OAR 413-070-0380: Refugee Child Welfare Advisory Committee

(1) As required by ORS 418.941, the Department will establish an advisory committee known as the Refugee Child Welfare Advisory Committee (RCWAC). The RCWAC will perform the following tasks: (a) Advise the Department on its implementation of ORS 418.925 to 418.945; (b) Advise the Department in the identification, development, and certification of foster parents who meet requirements of ORS 418.925 to 418.945 for placement of refugee children, placing a special emphasis on locating homes maintained by refugees; and (c) Advise the Department in developing training programs to insure the availability of culturally sensitive social work. (2) Each person appointed to the RCWAC is subject to all confidentiality requirements and penalties as are employees of the Department. (3) In addition to records of the juvenile court under ORS 418.941(3), members of the RCWAC have access to Department records that: (a) Are pertinent to the care of an individual refugee child who is receiving care from the Department under the provisions of OAR 413-070-0300 to 413-070-0380; and (b) The Department is authorized by law to provide to the RCWAC. (4) The Department will work jointly with the RCWAC in the development and implementation of written bylaws or procedures that will specify all local procedures, duties, and tasks necessary for the RCWAC to fulfill the purpose described above. (5) A maximum of 14 members will be appointed for a two-year renewable term and will serve at the pleasure of the Assistant Director for the Children, Adults and Families Division of the Department. (6) The RCWAC will meet at least once every three months. Special meetings may be held to carry out required tasks. (7) Members of the RCWAC receive no compensation for their services. Members of the RCWAC other than members in full-time public service may be reimbursed by the Department for their travel and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties according to rates and procedures established by state management service cost reimbursement policy.