Document iconRewriting the Rules of Foster Care

The Department of Children and Families (DCF) has sought legislative approval to revise Administrative Rule DCF 56 Foster Home Care for Children. These revisions are aimed at:

  • Creating easily understood, easier-to-uphold licensing standards;
  • and to provide more local licensing agency control in determining the appropriate licensing of a foster parent. 

The work to make the revisions will continue throughout 2024, with major contributions by a multi-disciplinary team of community partners across the state.

Additionally, the Children’s Bureau released a final rule on September 28, 2023 that allows for states to establish licensing requirements for relatives and like-kin caregivers separate to that of caregivers who do not have a previous relationship with a foster child. The rule also requires rate parity for all licensed foster homes. This is a big win for kids and families in Wisconsin! The Bureau of Permanence and Out-of-Home Care will continue working with community partners to develop revisions to DCF 56 that will alleviate licensing pain points for relatives and ensure that children can most often reside with people who already know and love them. 

Reference Information for 45 CFR 1355 and 45 CFR 1356 can be found in the Federal Register.