§ 9-240. Step-down aftercare

   (a) Definitions. --

   (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

   (2) "Step-down aftercare" means:

      (i) a network of programs that provide education and rehabilitation; and

      (ii) services and treatment to ease the transition of children from the custody of the Department to their homes and communities.

   (3) "Step-down aftercare plan" means an individualized plan for each child in step-down aftercare that proposes specific assistance, guidance, treatment, services, and supervision that:

      (i) prepares the child for reentry into the specific community to which the child will return;

      (ii) ensures the delivery of prescribed services to the child in the community; and

      (iii) monitors conduct in the community to ensure public safety.

(b) Services required. --

   (1) A child discharged from a committed residential placement shall receive step-down aftercare for the period that the Department determines.

   (2) A child in step-down aftercare shall receive:

      (i) a step-down aftercare plan;

      (ii) supervision by step-down aftercare staff in accordance with the step-down aftercare plan;

      (iii) educational services; and

      (iv) any other services necessary to implement the step-down aftercare plan.

(c) Duties of staff. -- The step-down aftercare staff shall:

   (1) prepare a step-down aftercare plan for each child assigned to the step-down aftercare program and file the plan with the Department;

   (2) keep regular records concerning the progress of each child;

   (3) file with the Department a monthly progress report on each child; and

   (4) file with the Department an annual report on the outcome of step-down aftercare plans for the children in the step-down aftercare program, that includes to the extent possible:

      (i) information on the number of children who:

         1. are rearrested;

         2. are rearrested and charged with serious or violent offenses;

         3. are rearrested and waived to the adult system;

         4. are re-referred to the Department;

         5. are readjudicated and recommitted;

         6. graduate from high school or successfully complete a high school equivalency examination; and

         7. are employed; and

      (ii) other relevant information.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 83C, § 2-127.1; 2007, ch. 3, § 2.