<?xml version='1.0' encoding='utf-8'?>
<regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" citation="COMAR 07.02.07.16" title_num="07" subtitle_num="02" chapter_num="07" heading="Closure of Alternative Response Assessment.">
  <paragraph num="A.">
    <text>The local department shall complete its alternative response assessment using assessment tools and forms required by the Administration.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="B.">
    <text>An assessment is complete when the local department:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Determines the names, ages, and condition of the children in the household or in the care or custody of the alleged maltreator;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Assesses the safety of the children in the household or in the care or custody of the alleged maltreator;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>Evaluates the risk of future child abuse or neglect; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(4)">
      <text>Determines necessary services.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="C.">
    <text>The local department shall:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Complete an alternative response assessment within 60 days after receipt of the report; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>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:</text>
      <paragraph num="(a)">
        <text>The safety of the alleged victim or other children in the household; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(b)">
        <text>The risk of subsequent child abuse or neglect; and</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>Consistent with the assessment and safety or service plans:</text>
      <paragraph num="(a)">
        <text>Provide appropriate services in the best interests of the children;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(b)">
        <text>Link the family or alleged victim for additional services; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(c)">
        <text>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.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
</regulation>