Information memorandum summarizing the final rule released on 9/28/23 that allows states to adopt separate licensing standards for relative or kinship foster family homes.

Information memorandum describing notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) about ensuring safe and appropriate placements for LGBTQ+ youth in foster care. The full NPRM includes language stating: "We note that a title IV–E agency shall consider giving preference to an adult relative over a non-related caregiver when determining an out-of-home placement for a child, provided that the relative caregiver meets all relevant state or tribal child protection standards (section 471(a)(19) of the Act). HHS invites public comment on how agencies can best comply with the requirements of this proposed rule and prioritize placements with kinship caregivers. In particular, HHS invites public comment on what resources agencies may need from HHS to support kinship caregivers in caring for an LGBTQI+ child.” The rule was finalized on April 30, 2024, and will go into effect on July 1, 2024.

Information Memorandum (IM) from the Administration for Children and Families, Children's Bureau  summarizing the Family First Prevention Services Act.  

To notify states that the Children’s Bureau is disbursing funding provided under section 437(g) of the Act as an increase in the title IV-B subpart 2 Promoting Safe and Stable Families Program allocation to support an electronic interstate case-processing system to expedite interstate placements of children in foster, guardianship or adoptive homes, and to provide an example of such an electronic interstate system.

On February 4, 2019, the Children’s Bureau released final National Model Family Foster Home Licensing Standards (National Model), as required by the Family First Prevention Services Act.  The Children’s Bureau used the NARA Model Family Foster Home Licensing Standards (NARA Model) as the “main source” for its proposed National Model, and then accorded it “considerable deference” in deciding whether to modify the proposed National Model.  See Generations United's FAQ on the National Model, the NARA Model and the Family First Reporting Requirements (2019).