R512-31-6. Foster Parent Conflict Resolution Procedure

  (1) The Foster Parent Conflict Resolution Procedure consists of the following:

  (a) A foster parent must first attempt to resolve a conflict with Child and Family Services informally through discussion with the caseworker or supervisor. If a conflict is not resolved through informal discussion, an agency conference may be requested by the foster parent.

  (b) The foster parent shall have the opportunity to provide written and oral comments to Child and Family Services in an agency conference chaired by the region director or designee. The agency conference shall include the foster parent, foster care caseworker, and the caseworker's supervisor, and may include other individuals at the request of the foster parent or caseworker.

  (c) If the foster parent is not satisfied with the results of the agency conference with Child and Family Services, the foster parent shall have the opportunity to request a review, to be held before removal of the child, by a third party neutral fact finder. If the child has been placed with the foster parents for a period of at least two years, the foster parent may request a review to be held before removal of the child, by:

  (i) The juvenile court judge currently assigned to the child's case, or

  (ii) If the juvenile court judge currently assigned to the child's case is not available, another juvenile court judge.

  (d) If the foster parent is not satisfied with the results of the agency conference with Child and Family Services and a foster child is to be removed from the foster home, an administrative hearing shall be held through the Department of Human Services, Office of Administrative Hearings. The Office of Administrative Hearings shall serve as the neutral fact finder required by Section 62A-4a-206.

  (e) If a child is removed from a foster home based upon the child's statement alone, an agency conference will be held within five business days of a request by the foster parent. If the foster parent is not satisfied with the results of the agency conference, Child and Family Services shall request an expedited administrative hearing or expedited juvenile court hearing. No formal action may be taken with regard to that foster parent's license until after all conflict resolution procedures have been completed.