Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC)
0100-525.10 | Revision Date: 12/9/2015

Overview

This policy guide reviews the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) including guidelines for placing a child or NMD out-of-state and responding to placement requests from other states.

Table of Contents

Version Summary

This policy guide was updated from the 04/05/2015 version to reflect policy and protocol updates based on All County Letter (ACL) 14-33, regarding nonminor dependents (NMDs) placed out-of-state, to include a third option by which to ensure monthly face-to-face contacts and direct provision of services to NMDs residing out-of-state.

POLICY

The Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC)

The Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC), also referred to as the Compact, is the mechanism by which states ensure protection and services to children placed across state lines for foster care, adoption, parental, relative and residential placements. The Compact is the uniform law enacted by all 50 States, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. It establishes orderly procedures for the interstate placement of children and specifies the responsibilities of those involved in placing the child.

The ICPC applies to all of the following:

  • Placements preliminary to adoption (independent, private or public)
  • Licensed or approved foster homes, including placement with related or unrelated caregivers
  • Placement with parents or relatives when a parent or relative is not making the placement
  • Group homes/ residential placement of all children, including adjudicated delinquents in institutions in other states

The following Interstate Placements are not subject to the ICPC:

  • Non-court cases, except in the case of independent adoptions
  • Placements in medical and mental health facilities
  • International adoptions
  • Out-of-state Visits
  • Placements in boarding schools or any institution primarily educational in character

When a dependent child will be residing with a non-offending parent in another state, compliance with the requirements of the ICPC is not required. However, the court has discretion to take the steps it deems necessary to ensure the child's safety and well-being in that placement, including requests for non-ICPC home study/courtesy checks.

Courts are required to consider both in-state and out-of-state options in a variety of circumstances involving permanency planning decisions.

An Interstate Compact may be terminated under the following circumstances:

  • Child is returned to the sending state
  • Child is adopted
  • Child moves to another state
  • Jurisdiction is terminated with the approval of the receiving state’s Compact office.

Nonminor Dependents

When placing an NMD out-of-state, the sending state retains court jurisdiction, case management and financial responsibility for NMDs. All applicable monthly visit and service requirements that NMDs receive in-state must be met for NMDs when placed out-of-state.

Prior to considering an out-of-state placement for a NMD, the assigned CSW must:

  • At the earliest indication that the youth may be interested in residing out-of-state, have a direct discussion with the dependent youth or NMD regarding the conditions by which an out-of-state placement can be considered.
  • Consult with the DCFS ICPC Unit to discuss placement options in the state the youth would like to reside in to determine:
    • If the other state will continue or accept a new ICPC request for a NMD
    • If DCFS is able to meet the responsibility of approving the placement
    • If DCFS is able to contract with a local child welfare agency that provides Supportive Transition (ST) services in the event the receiving state is unwilling to approve/supervise the placement
    • If the receiving state law allows Social Workers to provide direct services in the receiving state

An out-of-state placement for a NMD may be considered if the NMD will be participating in one of the following activities in the state in which they would like to reside:

  • Completing secondary education or a program leading to an equivalent credential, or
  • Enrolled in an institution which provides post-secondary or vocational education,or
  • Participating in a program or activity designed to promote, or remove barriers to employment, or
  • Employed for at least 80 hours per month, or
  • Incapable of doing any of the activities described in subparagraphs (1) to (4), inclusive, due to a medical condition, and that incapability is supported by regularly updated information in the case plan of the nonminor

If the other state agrees to provide courtesy supervision to an NMD residing out-of-state, the CSW should request documentation of those visits. Some states will not accept an ICPC request or provide either services or supervision to a dependent in foster care beyond age eighteen (18). In the event that a state will not continue or accept a new ICPC request, ICPC may not be used as the vehicle to provide supervision of and/or services to the NMD. In addition to an ICPC, the two other options to ensure provision of services and supervision include:

  • The Department may contract with a local child welfare agency or
  • If services cannot be procured through a local child welfare agency, the CSW or designee, will visit the NMD monthly and provide services within the parameters of local laws of the receiving state, and in consultation with County Counsel.

If the above options are not available and the CSW is unable to practice social work in the receiving state due to the receiving state's laws, the CSW is to consult with County Counsel and the respective Service Bureau Administration.

If a minor youth is placed out-of-state and nearing the age of eighteen (18), contact the ICPC unit a minimum of twelve (12) months prior to the youth's eighteenth (18th) birthday, or as soon as possible, to determine if the receiving state will continue the ICPC after the youth turns eighteen (18).

Role of ICPC Staff

In Los Angeles County, all out-of-state placement requests, are assigned to the Out-of-County Services Unit (also known as the ICPC unit), with the exception of out-of-state group home placements and out-of-state adoption home study requests. When an ICPC placement later requires an adoption Home Study, the Adoption and Permanency Resources Division (APRD) ICPC Coordinator will assign an APRD CSW. 

For out-of-state home study requests where an adoptive family and a dependent child move to California, the Adoption home study is to be assigned to an APRD CSW via the APRD ICPC coordinator. The APRD CSW is responsible for requesting the assignment of a Regional CSW to ensure that monthly child visits are conducted until finalization.

The ICPC is managed by the following staff roles:  ICPC Liaison (SCSW), ICPC Coordinator (CSW), and the Regional Courtesy Supervision Worker (CSW).

ICPC Liaison SCSW

  • Processes placement requests for relatives, foster homes, parents and adoptive homes.
  • Ensures compliance, communication and cooperation between sending and receiving states.
  • Serves as an official link between DCFS staff and the Compact Administrators of each state.
  • Makes changes/agreements necessary to ensure the two state’s departments complete a given task such as approval/denial of home study requests received.

ICPC Coordinator

  • Explains the ICPC process to DCFS staff.
  • Ensures that all required documentation is received from the DCFS Primary CSW and the court for the processing of ICPC placement requests.
  • Establishes tracking logs to monitor the processing time for home study requests.
  • Conducts placement home studies on prospective relatives to determine the suitability for the placement of dependent children from other states.

Regional Courtesy Supervision Worker

  • Assigned to supervise a dependent child placed in Los Angeles County by another state.
  • Supervision by the Regional Courtesy Supervision CSW must:
    • Include face-to-face visits with the child.
    • Have a majority of visits occur in the child’s home.
    • Occur at least once each month and beginning no later than 30 days from the date on which the child is placed, or 30 days from the date on which the receiving state is notified of the child’s placement.
  • Supervision of a dependent youth placed by another state must continue until any of the following occur:
    • The child reaches the age of majority or is legally emancipated.
    • The child’s adoption is finalized.
    • Legal custody of the child is granted to a caregiver or a parent and/or jurisdiction is terminated by the sending state.
    • Legal guardianship of the child is granted to the child’s caregiver or parent in the receiving state.
    • The child no longer resides at the home approved for placement of the child pursuant to Article lll (d) of the ICPC.
    • The sending state requests in writing that supervision be discontinued, and the receiving state concurs.

Interstate Correspondence

All interstate correspondence must be appropriately processed, based on the type of placement request:

Out-of-state Placement

Unit Processing & Controlling Data

Parents, Relative, nonrelative extended family member home, foster home

DCFS Out-of-County Services Unit

1933 S. Broadway

Los Angeles, CA 90007

(213) 765-2680, (213) 742-7070 Fax

Group Home

CDSS Out-of-State Placement Policy (OSPP) Unit, 744 P Street, MS 8-12-90

Sacramento, CA 95814

(916) 651-8100, (916) 651-8144 Fax http://www.childsworld.ca.gov/PG1316.htm 

Adoptive Home Study

ICPC APRD Coordinator

Metroplex Office, 3530 Wilshire Blvd., 5th floor

Los Angeles, CA 90010

(213) 351-0265

ICPC Home Study Requests

All ICPC home study requests must be court ordered and the minute order must be signed by the judge. For ICPC home study requests made prior to disposition of the case, CSWs must consult with the ICPC coordinator, as some states will not accept pre-disposition cases.

For adoptions, parental rights must be terminated prior to requesting an adoption home study. However, certain states may accept an adoption home study request prior to the termination of parental rights if there are no legal risks. Each pre-TPR request for the following states should be discussed with the APRD ICPC Coordinator prior to making a referral: Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Virgin Islands, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. All other states require TPR without exception.

A placement home study must be completed, decided upon, and returned to the sending state within 60 days from the date the request is received.This home study should include a determination of licensing status, if applicable, in the receiving state. All ICPC packet processing time frames must be documented.  The 60 day timeline begins on the date the case is opened in CWS/CMS.

The sending state has 14 days upon receipt of the placement home study from another state to determine, based on specific contents of the report, if placement in that state is not in the best interest of the child.

Placement and Retaining Jurisdiction

Placements from one state into another require the cooperation and agreement of agencies in both states. This includes situations where children are being sent to live with parents, relatives or out-of-home care placements. Placement cannot be made until the Los Angeles County ICPC Liaison has received the approved home study from the receiving state.

The sending state retains jurisdiction over the child and will continue to determine all matters of custody, supervision, care, treatment and disposition of the child until one of the following occurs:

  • The child is adopted.
  • The child reaches majority.
  • The child is legally emancipated and is self-supporting.
  • Dependency is dismissed with the agreement of the appropriate authority in the receiving state.

Termination of jurisdiction cannot be recommended until approval has been obtained from the receiving state.

Expedited Placement of a Child from another State

Expedited, out-of-state placements are meant to help protect the safety of children, to minimize the trauma of multiple placements, and to provide the sending state court and/or sending agency with expedited approval or denial.

The proposed placement recipient must be a parent, stepparent, grandparent, adult uncle or aunt, adult brother or sister, or the child’s guardian. An expedited, out-of-state placement may be requested if one or more of the following criteria are met:

  • There is an unexpected dependency of a child, due to a sudden or recent incarceration, incapacitation or death of a parent or guardian.
  • The child is four years of age or younger.
    • Expedited requests may also be made for older siblings seeking to be placed with the same placement resource.
  • The court finds that any child in the sibling group seeking to be placed has a substantial relationship with the proposed placement resource.
  • The child is currently in an emergency placement of thirty (30) days or less in duration.

The placement does not meet the expedited placement criteria if:

  • The child is already placed in violation of the ICPC in the receiving state.
  • The intention of the sending state is for licensed or approved foster care or adoption.

Out-of-State Visitation Provisions

Dependent children may visit out-of-state for up to thirty (30) days. A stay or proposed stay longer than (30) days is considered a placement or proposed placement. The only exception is a visit longer than 30 days that coincides with an academic school vacation with a specific beginning and ending date. A visit is not subject to an ICPC placement home study or supervision.  An out-of-state visit is at the discretion of the court and the case carrying CSW. Visits may not be renewed and may not extend into a placement without ICPC approval.

Out-of-State Group Home Placements

All out-of-state group homes receiving children from California must meet California group home licensing standards. A county Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) assessment and placement recommendation and the receiving state's approval are required for an out-of-state group home placement for a dependent of California Juvenile Courts. Courtesy supervision for youth of any age is not an option for group home placements , thus it is the Department's responsibility to provide face-to-face monthly visits.

To order the placement of a child to an out-of-state group home, the court must first receive both the receiving state’s approval and a written assessment and placement recommendation from the Multidisciplinary Team Liaison. An exception exists if both of the following occur:

  • The out-of-state group home is licensed or certified for the placement of children by an agency of the state in which the minor will be placed, and
  • The out-of-state group home is certified by CDSS to California licensing standards and is specifically authorized by the California Compact Administrator to receive public funds.

A current list of CDSS CCL certified residential out-of-state treatment centers or group homes is posted on the CCL website. If the recommendation is to place a child/youth in a facility not listed on the CDSS CCL website, the Department must contact the CDSS Out-of-State Certification Unit (OSCU) to initiate the certification process for that out-of-state group home.

  • CDSS Out-of-State Certification Unit (OSCU) 744 P Street, MS 8-3-54 Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 651-5380, (916) 657-1657 Fax

Concurrently with the certification process, DCFS must submit a complete ICPC 100 A package to the California Deputy Compact Administrator, Out-of-State Placement Policy Unit (OSPPU).

  • CDSS Out-of-State Placement Policy Unit (OSPPU) 744 P Street, MS 8-12-90 Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 651-8100, (916) 651-8144 Fax

A NMD may only reside in a group home after turning eighteen (18) if the placement allows the NMD to finish high school or is a short term transition period to a more family like or less restrictive setting. Otherwise, group home placements are prohibited once the NMD graduates high school or reaches the age of nineteen (19), whichever is sooner, unless the NMD has a documented medical condition that prevents participation in EFC and the group home is a short term transition to an appropriate system of care. If NMDs are placed in a group home, it is the Department's responsibility to provide face-to-face monthly visits until the NMD physically leaves the group home.

Tribal Agency's Petition to Transfer an ICPC Supervised Case

An ICPC out-of-state placement becomes ineligible for funding if the ICPC placement is terminated. To avoid disruption of the out-of-state placement and/or federal eligibility for foster care maintenance payments, the Department must notify the state in which the child is placed that a Tribal Agency has petitioned to transfer the child's case.

Financial Issues

Financial Responsibility

The sending state will retain financial responsibility for a child placed out-of-state until jurisdiction is terminated.

If the child is federally eligible for AFDC-FC, the case-carrying CSW will send a copy of the FC3 and a COBRA letter from the EW/TA to the caregiver who can then apply for Medicaid.

If the child is not federally eligible for AFDC-FC, the caregiver must apply for the CHDP equivalent. The CSW and the caregiver should work with the social worker providing courtesy supervision in the receiving state.

If a child is placed out-of-state, the relative or nonrelative extended family member who is receiving foster care payments from California must be licensed by the receiving state’s regulations.

Relative caregivers may receive Kin-Gap when children are living out-of-state.

Medi-Cal (Medicaid) Eligibility

Federally eligible AFDC-FC children who reside out-of-state receive Medicaid from the receiving state. Children eligible under “state only” foster care will continue to receive Medi-Cal (nationally, Medicaid) from the placing agency.

If a “state only” eligible child is placed through ICPC, the CSW will explore medical coverage options available in the receiving state for non-federally eligible AFDC-FC children prior to the placement of the child.

Educational Costs

There is no statutory authority in California for the payment of out-of-state costs for educating children placed through ICPC. Neither foster care payments nor child welfare service funds may be used to meet educational costs.

The States of Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Missouri, Ohio and Virginia require the sending agency to negotiate a contract with the local school district in the receiving state.  This contract ensures reimbursement for tuition and related educational costs for non-resident school-age children placed into the state.  The CSW must advise the court if there is the potential for a school-age child to be placed in one of these states.

Travel Arrangements for a Dependent Child

A court order is not required to authorize the funding to transport a child for out-of-state placement nor to return a child to the sending state due to placement disruption.  In the event of a placement disruption, the sending state has five (5) working days from the date notified by the receiving state's ICPC, to return a dependent child whose placement has been disrupted. The receiving state has sole discretion in determining whether or not to require the return of a child to the sending state.

Funding for travel arrangements is approved by the Regional Administrator.  In most cases, a child who will be placed out-of-state may travel alone, except in the following situations (not an exhaustive list):

  • The juvenile court minute order specifies that an adult accompany the child.
  • The child is less than eight years of age.
  • The child is severely handicapped or developmentally delayed.
  • The child is emotionally disturbed.
  • The child has a history of anti-social or runaway behavior.
  • The trip involves several children in one family, at least one of whom is less than five years of age and the oldest is less than 18 years of age.
  • Any situation in which the child(ren) is frightened, insecure or traumatized by recent experiences.

If the trip is by air, the child may be sent alone if the flight is non-stop, the airline will accept the responsibility, if it is confirmed that the child will be met upon arrival and the situation does not meet the criteria specified above.  The determination of who should accompany the child is a casework decision between the CSW and the SCSW, based on the needs of the child. 

Person to Accompany Dependent

Situation

Case-Carrying CSW/SCSW

  • Minute order specifies that a CSW/SCSW must accompany the dependent.
  • The welfare of the child will be best assured by the CSW or another DCFS employee.

Parent or Relative of Child

  • Only when the parent/relative does not pose a danger to the child and can adequately attend to the child’s needs; and
  • Court minute order specifies the parent/relative full name.
  • If not in court minute order, RA or Division Chief must put in writing that a background clearance was completed on parent/relative

ICPC Data Requirements

Each state must gather and document ICPC requests in CWS/CMS.  ICPC information is documented in the ICPC-A and ICPC-B of the Case Management Section.  Utilize the following CWS/CMS guides to document ICPC information:

Adoptive home study information is confidential.  In the case of an ICPC packet for adoption:

  • Document applicant information in the adoption applicant case file only.
  • Do not enter any identifying and/or personal information about the prospective adoptive applicant/parent(s) into CWS/CMS. 
PROCEDURE

Out-of-State Placement in a Family Home

Case-Carrying CSW Responsibilities

  1. Complete the following:
    1. Contact the prospective caregiver/facility to verify the interest in providing care for the child.
    2. If asking for a regular ICPC, complete DCFS 711.
    3. If asking for an expedited ICPC request, complete DCFS 712
    4. Obtain the signed minute order.
  2. Submit an ICPC packet to the Out-of-County Services (OCS) Unit to request an evaluation for the proposed out-of-state placement.  The packet must include the following:
    • A copy of the signed minute order initiating ICPC
    • FC 3, obtained from the Technical Assistant TA/EW via the DCFS 280
    • ICPC Financial/Medical Plan
    • DCFS 710 and supporting medical psychological and academic documents
    • Case plan
    • Most recent court report
    • Disposition report, if available
    • A copy of the child’s Social Security card or a hard-copy of the child’s Client Notebook ID page that contains the child’s Social Security Number
    • A copy of the DCFS 711 if a regular ICPC request or the DCFS 712 if an expedited ICPC request
      • For expedited requests, submit the required paperwork within three (3) business days of receipt of the court order.
  3. If the court bypasses the ICPC and orders a child to be placed in another state:
    1. Contact County Counsel to request a 7-day stay during the hearing.
    2. Document this contact with County Counsel in the Case Notes.
    3. Once the minute order is received with the ICPC finding, complete an ICPC packet containing:
      • FC3
      • ICPC Financial/Medical Plan
      • DCFS 711, for a regular ICPC
      • DCFS 712, for an expedited ICPC
  4. If the scheduled hearing is not within the next 30 days:
    1. Request the court hold a hearing sooner using a Set-On-Request.
    2. Provide notice to all parties of DCFS recommendation to change the child’s placement to out-of-state.
  5. Notify the OCS Unit of the placement date via email.
  6. Prior to the placement of the child:
    1. Send the child’s birth certificate and Social Security card to the caregiver.
    2. Explain to the caregiver that DCFS is responsible for payment but that the amount paid will be at the receiving state's foster care or welfare rate.
  7. Upon the receipt of the ICPC-100A, approving the out-of-state placement:
    1. File the ICPC-100A in the Placement Information folder.
    2. Complete Section A and B of the DCFS 304
      1. RA approval is required on the DCFS 304 when a CSW, parent, or relative accompanies the child.
    3. Arrange transportation for the child and attendant, if necessary, through the DCFS Travel Coordinator.
      1. Notify the appropriate person’s of the itinerary.
      2. For an unaccompanied child, notify the person meeting the child of the travel arrangements made.
      3. Document all contacts in the Contact Notebook.
  8. After the placement of a child:
    1. Confirm that child has been placed and notify the OCS Unit via email of the completed placement.
    2. Refer the case to the Revenue Enhancement Technical Assistant via the DCFS 280 for a Youakim determination.
    3. File one copy of the completed 100-B in the Service Folder. 
    4. Report all future changes in placement or legal status to the OCS Unit and re-file.
    5. Request quarterly reports from the OCS Unit on the progress of the child.
    6. Remain responsible for all aspects of the child’s case planning and implementation.
    7. Respond directly to placement disruptions.  Contact the receiving state's courtesy supervision worker immediately (and no later than 2 business days) after receiving notification from the OCS Unit of a placement disruption.
      1. Work with the receiving state to develop a plan to resolve the placement disruption.
      2. Notify the OCS Unit of the plan/agreement via email.
      3. If the plan is to return the child to Los Angeles County, notify the OCS Unit when the child has been returned.
    8. Maintain monthly telephone contact with the caregiver and child.
    9. Update the court on the progress of the case as appropriate. Include any report received from the other state.
    10. If jurisdiction is terminated, send a copy of the minute order to OCS Unit to close the case.

Out-of-County Services (OCS) Outgoing Unit Responsibilities

  1. Within 5 business days of the receipt of all necessary ICPC packet information:
    1. Make a secondary assignment to the ICPC unit.
    2. Complete the ICPC 100A.
    3. Send the complete packet to the receiving state.
    4. Utilize the ICPC 100A CWS/CMS Guide to document the ICPC request in CWS/CMS.
  2. For expedited requests, transmit the necessary ICPC packet information to the receiving state, within two (2) business days after receipt of the paperwork.
  3. Obtain the signed ICPC 100A and forward to the case-carrying CSW.

ICPC Coordinator (Outgoing Unit) Responsibilities

  1. After placement:
    1. Immediately notify the Case Carrying CSW and SCSW if:
      1. There is a disruption in placement.
      2. The plan is to return the child to Los Angeles.
    2. End the secondary assignment once the child has returned to Los Angeles.

Out-of-State Group Home Placement

Case-Carrying CSW Responsibilities

  1. If the identified out-of-state group home is not currently certified by the Out-of-State Certification Unit (OSCU), submit the following information to the OSCU:
    • The facility’s name, address, telephone number, and contact person;
    • The county placement worker’s name, address, fax and telephone numbers;
    • Whether the facility is profit or non-profit; and
    • If there is a specific child awaiting placement, the child’s name, date of birth, and juvenile court status.
  2. Inform the court of the proposed out-of-state group home placement.
  3. Document the following in the Initial Case Plan/Case Plan Update. Whenever possible, list all resources and family members by name, the service(s) provided, the duration of the service, and the extent of the family member’s involvement:
    • Alternatives to out-of-state group home placement that were considered, and the reason they were rejected.
    • Services and efforts provided to the child prior to placement in group home care or services to return the child home.
    • Services provided to prevent out-of-state group home placement.
      • Previous out-of-home placements, including dates of placements and the reasons for discharge.
      • How the previous placements failed to meet the child’s needs.
    • Provider’s assessment of the child’s needs & strengths.
    • Current location of the child, date placed, and anticipated length of stay.
    • Discussion of the parent's involvement in the out-of-state group home recommendation.
      • How the parent/caregiver was informed of the placement and all placement resources and how the parent reacted.
    • Description of the available out-of-state placement resource being sought:
      • How the new placement will meet the needs of the child.
    • CSW description of the child’s attitude toward the placement.
      • CSW decision and how the child was informed of the placement and placement resources.
  4. Complete an ICPC Financial/Medical Plan document. 
    • Note on the document if “User Supplied” information has already been included in the Initial Case Plan/Case Plan Update.
  5. Contact the DCFS Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) Liaison at (626) 569-6810 for consultation regarding the out-of-state group home placement and attend the scheduled MDT meeting.
  6. Complete Section I, II and III of the ICPC 100A and file a copy in the Placement Information folder.
  7. Complete and forward the following items to the CDSS-OSPP Unit:
    • Four (4) copies of the ICPC 100A, signed and dated.
    • A copy of the child’s Social Security card or a hard-copy of the child’s Client Notebook ID page, which must contain the child’s SSN.
    • Three copies of:
      • A signed court order specific to the youth being placed containing the required language as outlined in the Out-of-State Placement Policy Unit External Tool
      • Initial Case Plan/Case Plan Update
      • Transitional Independent Living Plan, if applicable
      • A summary of significant information on the child
      • The Multidisciplinary Team placement recommendation
      • ICPC Financial/Medical Plan
      • FC 3
      • Letter of acceptance from the residential facility
      • Placement Disruption Agreement
      • Facilities current certification, rate sheet and program statement
  8. Upon receipt of the approved ICPC 100A from the CDSS OSPPU, arrange transportation for the child and attendant, if necessary through the DCFS Travel Coordinator.
    1. Notify the appropriate person’s of the itinerary.
    2. For an unaccompanied child, notify the person meeting the child of the travel arrangements made.
    3. Document all contacts in the Contact Notebook.
  9. Upon placement of a child in an out-of-state group home:
    • File a completed copy of the ICPC 100B.
    • Forward three completed copies of the ICPC 100B to the CDSS OSPPU within three (3) business days of when the child is placed in the facility.
  10. If the child is to be replaced in another out-of state group home, follow the same procedures as an initial out-of-state group home placement.
  11. Ensure that each child has a monthly face-to-face visit with a social worker from the county where the child is placed.

Out-of-State Placement for a NMD

Case-Carrying CSW Responsibilities

  1. Discuss the conditions by which an out-of-state placement can be considered, with the NMD, as soon as the NMD expresses interest in residing out-of-state.
  2. Contact the ICPC unit to determine if the other state will accept a new ICPC request for a NMD or if a contract with a local child welfare agency can be established to provide ST services.
  3. After notification from the ICPC section that arrangements for services and supervision can be made, submit the required documentation to the ICPC section.
    • Required documents will vary on a case by case basis. Consult with the ICPC Section.
  4. If the receiving state is unwilling to provide continuing services and supervision is not available, discuss other placement options with the NMD.
  5. If the youth, chooses to remain out-of-state after reaching the age of eighteen (18), or the NMD opts to move out-of-state, without supervision and services in place and the CSW is unable to comply with provision of services, including monthly face-to-face contact, due to the receiving states' laws:
    • Inform the youth that without services in place, the NMD may not be eligible for Extended Foster Care Services or funding in that state.
    • Consult with County Counsel and the Service Bureau Administration.
    • Submit a walk-on report to inform the court that DCFS can no longer provide the required services (monthly visits, placement approvals or SILP/foster care payments) due to the reasons below:
      1. The receiving state is unwilling to extend or establish a new ICPC agreement.
      2. There is no available local child welfare agency to provide Supportive Transition (ST) Services.
      3. The CSW is restricted from practicing social work in the receiving state due to local state laws.

Out-of-County Services (OCS) Unit Responsibilities

  1. Contact the receiving state's ICPC unit to determine if the state is willing to provide supervision services to a NMD or continue an ICPC for a youth reaching the age of eighteen (18).

    ICPC Request Outcome

    Follow Up Actions

    Receiving state is willing to provide courtesy supervision
    • Follow out-of-state placement procedures.
    • If the youth is already placed out-of-state, request to extend the ICPC agreement.
    Receiving state is not willing to provide supervision and services pursuant to the case plan
    • Contact the respective state's ICPC liaison and request information on available local child welfare agencies that provide Supportive Transition services.
    Receiving state is not willing to provide supervision and services and there is no available local child welfare agency.
    • Inquire if the receiving state permits out-of-state Social Workers to practice social work in the state .
    If the above options are not available and the CSW is restricted from practicing social work in that state.

    Notify the CSW that:

    • Services are not available in the receiving state and that CSWs are not permitted to practice social work in that state.
    • They should consult with County Counsel and their respective Service Bureau Administration.
  2. Notify the case-carrying CSW of the outcome.
    • If proceeding with the out-of-state placement, follow out-of-state placement procedures.

A Home Study is Requested by Another State

Out-of-County Services (OCS) Incoming Unit SCSW’s Responsibilities

  1. Ensure that the following items have been sent by the sending state:
    • ICPC 100A, fully completed
    • ICPC 100B, if the child is already placed with an approved placement resource
    • ICPC Fact Sheet from the sending state
    • Current case plan and case history
    • Signed case manager's statement
    • Title IV-E Eligibility Verification (not needed for a parent home study request)
    • Financial/Medical Plan
    • Disposition court report
    • Most recent court report
    • Signed minute order, stating ICPC is to be initiated or a statement of the basis by which the sending agency has authority to place the child and documentation that supervision is ongoing
    • Supporting, medical, academic, psychological, etc. documents
    • If a child is in a residential treatment center, a letter from the therapist supporting placement in a less restrictive placement setting
    • For expedited requests, the following is also required:
      • Expedited Order of Compliance Court Order
      • Completed Case Manager’s Statement
      • ICPC 100A
  2. Request missing documents from states with incomplete requests. Explain that incomplete requests will be returned if the requested documents are not received within 3 business days.
  3. Once the completed packet is received, assign the case to an Out-of-County Services CSW .
  4. Once a placement and a parent/caregiver have been approved, a SOC 815 has been obtained, and a home study has been submitted:
    1. Review and sign the home study and forward to it ICPC ARA.
    2. Give a response to the sending state no later than 60 days from the original request.
    3. If unable to do so, submit a preliminary home study report to the sending state.
  5. Once the home study is signed:
    1. Approve or deny the ICPC 100A.
    2. Scan the home study documents in CWS/CMS.
    3. Mail the ICPC 100A and home study to the sending state ICPC office.

Out-of-County Services (OCS) Incoming Unit CSW’s Responsibilities

  1. Send an initial contact letter to the proposed placement explaining the requirements of the home study process.
    1. Criminal and child abuse clearances for all adults 18 and over living in the home.
    2. Assessment of the home by the ASFA Division to ensure their home meets licensing standards.
    3. Completion and submission of the following forms:
      1. Application for Child Placement
      2. Statement of Current Financial Resources
      3. DCFS/A 117 (Applicant’s Own Report on Health)
      4. DCFS 5603 (Criminal Record Statement)
    4. An in-person interview in the home with everyone residing in the home.
      1. If there are children in the home, a copy of their most recent school report is required.
    5. Verification of
      1. Income via paycheck stub or Income Tax Return
      2. Auto insurance
    6. Request to be contacted within a week to schedule an appointment for criminal clearances and to start the home study.
  2. For expedited placement requests, conduct a preliminary walk through of the home to ensure it meets the foster care licensing standards.
  3. Complete tasks a-f listed above.
  4. Submit an ASFA referral to the ASFA Division for a physical inspection and approval of the home.
  5. Once a SOC 815 approval has been provided, submit a completed home study to the OCS SCSW for approval with recommendation within 60 calendar days of the accepted date.
    • If a home study cannot be completed within 60 days, provide a preliminary report to the SCSW.

Placing a Child Through ICPC in Los Angeles County

Out-of-County Services (OCS) Incoming Unit Responsibilities

  1. Upon receipt of the ICPC 100B, confirming the placement of a child from out-of-state on Los Angeles County, forward the case to the regional office servicing the placement zip code to assign a CSW as secondary to the case.
  2. Provide the LA County assigned courtesy supervision worker with the sending state's primary caseworker's name and contact information.

Courtesy Supervision CSW’s Responsibilities

  1. Provide the same child welfare services that are provided to a DCFS child, based on the child’s eligibility.
  2. Within 30 days of being assigned the case, arrange for the child to be seen by the nearest Medical Hub for an Initial Medical Examination. 
    1. Provide copies of any medical records contained in the case file to Medical Hub personnel.
  3. Provide regular, ongoing supervision to the child by conducting monthly face-to-face contact.
    1. Beginning no later than 30 days from the date on which the child is placed, or 30 days from the date on which the receiving state is notified of the child’s placement.
    2. Majority of the visits must occur in the child’s home.
  4. Mail or scan and e-mail a written supervision report to Out of County Services (OSC) / ICPC at least once every 90 days. This report should include:
    1. The date and location of the visits.
    2. Any unmet needs of the child.
    3. Any placement disruptions or concerns.
  5. If applicable, request an annual ASFA re-assessment.
    1. Submit a copy of approved SOC 815 to the primary case worker in the sending state.
  6. Provide supervision until the ICPC is terminated.

A Dependent Child Will be Placed Out-of-State & An Adoption Home Study is Needed

Adoption & Permanency Resource Division (APRD) CSW Responsibilities

  1. Prior to making an adoption home study request:
    1. Contact the prospective caregiver to verify the interest in providing care for the child.
    2. If caregiver’s interest is verified, complete the DCFS 711A.
  2. Initiate an adoption home study by compiling an ICPC packet, which must include the following documents:
    • ICPC 100A
    • DCFS 710
    • Minute order terminating parental rights
    • Needs to be signed for Florida, Georgia, Nevada, South Carolina,Texas,
    • Most recent copy of the court report and minute order
    • Financial/Medical Plan
    • AD 512 or AD 512 NMD and attachments or the equivalent
    • Background information on prospective adoptive parent(s) and, if available, their relationship to the child.
    • Approved study if previously submitted by an agency in the receiving state.
    • Compliance letters, required for Missouri and Arkansas.
  3. Forward three copies of the ICPC packet to the ICPC APRD Coordinator.
  4. Receive the signed ICPC 100A from the ICPC APRD Coordinator indicating approval or denial of the adoption home study and proceed according to the home study status:

    Home Study Status

    CSW Next Steps

    Denied

    • Contact the LACO APRD ICPC coordinator to discuss.
    • Consult with the SCSW regarding the case plan.
    • Continue efforts to locate an adoptive family, if appropriate.

    Approved but the placement resource will not be used

    • Document the reason(s) why the placement would not be in the best interest of the child.
    • Contact the LACO APRD ICPC coordinator to discuss case closure prior to completing the ICPC 100B.
    • Complete the ICPC 100B and forward it to the ICPC Adoption Coordinator.

    Approved

    • Complete the adoptive placement and document the date of the placement in the Contact Notebook.
    • Contact the case-carrying CSW regarding the date of the placement.
    • Inform the LACO APRD ICPC coordinator of the adoptive placement date.
    • Complete the ICPC 100B:
    • File one copy in the case file and submit 3 copies to the ICPC Adoption Coordinator.
    • Attach copies of any legal and pertinent documents not previously submitted with the ICPC packet.
  5. After the adoptive placement:
    1. Receive supervisory reports from the receiving state’s public authority from the ICPC Adoption Coordinator.
    2. Monitor the placement through monthly phone contacts with the caregiver and the receiving state’s social worker.
  6. Determine in which state the family plans to finalize the adoption:
    1. Review the approved 100A for the finalization state. If the state has changed, contact the LACO APRD ICPC coordinator.
    2. If the family plans to finalize the adoption in Los Angeles County, follow DCFS policy guidelines for finalizing an adoption.
    3. If the family plans to finalize the adoption in the receiving state, provide the receiving state agency with a copy of the terminating minute order, the notarized consent and joinder, and any other documents requested.
  7. When the adoption is finalized, complete five copies of the ICPC 100B. 
    1. Attach one copy to the adoption decree.
    2. File one copy in the case file and submit three to the ICPC Adoption Coordinator.
    3. Provide the adoption decree to the APRD ICPC coordinator.

APRD ICPC Coordinator Responsibilities

  1. Receive the ICPC packet and review for completeness.
    1. If appropriate, sign the ICPC 100A and forward the packet to the receiving state’s ICPC Coordinator.
    2. If the packet is incomplete, contact the APRD CSW for correction.
  2. Receive the ICPC 100A indicating approval or disapproval of the completed adoption home study.
    1. Forward the ICPC 100A to the APRD CSW.
    2. Document both the date the ICPC 100A was received from the receiving state and the date the adoption home study was approved in CWS/CMS.
  3. After the child has been adoptively placed:
    1. Forward the ICPC 100B to the receiving state’s ICPC Coordinator and document the date sent in CWS/CMS.
    2. Send the ICPC file to the APRD CSW.
  4. After the adoption is finalized:
    1. Close the APRD ICPC case once the adoption decree is received from the APRD CSW.

Responding to and Completing an Adoption Home Study Request from a Sending State

APRD ICPC Coordinator Responsibilities

  1. Obtain the following items from the sending state:
    • ICPC 100A for each child
    • Cover letter indicating services requested
    • Regulation 2 form
    • Court order establishing jurisdiction or indication that care, custody and control has been given to the sending agency.
    • Court order terminating parental rights.
    • Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) enclosures, if applicable.
    • The sending state’s equivalent to the AD 512 and attachments.
    • Statement indicating how the child’s financial and medical needs will be met in the pre-adoptive placement.
    • Signed copies of written authorization for the prospective adoptive parent.
    • Background information on the prospective adoptive parents, if available, and their relationship to the child.
  2. Ensure that a placement would be consistent with California Adoption regulations:
    • Immediately contact the sending state if there is insufficient information to initiate the adoptive home study. 
      • Inform the requesting state that the final adoption home study will be made upon receipt of all needed documentation.
    • Resolve any issues before evaluating the appropriateness of a specific placement plan.
    • Search CWS/CMS to determine if the child is already in placement in Los Angeles County. 
      • If the child is currently placed in Los Angeles County, inform the Out-of-County Services (OCS) Unit when an ICPC adoptive home study request has been received.
  3. Forward the ICPC packet to the Assignment Desk for the adoption home study to be assigned to an Adoption CSW.
  4. Complete Section IV of the ICPC 100A, upon receipt of the completed adoption home study from the APRD CSW.
  5. The following dates should be documented in CWS/CMS:
    • Date the adoption home study was sent to the requesting state.
    • Date the completed ICPC 100A was received.
    • Date a status update is sent to the receiving state.
    • Date information or documents needed to complete an adoption home study were received.
  6. Send the following documents to the sending state’s ICPC Coordinator:
    • Request letter for the completed ICPC 100B
    • DCFS Interstate Compact Transmittal
    • Completed and signed ICPC 100A
    • Approved adoption home study
  7. Send a copy of the DCFS Interstate Compact Transmittal to the Out of County Services Unit.

APRD CSW Responsibilities

  1. Obtain the ICPC packet and contact the Case-Carrying CSW, if the child is already in placement:
    1. Consult on the current status of the child in placement.
    2. Conduct a joint home visit.
  2. Complete the adoption home study and submit to SCSW for approval.
    1. Contact the case-carrying CSW regarding the outcome of the adoption home study. 
  3. Inform the APRD ICPC Coordinator of which adoption home study elements have been completed to date and which elements are still needed within the 60-day time frame.
    1. Include a timeframe when it will be anticipated that the adoption home study will be completed. 
    2. Document in the Contact Notebook, and in AIS if applicable, the date a status update was e-mailed to the APRD ICPC Coordinator.
  4. Consult with the APRD ICPC Coordinator prior to closing the adoption home study and forward three copies of the completed adoption home study to the APRD ICPC Coordinator and to the SCSW for approval. File the original.

APRD SCSW Responsibilities

  1. Review all adoption home study forms connected with the Adoption Assessment. Discuss all concerns with the CSW.
    1. If the assessment is approved, sign the approval page.
    2. If not approved, return the assessment to the CSW for corrective action. 
  2. If there are serious concerns regarding the applicant’s suitability as an adoptive parent and his/her ability to provide a safe and stable home for a child:
    1. Discuss the concerns with an ARA and County Counsel.
    2. Contact the LACO APRD ICPC Coordinator to discuss the concerns. 
  3. Verify that all necessary information has been put into CWS/CMS in the Contact Notebook Section, and AIS if applicable.

Adoptive Family Plans to Move Out-of-State Prior to Finalization with Adoptively Placed Dependent Child

APRD CSW Responsibilities

  1. Prepare the ICPC packet request for an Interstate Adoptive Placement to include the following documents:
    • ICPC 100A
    • DCFS 710
    • Minute order terminating parental rights
    • Needs to be signed for Florida, Georgia, Nevada, South Carolina, and Texas
    • Most recent copy of the court report and minute order
    • Financial/Medical Plan
    • AD 512 and attachments or the equivalent
    • Background information on prospective adoptive parent(s) and, if available, their relationship to the child
    • Approved study if previously submitted by an agency in the receiving state
    • Compliance letters required for Missouri and Arkansas
    • Court Minute Order indicating that the prospective adoptive parent has permission to take the child out of California
    • Adoption home study
    • DCFS 4320, Adoption Assistance Program Agreement (AAP)
  2. Send three copies of the ICPC packet to the APRD ICPC Coordinator prior to the family relocating out-of-state.
  3. Submit a DCFS 280 to initiate Interstate Compact on Adoptions and Medical Assistance (ICAMA), if applicable.
  4. Request that the receiving state’s agency advise the family of the requirements necessary for completion of the adoption.
  5. Receive the ICPC 100A indicating the approval or disapproval of the placement.
  6. Receive supervisory reports from the receiving state’s public authority via the APRD ICPC Coordinator.
  7. Monitor the placement through monthly phone contacts with the caregiver, child, and receiving state’s social worker. 
  8. Determine whether the adoptive family plans to finalize their adoption in California or the state in which they reside.
  9. Determine in which state the family plans to finalize the adoption:
    1. If the family plans to finalize the adoption in Los Angeles County, follow established procedures.
    2. If the family plans to finalize the adoption in the receiving state, provide the receiving state agency with a copy of the terminating minute order, the notarized consent and joinder, and any other documents requested.
  10. Document the following in CWS/CMS:
    1. Date the adoption case was referred to completions.
    2. Date the adoption was finalized.
  11. When the adoption is finalized, submit a copy of the adoption decree to the APRD ICPC Coordinator. 
  12. Upon receipt of the completed ICPC 100B: 
    1. Attach one copy to the adoption decree.
    2. File one copy in the case file.

APRD ICPC Coordinator Responsibilities

  1. Receive the ICPC packet and review for completeness.
    1. If the packet is incomplete, contact the APRD CSW for correction.
    2. If appropriate, complete and sign the ICPC 100A and 100B and forward the packet to the receiving state’s ICPC Coordinator.
  2. After receipt of the ICPC 100A from the receiving state's ICPC Coordinator indicating approval or disapproval of the completed adoption home study.
    1. Forward the ICPC 100A to the APRD CSW.
  3. Document the following in CWS/CMS
    1. Date the ICPC 100A and ICPC 100B was sent to the receiving state.
    2. Date the ICPC 100A was received from the receiving state.
  4. Receive supervisory reports from the receiving state’s ICPC Coordinator and forward them to the APRD CSW.

Adoptive Out-of-State Placements into Los Angeles County

APRD ICPC Coordinator Responsibilities

  1. Receive the ICPC 100A and the ICPC 100B from the sending state
    1. The date of arrival to California must be noted on the ICPC 100B.
    2. Document the date the ICPC 100B was received from the sending state in CWS/CMS.
    3. Inform the assigned APRD CSW, SCSW and APRD ICPC Coordinator that a case carrying CSW assignment is needed to ensure compliance with monthly child safety visits.
  2. Forward supervisory reports received from the Adoption CSW to the sending state’s ICPC Coordinator.

APRD ICPC Coordinator SCSW Responsibilities

  1. Coordinate efforts with the APRD SCSW and Regional SCSW to ensure the timely assignment of a case carrying CSW to the case.

APRD CSW Responsibilities

  1. Verify that the sending state has approved the adoptive plan for the child.
  2. Initiate an Abbreviated Adoption Home Study.
    1. Follow procedures for Assessment of Applicants.
    2. Upon completion and approval of the DCFS Adoption Home Study, send three (3) copies to the LACO APRD ICPC Coordinator.
  3. Receive the ICPC 100B from the APRD ICPC Adoption Coordinator.
  4. Assist the assigned case-carrying CSW in monitoring the placement by either conducting face-to-face or phone contacts with the child and caregiver and phone contact with the sending state's social worker.
  5. Determine in which state the family plans to finalize the adoption:
    1. If the family plans to finalize the adoption in Los Angeles County.
      1. Document the date the adoption case was referred to completions in CWS/CMS Contact Notebook
    2. If the family plans to finalize the adoption in the sending state, provide the sending state agency any documents requested.
  6. Obtain necessary written information from Case-Carrying CSW to complete supervisory reports.
  7. Complete all supervisory reports, as indicated on the ICPC 100A, and forward to the sending state via the APRD ICPC Coordinator.

Birth Parent(s) Is Placing A Child Out-Of-State With A Family Who Wants To Independently Adopt

APRD ICPC Coordinator Responsibilities

  1. Receive the ICPC packet from the birth parent(s) or their attorney or outside agency representative.  The packet should consist of five copies of the following documents:
    • ICPC 100A
    • AD 100 signed by the birth parent(s)
    • Family history, including but not limited to:
      • Composition of the family
      • Marital status of the parents
      • Age, physical, religion, personality, and mental and physical disabilities
      • School and employment history
      • Reasons for placement in another state
      • Medical information on the child (can be submitted after the child’s birth)
    • AD 67 and AD 67A
    • Statement by the birth parent(s) that confirms that the plan for adoptive placement is based on personal knowledge of the prospective adoptive parent(s)
    • Statement of risk if the birth father is:
      • Identity unknown
      • Whereabouts unknown
    • Parental rights are not terminated
    • Statement by the birth parent(s) that indicates how the financial and medical needs of the child will be met while the child is in pre-adoptive placement
    • Signed copies of a written authorization for the adoptive parent(s) to secure medical treatment for the child pending adoption.
    • Child’s birth records, if required by the receiving state.
  2. Forward three ICPC packets to the receiving state’s ICPC Coordinator.

Independent Adoption Unit APRD CSW Responsibilities

  1. Confirm that a pre-placement interview was held with the prospective adoptive parent(s) by an adoption agency, organization or person designated by the receiving state's ICPC Coordinator.
  2. Receive the pre-placement adoption home study, and the ICPC 100A indicating approval or denial.
  3. Notify the birth parent(s) and/or their adoption attorney of the receiving state’s decision.
  4. After the placement request has been approved in writing and the placement made, receive the ICPC 100B and any legal and pertinent documents from either the birth parent(s) or their attorney.
  5. Upon receipt of the adoption decree, complete four copies of the ICPC 100B indicating the status change:
    1. Attach a copy of the adoption decree.
    2. Forward these forms to the ICPC Independent Adoption Coordinator.
  6. Upon receipt of the signed ICPC 100B, close the case.
  7. If the ICPC 100B is not received, follow up with a letter requesting the status of the adoption, with a 30-day deadline to respond.

A Family Who Is Independently Adopting Moves Out-Of-State Prior To Adoption Finalization

Independent Adoption Unit APRD CSW Responsibilities

  1. Send two copies of a summary of information on the child and family history to the receiving state’s ICPC Coordinator.
    1. Include a clear statement of the services requested, including the determination of residence and reports expected, in accordance with California Department of Social Services regulations.
  2. The information on the child and the family history must include:
    1. Composition of the family
    2. Marital status of the parents
    3. Age, physical appearance, religion, personality and mental and physical disabilities
    4. School and employment history
    5. Reason for placement in other state
    6. Medical information on child.
  3. Receive the following from the birth parent(s) or their adoption attorney:
    • Four copies of the ICPC 100B
    • Three copies of all legal and other pertinent documents not previously submitted.
  4. Forward the documents listed above to the receiving state’s ICPC Coordinator.
  5. Sign and forward the ICPC 100A to the receiving state’s public authority.
  6. Receive the ICPC 100A from the receiving state indicating approval or disapproval.
  7. If the request for service is refused or unreasonably delayed, request the out-of-state agency to provide the names of qualified agencies or practitioners to which the adoption family may be referred for services.
  8. Request the out-of-state agency to determine:
    1. If the family intends to meet the requirement for a court appearance in California needed for completion of the adoption, unless there has been a prior appearance and the adoptive family has been excused from returning
    2. If the family intends to complete the adoption in the state where (s)he resides.

ICPC Request For A Child To Be Independently Adopted In Los Angeles County

APRD ICPC Coordinator Responsibilities

  1. Upon receipt of the ICPC packet, check for the following documents:
    1. ICPC 100A for each child
    2. Copies of a family history which includes: 
      1. Composition of the family
      2. Marital status of the parents
      3. Age, physical appearance, religion, personality and physical disabilities
      4. School and employment history
      5. Reason for placement in another state
      6. Medical information on the child, which can be submitted after the child’s birth
    3. Birth parent statement that confirms that plan for adoptive placement
    4. Two copies of statement by the birth parent(s) that indicates how the financial and medical needs of the child will be met while the child is in a pre-adoptive placement
    5. Two signed copies of the written authorization for the adoptive parent(s) to secure medical treatment for the child pending adoption
  2. Upon receipt of the above-listed documents, determine which services are requested, and:
    1. If the sending state requires a complete adoption home study to be completed prior to placement, or post-placement reports, refer the family to a private adoption agency.
    2. If the sending state requires only a pre-placement assessment, assign the assessment to a CSW.
  3. Receive the DCFS/A I-60.
    1. If appropriate, sign the form.
    2. Return to APRD CSW for correction.
  4. Approve or deny the request for placement on ICPC 100A and return it to the sending agency and the sending state’s appropriate public authority.

Independent Adoption Unit APRD CSW Responsibilities

  1. Conduct the pre-placement assessment and complete the DCFS/A I-60.
  2. Submit the assessment to the SCSW for review.
  3. Notify the prospective adoptive parents of the decision.
  4. If approved, request the birth parents to complete and send through the appropriate public authority in the sending state:
    1. Four copies of the ICPC 100B
    2. Three copies of all legal and pertinent documents not previously submitted.
  5. Finalize the independent adoption.
APPROVALS

ICPC Liaison (SCSW) Approval

  • To approve or deny ICPC placement home study requests
  • To approve or deny the ICPC 100A
  • To approve ICPC Supervision

APRD ICPC Coordinator Approval

  • To approve or deny adoption placement requests

CDSS Out-of-State Placement Policy Unit (OSPP)

  • To approve and certify out-of-state group home requests

APRD SCSW

  • Adoption home study

Regional Administrator

  • DCFS 304, when a CSW, parent, or relative accompanies the child.
HELPFUL LINKS

Attachments

ICPC Group Home Placement Request, External Tool

Forms

CWS/CMS

ICPC 100A, Interstate Compact Report on the Placement of Children Request

ICPC 100B, Interstate Compact Report on Child’s Placement Status

LA Kids

AD 512, Psychological and Medical History of Child

AD 512 NMD, Psychological and Medical History of Nonminor Dependent

DCFS/A 117, Applicant’s Own Report on Health

DCFS 280, Technical Assistance Action Request

DCFS 304, Case Related Travel Request

DCFS 710, ICPC Fact Sheet

DCFS 711, ICPC Statement of Case Manager/Potential Placement/Party Under ICPC Regulation 2 (Regular ICPC)

DCFS 711A, Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children Statement of Case Manager/Adoptive Placement Resource Under ICPC Regulation 2 (Adoptions)

DCFS 712, Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children Statement of Case Manager/Potential Placement/Party Under ICPC Regulation 7 (Expedited Request)

FC 3, Determination of Federal Eligibility – FC Eligibility

REFERENCED POLICY GUIDES

0100-570.11, Runaways and Returning Runaway Youth Who Are From Other Jurisdictions

0200-506.10, Adoption Assessment

0200-506.20, Grievance Procedures for Denial of Adoption Requests or Withdrawal of Approved Applicant Assessments

0200-507.15, Assessing a Petitioner for an Independent Adoption

0200-507.30, Court Reports for an Independent Adoption

0200-509.35, Adoptive Placements

0200-509.36, Supervision of Adoptive Placements

0200-513.01, Finalizing an Adoption

0300-503.94, Set-On/Walk-On Procedures

0400-503.10, Contact Requirements and Exceptions

0400-504.00, Family Visitation

Management Directive 14-02, Travel Policy, Travel Advance and Expense Reimbursement

STATUTES AND OTHER MANDATES

All County Information Notice (ACIN) 1-95-06 – (January 8, 2007) - Summarizes steps for opening a case for the interstate placement of children entering or exiting California.

ACIN 1-48-15 – (September 3, 2015) - Serves as a reminder to county child welfare and probation departments of the federal requirements for caseworker visits with children in foster care. Children under the jurisdiction of the court must be visited each month that the child is in foster care. The majority of the visits must occur in the child's home.

All County Letter (ACL) 08-21 – (May 27, 2008) - Details the process, procedures, and requirements for certification of out-of-state group homes. Such certification is required as part of the initial and continuing inspections for state group homes providing care to dependents and wards of California’s Juvenile Courts.

ACL 08-26 – (May 28, 2008) - Summarizes the requirements and new procedures counties must follow for compliance with the provisions of the Safe and Timely Interstate Placement of Foster Children Act of 2006 and Senate Bill 703.

ACL 14-06 - (February 05, 2014)- Summarizes the amended ICPC Regulation 4, regarding out of state placements in residential facilities.

ACL 14-15 - (February 14, 2014) - Outlines the Federal Requirements for the transfer of Indian children to a Tribal Title IV-E Agency or an Indian Tribe with a Title IV-E agreement.

ACL 14-33 - (July 03, 2014) - Provides instructions on policies and procedures when placing NMDs out-of-state who are receiving EFC services or who receive a CalWorks payment.

Association of Administrators of the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (AAICPC) Regulation No. 7 – Outlines the criteria for the expedited placement of a child out-of-state.

California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Div 2, Adoptions Manual, Subchapter 8 thru 9, Section 35400 – 35409 – Summarizes the procedures necessary for Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC).

California Department of Social Services (CDSS) Manual of Policies and Procedures (MPP) Division 31-510 –  Summaries the procedures and standards that member states must follow for the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children.

California Rules of the Court (CRC), Rule 5.616 - The rule reviews the provisions of ICPC when placing children, dependents of the court, in other states. The rule applies to expedited placements.

Family Code (FAM) Section 7900 et Seq., – Outlines the provisions and requirements that all member states must follow relating to the ICPC.

FAM Section 7911.1(c) – Requires the state to perform initial and continuing inspections of out-of-state group homes to ensure that such homes meets all California licensure standards.

Safe and Timely Interstate Placement of Foster Children Act of 2006 – Requires that states complete, report, and return the results of a home study within 60 days from the date the request is received.

Social Security Act (SSA) Section 438(a) (1)(E) – Requires courts to improve their effectiveness in expediting interstate placements by authorizing sharing of information and testimony from agencies and parties in other states without requiring interstate travel.

SSA Section 471 (a) (15) – Requires a state to consider interstate placements in permanency planning decisions when appropriate.

SSA Section 471(a) (25) – Requires that a state have in effect, a procedure for the orderly and timely interstate placement of children.

SSA Section 475(5) (A)(ii) – Increases the frequency of required caseworker visits to every 6 months for children in out-or state foster care placements and allows for a private agency under contract with either state to perform those visits.

Welfare and Institutions Code (WIC) Section 16170-16177– The Interstate Compact on Adoptions and Medical Assistance (ICAMA) ensures the delivery of Medicaid and other post adoption services to Adoption Assistance Program (AAP)-eligible children when their families move across state lines.