AB 1846: Dependency: placement of child with relative.

This bill amends the welfare and institutions code to improve the placement of juvenile dependents with relatives. The court must state the reasons for denying or delaying placement with a considered relative on the record. After the dispositional hearing, county social workers must assess any relative who requests placement and has not been previously assessed or found unsuitable. If reunification services have been terminated, the court and social worker must consider additional factors when determining if placement with the relative is appropriate. This bill increases the duties of county social workers and imposes a state-mandated local program.