manufacturer. 1) Drop side cribs and stacking cribs are prohibited.b. Infants must not be placed to sleep on soft surfaces including, but not limited to, a bed, chair, futon, bean bag chair, couch, sofa, waterbed, pillow, quilt, sheepskin, or blanket.c. Infants must not be placed to sleep in the same crib as another infant or child.d. Infants must not sleep on the same sleep surfaces as the foster parent(s). Sleep surfaces include, but is not limited to, a floor, mattress, bed, sofa, recliner, or chair.e. A foster parent must not sleep while holding an infant. This includes, but is not limited to, while sitting on a recliner or couch.f. Soft bedding or materials that could pose a suffocation hazard are not permitted in cribs. Soft bedding means, but is not limited to, any soft sleep surface such as bumper pads or breathable mesh liners, pillows, blankets, quilts, comforters, sleep positioning devices, sheepskins, flat sheets, cloth diapers, bibs, plush toys, and stuffed animals.g. Infants who fall asleep in places other than a crib, including but not limited to, a car safety seat, bouncy seat, infant seat, activity infant swing (based on the manufacturer's recommendations), jumping chair, highchair, or any other piece of equipment not approved for sleep, must be moved to a crib as soon as reasonably possible. The child may not be left to sleep in the device overnight and must be supervised at all times.h. Infants must be placed on their back for sleeping unless there is a different recommendation from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the latter shall be followed. 1) Alternate sleep positions, and any alternate sleep surface must be used only with the written approval signed by the child's physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner.i. Before swaddling is used, the certifying agency must document in the foster parent's file that the foster parent completed the state's web-based safe sleep training. The certifying agency may require additional training as appropriate. Swaddling must be discontinued as soon as the infant tries to roll unswaddled, except where a health care professional provides written direction allowing swaddling to continue. A health care professional is a licensed physician, physician assistant, or a nurse practitioner.j. All sleep equipment must be safe, sturdy, and free from hazards including, but not limited to, broken or loose slats, a torn mattress, chipping paint, or loose screws.k. Approved sleeping equipment and mattresses must be firm and must fit snugly ensuring no more than two (2) adult fingers are able to be inserted between the mattress and the side of the approved sleeping equipment.7.708.31.1SUBSTITUTE CARE, RESPITE CARE, AND ALTERNATIVE CAREA. Substitute care is provided in the foster care home where the child/youth in foster care resides. Respite care is provided in another foster home. Alternative care is provided in the home of a natural support identified by the foster parent. These caregiving services provide opportunities for foster parents to have or take breaks of varying lengths. The following apply: 1. At least 72 business hours' notice must be provided to the caseworker, gal and/or counsel for youth and child/youth. if an emergency or an urgent situation arises, the foster parent or the certifying agency shall provide notice to the caseworker, gal and/or counsel for youth, and child/youth as soon possible.2. Caregivers may not consent to activities requiring a consent form or safety gear for high risk activities as defined by the custodial county. Current procedures must be followed by the foster parent to obtain these permissions prior to the activity occurring.3. Caregivers must ensure that all requirements related to family time, sibling time, treatment for the child/youth placed in foster care, school for the child/youth placed in foster care, and contact between child/youth and county department caseworker and GAL, are met unless other arrangements are agreed upon and consistent with court orders.B. Substitute care in the foster care home occurs when a foster parent is unable to provide supervision and care. The foster parent shall arrange for a qualified substitute who is familiar with these rules and with the children/youth in foster care in order to provide temporary supervision and care to the children/youth in the identified foster care home. 1. If care is to be provided for up to eight (8) hours in the foster care home, the substitute care provider must be at least sixteen (16) years of age. Exceptions based on age and maturity of the potential substitute care provider and the individual needs of the child/youth placed in foster care can be made with concurrence of the foster parent and the certifying authority, but in no case should the provider of substitute care be less than fourteen (14) years of age. The age exception must be documented in the foster parent's file.2. If care is provided for more than eight (8) hours in the foster care home or for overnight care in the foster care home, the substitute care provider must be at least eighteen (18) years of age, currently certified in First Aid and CPR, and the following completed checks of the substitute care provider must be placed in the foster parent's file: a. Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI);b. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI);c. Comprehensive Child Welfare Information System (CCWIS); and,d. CBI sex offender name and address check and National Sex Offender Public Website name and address check.3. A copy of the substitute care provider's driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance must be given to the certifying agency before the substitute care provider can drive the child/youth in foster care.4. Potential caregivers with background checks consistent with Section 7.701.33.d.7 cannot be used.C. Respite Care Respite care is provided in a foster care home, other than the current foster care home where the child/youth in foster care resides. Respite care is used to allow the foster parent a temporary break from providing care. Respite care is also used when children/youth in foster care need a temporary break from their current foster care home.
1. a non-emergency respite care occasion may not exceed 30 calendar days, with a maximum of 60 days per calendar year. exceptions in excess of 60 days per year may be allowed and must be approved by the certifying agency, caseworker, child/youth and guardian ad litem and/or counsel for youth.2. Non-emergency respite care may not exceed the identified capacity of the respite foster care home. a. A sibling group may be considered a single placement; and,b. Space requirements in Section 7.708.22.b.8 apply.3. Emergency respite care that causes the foster care home to exceed the identified capacity shall not occur for more than seven (7) consecutive days per month and not exceed 28 days in a calendar year. The respite foster care home may not exceed more than two (2) children/youth in foster care above their identified capacity and age range.4. The respite foster care home must be in compliance with all other applicable rules regulating foster care homes.D. Alternative Care is Provided Outside of the Foster Care Home An alternative care provider is an individual with whom the foster parent has a personal association or relationship that is typically developed in the community. This is known as a natural support and it enhances the quality and security of life, including but not limited to, family relationships, friendships, and relationships developed through participation in clubs, organizations, and other civic activities.
1. Alternative care (natural support) may be provided outside of the foster care home for up to 72 consecutive hours with a maximum of seven (7) days a month, unless approved by the certifying agency, caseworker, child/youth. and gal and/or counsel for youth. a. An alternative care (natural support) provider must be familiar with the child/youth placed in foster care; and,b. Be at least eighteen (18) years of age.2. Before alternative care (natural support) is used overnight, the foster parent shall introduce the alternative care provider and the child/youth placed in foster care and arrange for the child/youth to visit the alternative care provider's home.3. An alternative care (natural support) consent form (state prescribed) must be completed between the foster parent and the alternative care provider prior to the care being provided to the child/youth.4. The certifying agency must review the consent form and complete background checks for all adults residing in the home in Colorado Courts (state judicial database), CBI sex offender name and address check, and National Sex Offender Public Website name and address check. A CBI and FBI fingerprint-based criminal history record information check is required only if the adult has resided in Colorado less than five (5) years. a. When the county department is the certifying agency, staff will complete a child abuse/neglect background check in the CCWIS for the alternative care (natural support).b. When the foster parent is certified by a child placement agency, the alternative care (natural support) must submit a request for a CCWIS check from the Background Investigation Unit.5. A copy of the alternative care (natural support) provider's driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance must be given to the certifying agency before the alternative care provider can drive the child/youth.6. Potential alternative care (natural support) with background checks consistent with Section 7.701.33.d.7 cannot be used.7.708.32Suspected Child AbuseWhere child abuse is suspected, the foster parent shall be alert for evidence of signs of abuse and report such evidence promptly to the county department of social/human services. A written report of any external signs of injury, such as bruising, scratching or swelling, shall be placed in the foster child's record. If there is any suspicion of abuse or illness, the foster child shall be seen by medical personnel immediately.
7.708.33Foster Children's RightsA. The certifying authority shall have written policies and procedures that address and ensure the availability of each of the following core rights for foster children in residence. These rights may not be restricted or denied by the foster care home or certifying authority. Every foster child has the right to: 1. Enjoy freedom of thought, conscience, cultural and ethnic practice, and religion.\2. A reasonable degree of privacy.3. Have his or her opinions heard and considered, to the greatest extent possible, when any decisions are being made affecting his/her life.4. Receive appropriate and reasonable adult guidance, support and supervision.5. Be free from physical abuse or neglect and inhumane treatment. Every foster child has the right to be protected from all forms of sexual exploitation.6. Receive adequate and appropriate medical care.7. Receive adequate and appropriate food, clothing, and housing.8. Live in clean, safe surroundings.9. Participate in an educational program that will maximize his/her potential in accordance with existing law.10. Communicate with "significant others" outside the foster care home, such as a parent or guardian, caseworker, attorney or guardian ad litem and/ or counsel for youth, current therapist, physician, religious advisor, and, if appropriate, probation officer.B. The following foster children's rights may be limited; to reasonable periods during the day or restricted according to routine of the foster care home to ensure the protection of the foster children and foster family. Every foster child has the right to: 1. Have access to letter-writing materials, including postage, and to have a foster parent(s) assist him/her if unable to write, prepare, and mail correspondence.2. Have access to telephones to both make and receive calls in private.3. Have convenient opportunities to meet with visitors.4. Wear his/her own clothes, keep and use his/her own personal possessions, and keep and be allowed to spend a reasonable sum of his/her own money.5. Receive and send sealed correspondence.C. Foster care homes must develop a plan, in conjunction with the certifying authority, regarding the following rights of foster children and these rights must be explained to the foster children upon admission. The notification must be communicated in a language or mode of communication the foster child can understand. There must be plans for: 1. How and when telephone, including cell phone use, and written communications, including, but not limited to, social networking and other electronic communication, will take place.2. Extenuating circumstances and emergency situations affecting the foster child and his/her family.7.708.34The Prohibited Use of Cruel and Aversive Therapy [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]The foster care home shall refrain from engaging in all cruel and aversive behavior management, treatment or therapy including, but not limited to, the following:
A. Any intervention designed to or likely to cause a foster child physical painB. Releasing noxious, or toxic, sprays, mists, or substances in proximity to the foster child's face.C. Any intervention that denies a foster child sleep, food, water, shelter, access to bathroom facilities, adequate bedding, or appropriate physical comfort.D. Any intervention or type of treatment that subjects a foster child to verbal abuse, ridicule, humiliation or that can be expected to cause excessive emotional trauma.E. Interventions that use a device, material, or object that is designed to simultaneously immobilize all four of the foster child's extremities.F. Any treatment intervention that deprives a foster child of the use of his/her senses, including sight, hearing, touch, taste, or smell.G. Physical management, restraint and seclusion except as described at Sections 7.708.36 and 7.714.53.H. Use of rebirthing therapy or any therapy technique that may be considered similar to rebirthing therapy as a therapeutic treatment, as defined by Section 12-43-222(1)(t)(IV), C.R.S.7.708.35Discipline [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. The foster care home or certifying authority shall have written policies and procedures regarding discipline that must be explained to all foster children, parent(s), guardian(s), staff, and placing agencies. These policies must include positive responses to a foster child's appropriate behavior.B. Discipline shall be constructive or educational in nature and may include talking with the foster child about the situation, praise for appropriate behavior, diversion, separation from the problem situation, and withholding privileges.C. Basic rights shall not be denied as a disciplinary measure.D. Separation when used as discipline must be brief and appropriate to the foster child's age and circumstances. The foster child shall always be within hearing of an adult in a safe, clean, well-lighted, well-ventilated room in the foster care home that contains at least fifty (50) square feet of floor space. No foster child shall be isolated in a bathroom, closet or pantry.E. Foster children in care at the foster care home shall not discipline other foster children.F. A foster care home shall prohibit all cruel and unusual discipline including, but not limited to, the following: 1. Any type of physical hitting or any type of physical punishment inflicted in any manner upon the body of the foster child, such as spanking, striking, swatting, punching, shaking, biting, hair pulling, roughly handling a foster child, striking with an inanimate object, or any humiliating or frightening method of discipline to control the actions of any foster child or group of foster children.2. Discipline that is designed to, or likely to, cause physical pain.3. Physical exercises such as running laps, push-ups, or carrying heavy rocks, bricks, or lumber when used solely as a means of punishment.4. Assignment of physically strenuous or harsh work that could result in harm to the foster child.5. Requiring or forcing a foster child to take an uncomfortable position such as squatting or bending, or requiring a foster child to stay in a positron for an extended length of time such as standing with nose to the wall, holding hands over head, or sitting in a cross-legged position on the floor, or requiring or forcing a foster child to repeat physical movements when used solely as a means of punishment.6. Verbal abuse or derogatory remarks about the foster child his/her family, his/her race, religion, or cultural background.7. Denial of any essential/basic program service solely for disciplinary purposes.8. Deprivation of meals or snacks, although scheduled meals or snacks may be provided individually.9. Denial of visiting or communication privileges with family, clergy, attorney, or caseworker solely as a means of punishment.10. Releasing noxious, toxic, or otherwise unpleasant sprays, mists, or aerosol substances in proximity to the foster child's face.12. Requiring the foster child to remain silent for a period of time inconsistent with the foster child's age, developmental level, or medical condition.13. Denial of shelter, clothing or bedding.14. Withholding of emotional response or stimulation.15. Discipline associated with toileting, toileting accidents or lapses in toilet training.16. Sending a foster child to bed as punishment. This does not prohibit a family foster care home from setting individual bed times- for foster children.17. Force feeding a foster child.18. Physical management, restraint and seclusion.7.708.36Physical Management and Seclusion [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. Seclusion is prohibited.B. Physical management to attain and maintain control or for behavior management, treatment, or therapy is prohibited and/or seclusion is prohibited, unless the foster care home is pre-approved by the certifying authority to perform physical management and/or seclusion and the foster care home is in compliance with Section 7.708.61 , K, 2, Section 7.714.53 , et seq., and the applicable definitions found in Section 7.714.1 . The foster care home must notify the placing caseworker when a child is subject to physical management and/or seclusion.7.708.37Religion [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. The foster care home shall demonstrate consideration for, and sensitivity to, the religious backgrounds of foster children in care. The foster care home shall assist a foster child's involvement in religious activities appropriate to the foster child's religious background and based upon the needs and interests of the foster child.B. Foster children in care at the foster care home shall be allowed and encouraged to celebrate their religious holidays.C. Opportunity and assistance shall be provided for each foster child to practice the chosen/preferred religious beliefs and faith of his/her family. If the family has no preference, the individual preference of the foster child shall be respected. This includes, but is not limited to, making necessary arrangements for attendance of foster children at the appropriate religious institution or at a study group for religious instruction.D. A foster child may be invited to participate in religious activities of the foster care home.E. A foster child shall not be coerced or forced to participate in the religious activities of the foster care home or to attend religious services.F. Any form of religious intervention used by the foster care home to control or change a foster child's behavior, or treat or heal a medical condition, must be approved, in writing, by the legal guardian(s) of the foster child prior to the use of the intervention.G. A foster care home cannot deny medical care to a foster child because of religious beliefs.H. The foster child's family and/or guardian must be consulted prior to any planned change in religious affiliation made by the foster child while he/she is in care at the foster care home.7.708.38Education [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. Foster children shall attend educational/vocational programs in the most appropriate and least restrictive educational setting for the foster child, including, but not limited to, attending regular classes conducted in accredited elementary, middle, and secondary schools within the community.B. Regular school attendance or an educational plan is required for each foster child according to school attendance laws; a suitable, quiet, well-lighted place for study shall be provided together with necessary books, papers, pencils and other equipment which are reasonably required by school-age children. Foster parents shall review grade reports and other information received from teachers or school authorities with foster children in care and shall counsel and assist foster children regarding adequate classroom performance. The parent, guardian or authority with responsibility for the foster child shall be advised of school performance. Reasonable efforts shall be made to involve a foster child in extracurricular activities. The foster parents shall attend school staffings, conferences, and Individualized Educational Plan meetings when possible.C. Foster children attending school shall be permitted to participate in school extracurricular activities to the extent of their interests and abilities and in accordance with each individual foster child's plan.D. In order to ensure that all students who may have disabilities are provided an appropriate education, the foster care home, in cooperation with the certifying authority, shall ensure that adequate "Child Find" procedures are utilized. Such procedures shall be developed cooperatively with Local Education Agencies (LEA) in accordance with Exceptional Children's Educational Act rules and regulations and LEA procedures. Child Find includes a process for screening, referring, assessing and staffing students suspected of having a disabling condition.7.708.39Community Participation [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. Community activities shall be supported. The foster parent shall receive training in how to determine whether to approve a child's or youth's participation in an extracurricular, enrichment, cultural, or social activity, based upon the criteria in Section 7.701.200.B. The foster care home shall consider and be sensitive to identity of the child and/or youth, including, but not limited to, cultural, spiritual and/or religious needs. The foster care home shall involve a foster child in activities appropriate to his/her identity, including, but not limited to, consideration of the child's family, community, neighborhood, school activities, friends, and the child's and family's primary language.C. The foster care home shall utilize available services, facilities, and activity programs of the community, and foster children shall be given opportunities to participate as individuals or as a group in agency-sponsored recreational and cultural programs.D. With the approval of the certifying authority, the foster care home may deduct reasonable sums from a foster child's allowance as restitution for damages done by the foster child. Restitution must be negotiated with the foster child and based on the foster child's ability to pay. A written record of damages and any restitution paid by a foster child must be maintained by the foster care home and certifying authority.E. Chores at the foster care home are considered part of the participatory responsibility of living together. They shall provide constructive experiences in accordance with the age and ability of the foster child.F. All chores shall be scheduled so as not to conflict with other essential scheduled activities.G. The foster care home shall comply with all child labor laws and regulations in making work assignments, with consideration for agricultural work assignments in those communities.H. Paid or voluntary work assignments outside of the foster care home shall be approved by foster parent(s) and the county designee for the foster child, who shall know the employer, the specific type of work, and the conditions of employment.I. A foster child shall not be exploited. A foster child may not participate in solicitation on behalf of the foster care home or certifying authority for a fund-raising activity without the written permission of the parent(s) or guardian(s) for each specific activity, and the foster child must be willing to participate in the activity.7.708.4PERSONAL CARE AND SAFETY OF THE FOSTER CHILD7.708.41Medical and Health ServicesA. A general medical examination for each foster child/youth must be completed or scheduled with a physician or a nurse practitioner prior to or within fourteen (14) calendar days following placement at the foster care home. If the governor or local government declares a disaster or emergency, and because of the declared disaster or emergency the medical exams cannot be completed for the child/youth in the required time frame, the medical exam must be completed as soon as possible, but no later than 45 calendar days after the declared conclusion of the disaster or emergency. If the child/youth has received a medical examination within the previous twelve (12) months, another medical examination is not required during that year as long as the foster home has written documentation of the previous medical exam. A statement from the examiner shall be retained in the foster child's/youth's file. This exam shall include the following: 1. An examination for physical injury and disease.2. Vision and hearing screening.3. A current assessment of the foster child's/youth's health, including immunizations.B. Whenever indicated, a foster child/youth shall be referred to an appropriate specialist for either further assessment or treatment.C. Subsequent physical and other examinations shall be done annually or as directed, in writing, by the physician or other qualified health professional.D. Dental examinations, appropriate to the age of the foster child/youth, must have been completed within four months prior to placement or scheduled or completed within eight (8) weeks following placement. The foster care home or governing body shall ensure that each foster child/youth receives a dental examination every six months or as required in writing by a dentist. If the governor or local government declares a disaster or emergency, and because of the declared disaster or emergency the dental exams cannot be completed for the child/youth in the required time frame, the dental exam must be completed as soon as possible, but no later than 45 calendar days after the declared conclusion of the disaster or emergency.E. At all times there shall be First Aid supplies readily available at the foster care home. Each foster parent must be certified in first aid, or the equivalent, and CPR for all ages of foster children/youth in care. 1. If the governor or local government declares a disaster or emergency, and because of the declared disaster or emergency, the foster parent(s) cannot take the first aid class in a classroom with the first aid trainer, the first aid training may be completed online. The foster parent(s) must then complete the classroom training with first aid trainer as soon as possible, but no later than 45 calendar days after the declared conclusion of the disaster or emergency.2. If the governor or local government declares a disaster or emergency, and because of the declared disaster or emergency, the foster parent(s) cannot take the cpr class in a classroom with the cpr trainer, and the foster parent(s) has successfully completed a cpr class within the last five (5) years, the foster parent(s) may take the cpr class online. The foster parent(s) must then complete the classroom training with a cpr instructor as soon as possible, but no later than 45 calendar days after the declared conclusion of the disaster or emergency.F. The foster care home, in conjunction with the parent(s) or guardian(s), shall make every effort to ensure that a foster child/youth needing corrective devices such as glasses, hearing aids, etc., is provided with the necessary equipment. The placing authority for the foster child/youth shall assist with obtaining resources as necessary to fulfill this requirement.G. The foster care home has the right to request a statement regarding the foster child's/youth's general health from a medical examiner. In a potentially life-threatening situation, the foster care home shall refer the foster child's/youth's care to the appropriate medical and legal authority. If a foster child/youth wishes an exemption from a medical examination or medical treatment due to religious beliefs, the foster child/youth shall submit a written statement signed by his/her parent(s) or guardian(s) which states the reasons for such an exemption. The foster care home has the right to refuse admission to a foster child/youth whose parent(s) or guardian(s) refuses medical treatment or examination based upon religious convictions.H. Foster parents shall be aware of and shall observe foster children for signs of illness or disease and shall respond to and care for a foster child suffering from illness, accident or injury. If contagious, the foster child affected should be isolated from other children in the home and made as comfortable as possible. First aid care shall be provided as required. If additional care, medical attention or removal from the home is indicated, the appropriate person with responsibility for the foster child shall be contacted and medical assistance shall be obtained without undue delay. A written record of any illness or injury to a foster child shall be retained in each foster child's individual record.I. The foster care home shall regularly maintain and update a foster child's Human Services Health Passport, or a document containing all the information listed in the Health Passport, for foster children placed by a county department of human or social services. This document is to be photocopied regularly and submitted to the foster child's caseworker. The original of the document shall be given to the caseworker upon the foster child's discharge so that it can be given to the foster care home where the foster child is being admitted or to the foster child's parent(s), guardian(s), or family member(s) with whom the foster child is placed. J. Medications shall be administered and stored in the following manner 1. When a foster child first goes into care, the foster care home shall ascertain all medication the foster child is currently taking.2. All medication must be kept in a clean storage area inaccessible to foster children and stored according to pharmacy instructions.3. All prescriptive medications shall be administered only upon the written prescription of a physician. The foster care home shall also obtain written authorization from the prescribing physician to administer any non- prescriptive medication.4. In an emergency situation, non- prescriptive medication may be administered on the verbal authorization of a physician. Written confirmation must then be obtained for the verbal authorization.5. The foster care home shall maintain for each foster child a cumulative record of all medication, both prescriptive and non-prescriptive dispensed to that foster child, including: a. The name of the foster child.b. The name and dosage of medication.c. The time and date the medication was dispensed.d. The name or initials of the person administering the medication.7.708.42Food and NutritionA. The foster care home shall provide nutritious foods in the variety and amounts as appropriate for the age, appetite, and activity of each foster child in care.B. At least three nourishing, wholesome, well-balanced meals a day shall be offered at regular intervals except when foster children receive their morning and/or noon meal(s) at school. No more than fourteen (14) hours shall elapse between the evening and morning meals. Nourishing snacks shall be part of the daily food provided.C. Family meals including all children and adults present in the home shall be provided whenever possible.D. Foster children shall be encouraged to eat a variety of the food served but shall not be subjected to undue coercion, including forced feeding, or punished for refusal to eat.E. All food shall be from sources approved or considered satisfactory by the health authority. All foods shall be stored, prepared, and served in such a manner as to be clean, wholesome, free from spoilage, and safe for human consumption. Only pasteurized milk shall be served. Fruits, vegetables and meats may be frozen.F. There shall be a record made of the special diets prescribed and prepared for a foster child.G. Foster children must not be given foods that are contrary to their religious beliefs, or of their family, or are known to cause an allergic reaction or a health hazard.H. Water shall be readily accessible to foster children.I. Common drinking cups shall not be permitted.7.708.43Personal Hygiene and Daily Routine [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. The foster care home shall ensure that foster children receive training in good habits of personal care, hygiene, and grooming appropriate to their age, gender, and identity.1. There shall be supervision by foster parents to provide for proper grooming and physical cleanliness of the foster children.2. The foster care home shall ensure that foster children are provided with necessary and appropriate toiletry items, including clean, individual towels and washcloths, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, hair brush, soap, skin lotion, and shampoo.3. Foster children shall be encouraged or assisted to maintain cleanliness or good hygiene: teeth shall be brushed each day and more frequently when possible.B. The foster care home shall have basic daily routines for foster children in care. 1. Daily routines shall not be allowed to conflict with the implementation of a foster child's Family Services Plan.2. Daily routines shall be established for mealtimes, waking, and bedtimes.3. Opportunity for physical exercise shall be planned for each foster child.7.708.44Clothing and Personal Belongings [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. The foster care home shall allow a foster child in care to bring his/her personal belongings to the program, as defined by the foster care home policy, and to acquire belongings of his/her own. However, the foster care home shall, as necessary, limit or supervise the use of these items while the foster child is in care. Where extraordinary limitations are imposed, the foster child shall be informed of the reasons, in a language or manner of communication the foster child can understand.B. The foster care home shall ensure that each foster child in care has adequate clean, proper-fitting, attractive, and seasonable clothing as required for health, comfort, and physical well-being and as appropriate to age, gender, individual needs, and identity. 1. Each foster child's clothing shall be distinguished as his/her own.2. A foster child's clothing shall be kept clean and in good repair. The foster child shall be involved, as appropriate, in the care and maintenance of his/her clothing. As appropriate, laundering, ironing, and sewing facilities shall be accessible to the foster child.C. The foster care home in conjunction with the placing authority shall ensure that discharge plans make provisions for clothing needs at time of discharge. The wardrobe for each foster child shall go with him/her at time of discharge.7.708.45Emergency Drills [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. There shall be a plan for foster parent(s) and foster children to follow in case of emergency or disaster. The plan shall include provisions for roles and responsibilities during an emergency, evacuation of the foster care home and the assignment of a central meeting place where each individual may be accounted for.B. Fire exit drills must be held often enough so that all occupants are familiar with the drill procedure and their conduct during a drill is a matter of established routine.C. Drills must be held at unexpected times and under varying conditions to simulate the conditions of an actual fire.D. Drills must emphasize orderly evacuation under proper discipline rather than speed. Running or horseplay shall not be permitted.E. Drills must include suitable procedures for ensuring that all persons in the foster care home actually participate.F. A record of fire drills must be recorded by the foster care home.G. Smoke alarm devices shall be regularly used in the conduct of drills.H. The foster care home shall make special provisions for the evacuation of any foster child with a disability in the foster care home.I. The foster care home shall take special care to help emotionally disturbed or perceptually handicapped foster children understand the nature of such drills.J. If appropriate to the location of the foster care home, tornado drills must be held often enough so that all occupants are familiar with the drill procedure and conducting a drill is a matter of established routine. A record of tornado drills must be recorded by the foster care home.7.708.46Transportation [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. A foster care home or certifying authority shall ensure that each foster child is provided with the transportation necessary for implementing the foster child's family service plan.B. A foster care home shall have means of transporting foster children in cases of emergency.C. Any vehicle used by the foster care home in transporting foster children in care, whether such vehicle is operated by a foster parent or any other person acting on behalf of the foster care home, shall be property licensed, and the vehicle shall be maintained in accordance with Colorado law.D. Any foster parent or other person acting on behalf of the foster care home operating a vehicle for purpose of transporting foster children shall be properly licensed to operate the class of vehicle in accordance with Colorado law.E. Foster children must be properly fastened into a restraint system that conforms to all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and that are pursuant to Colorado law.F. A foster care home shall not allow the number of persons in any vehicle used to transport foster children to exceed the number of available seats in the vehicle.G. The vehicle shall be enclosed and provided with door locks.H. A foster care home shall ascertain the nature of any need or problem of a foster child which might cause difficulty during transportation, such as seizures or a tendency toward motion sickness. The family foster care home shall communicate this information to the driver of any vehicle transporting foster children in care.7.708.5RECORDS AND REPORTS7.708.51RecordsA. The foster care home, in conjunction with the certifying authority, shall maintain complete records as required for the licensing or certification of the foster care home in accordance with the rules regulating foster care homes.B. Records for foster children shall be retained for at least three years. Retention of records for a longer period may be desirable when they reflect an accident, injury or other unusual circumstance.C. A record of admission shall be completed for each foster child in care prior to or at the time of placement. The admission record shall be maintained at the foster care home where the foster child resides and shall contain: 1. Foster child's name, date and place of birth (verified by a birth certificate when possible), gender, race, religious preferences of parent(s) or foster child, date and reason for placement.2. Foster child's address and telephone number, parent(s) or guardian(s) address and telephone number if different from the foster child.3. Name, address, day and nighttime telephone number of individual or agency placing the foster child with the name of individual arranging the placement.4. Any documents pertaining to the foster child's legal status such as court orders, including the appointment of a Guardian ad litem and/or counsel for youth, legal guardianship, or custody agreements.5. A copy of the placement agreement pursuant to 7.708.61, K.6. Health records including a health history, chronic medical problems of the foster child, illnesses the foster child has had during the last six months and a complete list of all medications the foster child is taking.D. Each foster child's file shall also include:1. Current medical and dental reports, accident, injury, or illness reports, record of medication administered and necessary medical care provided to the foster child while in placement.2. Copies of educational records and reports of school work, including scholastic performance, certificates of achievement or award, copies of school pictures, extracurricular interests.3. The foster child's Family Services Plan, a summary of the periodic evaluations of the foster child's progress and resultant changes in the Family Services Plan.4. Psychiatric and psychological summaries, when available.5. Summary recording of significant contacts with parent(s), guardian(s) and other involved agencies.6. If requested by the provider, a written notice to employees of the Department of Human Services and of county departments or other individuals with a need to know, if the foster parents do not want personally identifiable information provided to adult members of the foster child's family. Written notice may be subsequently provided to the parties aforementioned for release of personally identifiable information to the foster child's family which shall include the consent to release information, the foster parent's signature, and the date.7.708.52Reports [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]The following information shall be reported consistent with the requirements in Section 7.701.52 (12 CCR 2509-8).
A. The foster care home shall immediately notify the foster child's parent(s), guardian(s), and/or the responsible agency of any serious illness or serious injury resulting in medical treatment away from the foster care home, hospitalization or death involving a foster child in care.B. The foster care home shall notify the parent(s), guardian(s), or placing authority as soon as possible upon discovery that a foster child has run away.C. A report about a death must include: 1. The foster child's name, birth date, address, and telephone number.2. The names of the foster child's parent(s) or guardian(s) and their address and telephone number if different from that of the foster child.4. Brief description of the incident or illness leading to the death.5. Names and addresses of witnesses or persons who were with the foster child at the time of death.6. Name and address of police department or authority to whom the report was made.D. The foster care home shall notify the certifying authority of any change in the status of the foster care home, police intervention or moving traffic violations that could affect care and safety of foster children.7.708.6CERTIFYING AUTHORITY REQUIREMENTS7.708.61Admission Requirements [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. Admission of a foster child to a foster care home shall be in keeping with the stated purpose of the foster care home and shall be limited to those foster children for whom the foster parent(s) is qualified and by the needs of foster children already in residence to provide the care necessary. Care must be provided in the least restrictive, most appropriate setting in order to meet the foster child's needs.B. Each foster care home or its certifying authority shall have a written admission policy which at a minimum must include: 1. The policies and procedures related to intake.2. The age range and sex of foster children accepted/admitted for care.3. The needs, problems, situations or patterns best addressed by the foster care home.4. Any pre-placement requirements for the foster child, the parent(s) or guardian, and/or the placing agency.5. The anticipated problems or situations that would result in the foster care home or certifying authority requesting removal of a foster child from placement prior to the planned discharge.C. The written description of admission policies and criteria shall be provided to referring agencies.D. Information regarding the prospective foster child shall be discussed with the foster parent(s) as early as possible prior to placement. The foster care home shall accept a foster child into care only after a preliminary assessment/screening of presenting problems in areas such as social, physical health, mental health, psychological concerns, previous physical or sexual abuse, and concerns about previous delinquent, assaultive, or destructive behavior, if appropriate, has been conducted.E. It is desirable for the foster child to visit and become familiar with the foster parents, the foster care home and other persons living in the home prior to placement.F. For each foster child referred for placement, the foster care home shall be provided with a current comprehensive intake assessment, including a social, health, and family history, developmental assessment, mental health, and a psychological summary, if determined to be necessary by the foster care home or certifying authority. Educational records shall be provided if appropriate. As much of this information as possible shall be provided to the foster parent prior to admission, but the total assessment shall be completed by the placing authority within one month after admission. If the foster care home or certifying authority is unable to obtain this information within these time periods or is totally unable to obtain the information, the certifying authority must document its attempts to obtain the information and reasons for not obtaining the information.G. At the time of placement, the foster parent(s) shall be provided with a record of admission as outlined in Section 7.708.51.C . The Medicaid card shall be given to the foster parent(s) for Medicaid eligible foster children as soon as possible after placement. If a foster child is placed at the foster care home as an emergency placement, the foster care home shall be provided with at least the following information: name, birth date, if available, and physical description of the foster child, date and time of the admission; name, address telephone number and authority of person bringing the foster child to the foster care home, and the reason for placement. Any other information that may be available should be recorded at the time of placement or as it becomes available. The date that placement terminates shall also be recorded.H. For all placements of foster children, previous medical records should be obtained and pertinent information from those records, including immunization records shall be given to foster parents within four weeks of the initial placement. The medical history shall contain, to the maximum degree possible, the information listed in the Colorado Department of Human Services Health Passport.I. Preparation of the foster child for admission shall be in a manner consistent with the foster child's age and ability to participate in the plan and to understand the reason for the placement.J. Prior to placement of the foster child at the foster care home, the, guardian(s), and/or placing agency must be notified of the religious practice, philosophy, and affiliation of the foster care home.K. The placement agreement shall be developed with the involvement of the foster child, the parent(s) or guardian(s) and the representative of the placing agency. Where the involvement of any of these is not feasible or desirable, the reasons for the exclusion shall be recorded by the certifying authority. The placement agreement shall include by reference or attachment at a minimum the following:1. Discussion of the foster child's and the parent's or guardian's expectations regarding: family contact and involvement: how family contact and involvement are to occur; the nature and goals of care, including any specialized services or specialized treatment to De provided: the religious orientation and practices of the foster child and, or family; and the anticipated planned discharge date and plan for the foster child following discharge.2. The policy and procedure to be followed regarding the use of physical management in an emergency pursuant to Section 7.714.53 , et seq., and Section 7.708.36.3. A delineation of the respective roles and responsibilities of all agencies and persons involved with the foster child and his/her family.4. Written authorization for care and treatment of the foster child.5. Written authorization to obtain routine medical and dental care for the foster child and to obtain emergency medical and dental care.6. Legal status or custody of the foster child.7. If a foster child is being placed by a Colorado county department of human or social services, the appropriate state form or contract shall be completed. This form or contract may provide some of the required authorizations and shall require that the foster parent is trained in how to apply the reasonable and prudent parent standard.7.708.62Foster Children's Grievance Procedure [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]The certifying authority must establish a written grievance procedure that provides adequate due process safeguards, spells out the appeal process, and assures that foster children and parent(s) or guardian(s) are entitled to report any grievance and shall not be subject to any adverse action as a result of filing the grievance.
A. The foster care home and/or certifying authority for the foster care home must follow grievance procedures without alteration, interference, or unreasonable delay.B. If a grievance is filed with the foster care home, the grievance shall be recorded in the foster child's official case record along with the investigation findings and resulting action taken by the foster care home or certifying authority. Information regarding the grievance must be sent to the individual or agency holding legal custody of the foster child.7.708.63Comprehensive Program for Medical Care for the Foster Child [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]The certifying authority shall ensure the availability of a comprehensive program of preventive, routine, and emergency medical and dental care for each foster child in care. Every reasonable effort shall be made to obtain routine and corrective dental care. The certifying authority shall have a written plan for providing such care. This plan shall include at a minimum:
A. Ongoing appraisal of the general health of each foster child, including immunizations, in accordance with state law and regulations.B. Procedures for obtaining diagnostic services, emergency care, including the availability of emergency medical care on a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week basis, corrective care, recuperative care, and immunization updates.C. Provision of health education, which includes sex education, and birth control information and education, age appropriate to the foster child.D. Provision that any medical treatment administered will be explained to the foster child in a language or manner of communication understandable to him/her.E. The provision of dental care by a Colorado-licensed dentist, who is available to the foster care home.F. Procedures for dispensing medication, storage of medication, documentation of administration of all medication, disposing of medications when not needed or no longer in use, and notification to a primary physician in cases of medication errors and/or drug reactions.7.708.64On-Going Health of Foster Care Parents [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. A certifying authority shall not certify or continue to certify any person whose health, or emotional or psychological makeup impairs his/her ability to properly protect the health and safety of foster children.B. A certifying authority shall not allow a foster parent provide care for foster children if the foster parent, upon examination or as a result of tests, shows indication of a physical condition which could be hazardous to a foster child, or self, or which would prevent performance of duties.C. If in the opinion of a licensed health care professional or licensed mental health practitioner, a medical, emotional or psychological condition exists at any time which may jeopardize the health and/or safety of foster children or adversely affect the ability of foster home parents to care for such foster children, the issuance of a certificate shall be conditioned upon the satisfactory report of the licensed health care professional and, if foster children are in care, the certifying authority shall contact the appropriate social/ human services personnel to make satisfactory arrangements for the temporary care of foster children.D. The unfavorable report from any medical evaluation concerning the physical, mental health or emotional stability of any foster care parent or applicant must be evaluated and may be grounds for denial, revocation or making probationary of a foster care certificate.7.708.65Orientation, Training, and Certification [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. The certifying authority shall have a comprehensive written plan for the orientation, pre-certification training, certification, and ongoing training of foster parents. 1. The certifying authority shall have an introductory training and orientation program for all foster parents. This program shall include, at a minimum, twenty-seven hours of initial core training consisting of at least twelve (12) hours prior to placement of a child and the remaining hours to be completed within 3 months after placement, including the reasonable and prudent parent standard, orientation to emergency and safety procedures and the general and specific duties and responsibilities of being a foster parent.2. If a child is placed with a foster care family on an emergency basis, twelve (12) hours of core training must be completed and the remaining hours of training competed within 4 months from the date of placement. An emergency means that a child's safety is subject to actual or likely harm, immediate or emerging, serious or sever, which requires control.3. The certifying authority shall maintain written documentation of specific in-service training held, foster parents participating, the hours involved, and/or other on-going training activities in which foster parents were involved.B. The certifying authority shall create a training development plan for each foster parent(s) to document the strengths and competencies of the foster parent(s) and to identify those areas in which additional training is needed.C. The certifying authority shall document that foster parents receive quality, appropriate, competency-based training in the following areas that builds on basic competencies of the foster parent(s) established through life experiences and pre-certification training. 1. The foster care home's emergency and safety procedures, including but not limited to fire evacuation drills, tornado drills, where appropriate, and flood evacuation drills, where appropriate, on at least a semiannual basis.2. The principles and practices of child care, including developmentally appropriate practices.3. The certifying authority's administrative procedures and overall program goals.4. Acceptable behavior management techniques that comply with these rules and, if applicable, Section 7.708.36 and Section 7.714.53, et seq.5. Acceptable discipline techniques that comply with these rules.6. Appropriate boundaries (both physical and emotional) between foster parents and foster children while in placement at the foster care home and after discharge.7. Positive and constructive methods of dealing with the foster child, including but not limited to, physical structuring of the environment and de-escalation of crisis situations.8. The foster parent is trained and knowledgeable, and has the competencies required to apply the reasonable and prudent parent standard based upon the criteria in Section 7.701.200.9. Annual review of these regulations by foster parents.D. Training requirements for the initial year of certification are as follows: 1. Twenty-Seven (27) hours of Core training, as identified in Section 7.708.65, A; and,2. CPR and First Aid training; and,3. Twenty (20) hours of ongoing specialized training.E. Annually, each foster parent, except therapeutic foster parents or treatment foster parents, must complete twenty hours of on-going specific training as required in his/her training development plan. Training must include at least the areas listed above. Therapeutic or treatment foster parents providing therapeutic services must complete an additional twelve hours of on-going training annually for a total of thirty-two hours of training in such areas as dynamics of victimization issues, with emphasis on appropriate age and developmental levels; and the individual needs of the foster children in care. All providers serving children funded by the Children's Habilitation Residential Program (CHRP) must complete thirty-two (32) hours of ongoing specific training as identified in their training development plan.7.708.66Transportation Policy [Rev. eff. 4/1/12]The certifying authority shall have a written policy in compliance with Colorado statute(s), Department of Revenue and Department of Motor Vehicle requirements concerning the circumstances a vehicle may be driven by a licensed foster child alone or with a passenger. Such driving privileges shall be a part of the foster child's family services plan.
7.708.67Limitation of Foster Children's Personal Belongings [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]The decision and reasons why a foster care home would limit a foster child's access to his/her personal belongings brought to the foster home upon admission shall be recorded in the foster child's case record maintained by the placing authority.
7.708.68Personal Allowance and Work OpportunitiesFoster children shall be provided personal allowance and/or work opportunities according to the established policy of the certifying authority and shall have opportunities appropriate to the foster child's age and development to experience the use and value of money by making purchases for items according to their own choice.
A. Money earned, received as a gift, or received as allowance by a foster child in care shall be deemed to be that foster child's personal property.B. Limitations may be placed on the amount of money a foster child may possess or have access to when such limitations are considered to be in the foster child's best interests.7.708.69Confidentiality of Records and ReportsA. The certifying authority shall have a policy as to the maintenance, storage and confidentiality of records.B. Records shall be the property of the certifying authority and shall be protected against loss, tampering, or unauthorized use.C. Facts learned about foster children and their families shall be kept confidential, with the following exceptions: 1. In medical emergencies, and then only when the assistance and/or expertise is required of that unauthorized person; or,2. The foster child, his/her parent(s) or guardian(s) and their respective legal counsel(s), a court having jurisdiction over the foster child, or an authorized public official, or certifying/licensing representative in performance of his/her mandated duties; or,3. If the parent(s) or guardian(s) has given voluntary, written consent.7.708.7AUTHORITY TO WAIVE NON-SAFETY CERTIFICATION STANDARDS FOR KINSHIP FAMILY FOSTER CARE PROVIDERS [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]Pursuant to Section 26-6-106(6)(a), C.R.S., a county director or his/her designee may waive non-safety certification standards for prospective or current kinship foster care providers defined in Section 7.708.11 (12 CCR 2509-8). The safety and well-being of the child and/or youth shall not be compromised. The following non-safety certification standards may be waived case-by-case:
A. Certification of Foster Care Homes 1. Two (2) of three (3) references are not related to the applicant referenced in Section 7.708.21, F.2. Certificates shall not be granted to applicants who are less than twenty-one (21) years of age on the date of application referenced in Section 7.708.21, H.3. A license or certificate shall not be granted for a foster care home unless the application has demonstrated the ability to manage a household so that the certifying authority may determine that the applicant is able to acquire food, materials, and other equipment as may be required for child care referenced in Section 7.708.21, K.4. Each foster parent shall have a health assessment within one (1) year prior to certification or within thirty (30) calendar days after certification and thereafter as required, in writing, by a licensed health care professional. The reports of the medical examinations shall be dated and signed by the examining physician or nurse practitioner and shall be provided to the certifying authority. Reports shall include a statement of the evaluation of the person's physical ability to care for children and youth in foster care. If, in the opinion of the licensed health care professional or the assessment worker, an emotional or psychological condition exists which would have a negative impact on the care of children and youth in foster care, the issuance of a license shall be conditioned upon the satisfactory report of a licensed mental health practitioner referenced in Section 7.708.21, L.
B. Facility Standards 1. A minimum of seventy-five (75) square feet per child in foster care who is between twelve (12) months and five (5) years of age referenced in Section 7.708.22, B, 1.2. Archery bows that require professional stringing must be unstrung referenced in Section 7.708.22, B, 2.3. A child or youth shall sleep in a crib or bed in a clean, well-ventilated room, which is not customarily used for other purposes such as a kitchen, dining room, hall, or bathroom. There shall be a minimum of forty (40) square feet of floor space for the bed for each child or youth in foster care, and they should be placed at least two feet apart when arranged in parallel referenced in Section 7.708.22, B, 8.4. No foster care home shall be used for rental income referenced in Section 7.708.22, B, 9.5. All stairways containing more than four (4) steps shall be equipped with a handrail referenced in Section 7.708.26, E.C. Ongoing Operation of Foster Care Homes1. Except for emergency placements, children and youth in foster care over the age of eighteen (18) months shall not sleep in the same room as unrelated adults on a regular basis. Sleeping rooms for unrelated children and youth in foster care shall not be shared by others in foster care who are of the opposite sex when one of the individuals in foster care is over four (4) years old as referenced in Section 7.708.31, G, 3.2. Not more than two (2) infants, whether birth, adoptive, or foster children under the age of two (2) years, shall be cared for in a foster care home, except under unusual circumstances such as multiple births, referenced in Section 7.708.31, H, 1.3. Personal Care and Safety of the Foster Child a. Home pressure-canned fruits and vegetables and canned meats cannot be served, referenced in Section 7.708.42, E.b. Each foster child's clothing shall be distinguished as his/her own clothing, referenced in Section 7.708.44, B, 1.7.708.71Procedures for Waiving Non-Safety Certification Standards [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A. Each waiver shall be considered case-by-case; and,B. Shall be documented on the prescribed State Department form; and,C. The documentation shall contain a description of the applicability of the waiver to the safety or well-being needs of the child and/or youth with a kinship/relative relationship to the prospective or current kinship foster care provider; and,D. The documentation shall be placed in the certification record; and,E. A summary of the waiver information shall be documented on the certificate.7.708.72Special Conditions, Restrictions, or Requirements for Certification of Prospective Current Kinship Foster Care Providers [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]A county director or his/her designee may take the following actions to address the safety or well-being needs of a child or youth:
A. Require special conditions for certification;B. Limit or restrict a certificate; and/or,C. Require a written agreement for compliance.7.708.73Circumstances When Certification Standards Shall not be Waived [Eff. 12/1/12]A. The safety or well-being of a child or youth is compromised.B. Background checks, including:1. A fingerprint-based criminal history check of CBI and FBI records;2. A child abuse/neglect records check in every state where the adult has resided in the five (5) years preceding the date of application for each adult eighteen (18) years of age and older) living in the home;3. A comparison search in the Colorado State Courts data access, using the name and date of birth with available criminal history information for each adult eighteen (18) years and older living in the home;C. Twenty-seven (27) hours of initial pre-certification training and ongoing training referenced in Section 7.708.65, C and D; and/or,D. Required denials of applications or certificates referenced in Section 7.500.312, D and 26-6-104(7)(a)(I) (A-F), C.R.S.7.708.74Appeals of Decisions [Rev. eff. 1/1/16]Prospective and current kinship foster care home providers do not have the right to appeal the decision made by a county director or his/her designee related to waivers of non-safety certification standards.
37 CR 13, July 10, 2014, effective 8/1/201438 CR 04, February 25, 2015, effective 4/1/201538 CR 17, September 10, 2015, effective 10/1/201538 CR 19, October 10, 2015, effective 11/1/201538 CR 23, December 10, 2015, effective 1/1/201639 CR 01, January 10, 2016, effective 2/1/201639 CR 17, September 10, 2016, effective 10/1/201640 CR 05, March 10, 2017, effective 4/1/201740 CR 17, September 10, 2017, effective 10/1/201741 CR 01, January 10, 2018, effective 2/1/201841 CR 03, February 10, 2018, effective 3/2/201841 CR 05, March 10, 2018, effective 4/1/201841 CR 17, September 10, 2018, effective 9/30/201840 CR 23, December 10, 2017, effective 12/30/201841 CR 23, December 10, 2018, effective 1/1/201942 CR 01, January 10, 2019, effective 2/1/201942 CR 03, February 10, 2019, effective 3/15/201942 CR 09, May 10, 2019, effective 6/1/201943 CR 01, January 10, 2020, effective 1/30/202043 CR 15, August 10, 2020, effective 9/1/202043 CR 17, September 10, 2020, effective 9/30/202044 CR 01, January 10, 2021, effective 1/30/202144 CR 05, March 10, 2021, effective 4/1/202144 CR 11, June 10, 2021, effective 6/30/202144 CR 17, September 10, 2021, effective 10/1/202144 CR 21, November 10, 2021, effective 12/1/202145 CR 15, August 10, 2022, effective 7/8/202245 CR 17, September 10, 2022, effective 9/30/202246 CR 03, February 10, 2022, effective 3/2/202346 CR 05, March 10, 2023, effective 4/1/202346 CR 07, April 10, 2023, effective 6/1/2023