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TO: COUNTY DIRECTORS OF SOCIAL SERVICES
DATE: November 29, 2001
EFFECTIVE DATE: January 1, 2002
ATTENTION: Children's Services Social Workers
Children's Services Supervisors
This letter provides you with the newly revised Voluntary Placement Agreement (VPA) form (DSS 1789). The revised form reflects the shortened time period within which the initial review hearing is to be held (from 180 days from the time of placement to 90 days). The form also reflects the shortened time period that a juvenile may remain in foster care under a Voluntary Placement Agreement without filing a petition (from 180 days to 6 months). The revised form becomes effective January 1, 2002.
For children who come into care on or after January 1, 2002 through a Voluntary Placement Agreement, initial court reviews shall be held within 90 days of the placement. For children who are currently in care on a Voluntary Placement Agreement or who will come into care under a Voluntary Placement Agreement prior to January 1, 2002, the current statute regarding an initial court review within 180 days still applies.
The revised Voluntary Placement Agreement form (DSS 1789) also includes language specifying that a VPA that is signed by the parent or legal guardian may be faxed to the agency and the signature is as valid as if the parent or legal guardian had signed the VPA in person. Note: Permission for a Voluntary Placement Agreement made by telephone is not valid and the agency may not place a child in care with this type of permission.
If you have questions regarding this letter, please contact the Policy and Initiatives Team at (919) 733-4622.
Sincerely,
Charles C. Harris, Chief
Children's Services Section
Attachment
cc: Pheon Beal
Sherry Bradsher
Children's Services Team Leaders
Children's Programs Representatives
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For questions or clarification on any of the policy contained in these manuals, please contact your local county office. |
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