The 1996 Personal Responsiblity and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) requires states to “consider giving preference to an adult relative over a non-related caregiver when determining a placement for a child, provided that the relative caregive meets all relevant State child protection standards.”  The 1997 Adoption and Safe Families Act (ASFA) acknowledges the unique position of kinship placement in the foster care system, indicating that “a fit and willing relative” could provide a “planned permanent living arrangement.”

This study analyzes the impacts of ASFA final rule on kinship care and discusses the challenge of creating kinship care policies that both ensure chld safety and address the uniques needs of kin.

Download: State Policies–Kinship Care–Urban Inst