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

Youths' Religious Rights
Citation: Admin. Code § 65C-46.008; Youth in Foster Care: Rights and Expectations

In regulation: A child and the child's parent or legal guardian (unless parental rights have been terminated) have the right to determine the child's religious affiliation. The child-caring agency shall arrange for an alternative activity for children not attending religious services.

From Youth in Foster Care: Rights and Expectations: All children in foster care between the ages of 14 and 17 years old who are placed with a caregiver or group home have the following rights:

• To not be discriminated against or denied placement or services based on their race, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or any other characteristic
• To have a case plan that respects their race and culture, religion, and other identities

Agency Responsibilities 
Citation: Youth in Foster Care: Rights and Expectations

The Department of Children and Families is committed to making sure that everyone responsible for providing care and services to children in foster care will meet the expectations listed in this brochure.

Addressing Grievances
Citation: Youth in Foster Care: Rights and Expectations

A youth in foster care has the right to be able to contact their case manager or the Florida Children's Ombudsman regarding violations of rights, to speak to the ombudsman confidentially, and to be free from threats or punishment for making complaints.

The children's ombudsman can do the following:

• Listen and be a voice for children and youth 
• Take complaints about placement, care, or services from youth without youth fearing retribution for the complaints
• Serve as a resource to identify and explain relevant policies or procedures 

The children's ombudsman cannot do the following:

• Respond to emergencies or investigate allegations of abuse or neglect 
• Investigate, challenge, or overturn court-ordered decisions or provide legal advice 
• Investigate complaints about a guardian ad litem