The department is not required to file a termination petition if the department has chosen to have the child cared for by a relative or the department has documented to the court a compelling reason for determining that filing such a petition would not be in the best interests of the child.

SUMMARY

This bill amends the laws governing cases in which a court orders the removal of a child from a home. It also amends the laws governing court review of cases in which a court has made a jeopardy order and the laws governing when the Department of Human Services must file a termination petition.