Foster Care Licensing Policy – Lummi Nation
The Lummi Nation Child Welfare Foster Care Licensing Policy establishes a framework to protect and promote the wellbeing of Lummi children through a culturally grounded foster care licensing system. The policy emphasizes child safety, family preservation, and reunification, operating under tribal sovereignty and applicable federal laws. It outlines the licensing process, including application, assessment, background checks, home studies, and required training for foster parents. Licenses are valid for up to three years, with ongoing renewal and monitoring. The policy sets comprehensive standards for home safety, capacity, sleeping arrangements, health, fire, water, weapon, and pet safety, and enforces non-discrimination. Foster parents must maintain records, report significant incidents, and adhere to strict guidelines on discipline, substance use, and supervision. Provisions exist for emergency placements and for the denial, suspension, or revocation of licenses to ensure child safety. The policy also highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage and requires ongoing training for foster families.