1302ja

On the printed bill, delete everything after the enacting clause and insert:

     "

     Section 1. That chapter 26-7A be amended by adding thereto a NEW SECTION to read as follows:

     If a family service specialist employed by the Division of Child Protection Services within the department is contacted by a relative about the relative's desire to take temporary or permanent placement of an alleged or adjudicated abused or neglected child who has been removed from the child's parent, guardian, or custodian, the division shall document the contact in the child's file. The division shall send information to the relative within five business days informing the relative of the steps required in order for the relative to be considered for placement. The information shall be sent by first class mail to the last known address of the relative. Nothing in this section prohibits the division from contacting any other person or agency regarding placement of the child."