2009 Rhode Island Code
Title 14 - Delinquent and Dependent Children
CHAPTER 14-1 - Proceedings in Family Court
§ 14-1-11.1 - Commitment of voluntary placements.

SECTION 14-1-11.1

   § 14-1-11.1  Commitment of voluntary placements. – (a) The department of children, youth, and families shall petition the family court and request the care, custody, and control of any child who is voluntarily placed with the department for the purpose of foster care by a parent or other person previously having custody and who remains in foster care for a period of twelve (12) months. However, there shall be no requirement for the department to seek custody of any child with an emotional, behavioral or mental disorder or developmental or physical disability if the child is voluntarily placed with the department by a parent or guardian of the child for the purpose of accessing an out-of-home program for the child in a program which provides services for children with disabilities, including, but not limited to, residential treatment programs, residential counseling centers, and therapeutic foster care programs.

   (b) In a hearing on a petition alleging that a child is dependent, competent and creditable evidence that the child has remained in foster care for a period of twelve (12) months shall constitute prima facie evidence sufficient to support the finding by the court that the child is "dependent" in accordance with § 14-1-3.