R512-40-4. Requirements for Persons Applying for Adoptive Placement of a Child in the Custody of Child and Family Services

(1) Legally married couples and single adults, including relatives of a child and employees of Child and Family Services, may apply to adopt a child in state's custody based on their ability to provide a permanent family for the child. Only relatives to the child may be cohabiting under Section 81-13-203. Adoptive applicants shall: (a) apply in the region where they live; (b) complete the adoption training program approved by Child and Family Services, which may be adapted for relatives based on the child's needs; (c) be assessed and approved as an adoptive parent by Child and Family Services following completion of a home study pursuant to Section R512-40-5; (d) obtain a foster care license issued by the Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Licensing and Background Checks, or meet the same standards required to be licensed in Section R501-12, or receive a written waiver from Child and Family Services for a specific standard; and (e) receive a determination by Child and Family Services that no conflict of interest exists in the adoption process. (2) Relatives are not required to become licensed to be considered for adoption and will have an assessment completed by Child and Family Services.