Religious Rights of Youth in Out-of-Home Care - Alabama

Date: January 2024

Youths' Religious Rights
Citation: DHR Out-of-Home Care Policy § 6

In policyBirth parents have the right to determine the religious affiliation of their children.

Agency Responsibilities 
Citation: DHR Out-of-Home Care Policy § 7

IIn policy: The county Department of Human Resources shall consider the religious affiliation of the children and their parents when children are placed in foster care. The foster care providers shall be informed about the children's involvement in prior and present religious services and activities. When children are placed near their home, they may be able to continue participating in the same services and activities with the assistance and supervision of a family friend or neighbor. Children may attend the services and activities of the foster parents or other religious denominations with agreement from their parents, who retain the residual right to determine religious affiliation.

Addressing Grievances

This issue is not addressed in the laws and policies reviewed.