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SB 1149

DCS; periodic review hearings

57th Legislature - Second Regular Session Introduced by Hildy Angius and 2 co-sponsors

SB 1149 modifies Arizona DCS periodic review hearing procedures for foster children, affecting court timelines and oversight of child welfare case progression.

House Second Reading
0
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Bill Summary · SB 1149

Legislative bill overview

SB 1149 modifies Arizona's Department of Child Safety (DCS) procedures regarding periodic review hearings for children in the foster care system. The bill adjusts the timeline, frequency, or procedural requirements for these mandatory court reviews that assess whether children should remain in state custody or be reunified with families.

Why is this important

Periodic review hearings are critical safeguards in child welfare cases—they determine whether foster placements remain appropriate and whether family reunification efforts are progressing. Changes to these procedures directly affect thousands of Arizona children in care and influence how quickly cases move through the system, potentially impacting both child safety and family reunification outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Judicial oversight concerns: Modifications to review procedures could alter the balance between DCS administrative authority and judicial oversight of child welfare decisions
  • Reunification vs. permanency: Changes may affect the timeline for reunification efforts versus moving toward permanent placement alternatives, creating tension between conflicting policy goals
  • Implementation burden: Adjustments to hearing schedules or requirements could create logistical challenges for courts, DCS caseworkers, and legal representatives already managing heavy caseloads

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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