# COMAR Title 07 — Department of Human Services

## Subtitle 02 — Social Services Administration

### Chapter 07 — Child Protective Services — Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect

#### Regulation .16 Closure of Alternative Response Assessment.

*COMAR 07.02.07.16*

A. The local department shall complete its alternative response assessment using assessment tools and forms required by the Administration.

B. An assessment is complete when the local department:

  (1) Determines the names, ages, and condition of the children in the household or in the care or custody of the alleged maltreator;

  (2) Assesses the safety of the children in the household or in the care or custody of the alleged maltreator;

  (3) Evaluates the risk of future child abuse or neglect; and

  (4) Determines necessary services.

C. The local department shall:

  (1) Complete an alternative response assessment within 60 days after receipt of the report; and

  (2) Within 10 days of completing the alternative response assessment, provide a written report to the adult family members who participated in the alternative response identifying accomplishments achieved and services necessary to address:

    (a) The safety of the alleged victim or other children in the household; and

    (b) The risk of subsequent child abuse or neglect; and

  (3) Consistent with the assessment and safety or service plans:

    (a) Provide appropriate services in the best interests of the children;

    (b) Link the family or alleged victim for additional services; and

    (c) As necessary for the safety of the alleged victim or other children in the household, establish a plan to monitor adherence to a safety plan and the delivery and completion of appropriate services.