38-2263. Permanency planning. (a) The goal of permanency planning is to assure, in so far as is possible, that children have permanency and stability in their living situations and that the continuity of family relationships and connections is preserved. In planning for permanency, the safety and well being of children shall be paramount.

(b) Whenever a child is subject to the jurisdiction of the court pursuant to the code, an initial permanency plan shall be developed for the child and submitted to the court within 30 days of the initial order of the court. If the child is in the custody of the secretary, or the secretary is providing services to the child, the secretary shall prepare the plan. Otherwise, the plan shall be prepared by the person who has custody or, if directed by the court, by a court services officer.

(c) A permanency plan is a written document prepared in consultation with the child, if the child is 14 years of age or older and the child is able, and, where possible, in consultation with the child's parents, and which:

(1) Describes the permanency goal which, if achieved, will most likely give the child a permanent and safe living arrangement;

(2) describes the child's level of physical health, mental and emotional health, and educational functioning;

(3) provides an assessment of the needs of the child and family;

(4) describes the services to be provided the child, the child's parents and the child's foster parents, if appropriate;

(5) includes a description of the tasks and responsibilities designed to achieve the plan and to whom assigned; and

(6) includes measurable objectives and time schedules for achieving the plan.

(d) In addition to the requirements of subsection (c), if the child is in an out of home placement, the permanency plan shall include:

(1) A plan for reintegration of the child's parent or parents or if reintegration is determined not to be a viable alternative, a statement for the basis of that conclusion and a plan for another permanent living arrangement;

(2) a description of the available placement alternatives;

(3) a justification for the placement selected, including a description of the safety and appropriateness of the placement; and

(4) a description of the programs and services which will help the child prepare to live independently as an adult.

(e) If there is a lack of agreement among persons necessary for the success of the permanency plan, the person or entity having custody of the child shall notify the court which shall set a hearing on the plan.

(f) A permanency plan may be amended at any time upon agreement of the plan participants. If a permanency plan requires amendment which changes the permanency goal, the person or entity having custody of the child shall notify the court which shall set a permanency hearing pursuant to K.S.A. 2018 Supp. 38-2264 and 38-2265, and amendments thereto.

History: L. 2006, ch. 200, § 58; L. 2016, ch. 102, § 13; July 1.