relative to the department of health and human services, division for children, youth and families.

SB 498 expands the types of care settings available for minors involved in the juvenile justice system or those in need of services within New Hampshire. The bill allows courts to place these children with fictive kin - individuals who are not biological relatives but have a close bond - as well as in various certified facilities like group homes and psychiatric treatment programs. Additionally, the legislation updates the schedule for when law enforcement facilities must share confidential detention logs with the Department of Health and Human Services, changing the reporting dates to October 1 and April 1 starting in 2024. These changes apply to both delinquent children and children in need of services, aiming to broaden placement options and improve oversight of juvenile detention records.