REFERENCE TITLE: DCS; discharge from care; housing

State of Arizona

Senate

Fifty-sixth Legislature

Second Regular Session

2024

SB 1313

Introduced by

Senators Miranda: Alston, Bravo, Diaz, Fernandez, Hatathlie, Hernandez;  Representatives Crews, Terech

An Act

amending title 8, chapter 4, article 4, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding section 8-530.06; relating to child welfare and placement.

(TEXT OF BILL BEGINS ON NEXT PAGE)

Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of Arizona:

Section 1. Title 8, chapter 4, article 4, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended by adding section 8-530.06, to read:

START_STATUTE8-530.06. Leaving care of the department; safe and stable housing; report

A. On or before DECEMBER 31, 2025, the department shall develop and implement polices and procedures to ensure that every child who leaves the care of the department is discharged to safe and secure housing.  The policies and procedures must specify the actions the department will take to ensure safe and secure housing for a child who leaves the care of the department.

B. On or BEFORE December 31, 2025, the department shall submit a report that outlines the adopted policies and procedures to the governor, the president of the senate and the speaker of the house of representatives and shall provide a copy of this report to the secretary of state. END_STATUTE

Sec. 2. Legislative intent

The Legislature intends that all youth have the right to safe and secure housing after leaving the care of the department of child safety.