If the prospective adoptive parent of a child is a foster parent with whom the child has lived for a minimum of six months or a relative caregiver who has had an ongoing and significant relationship with the child, an assessment or home study of the prospective adoptive parent may, at the discretion of the department or a licensed adoption agency, or unless the court with jurisdiction over the child orders otherwise, require only the following: (a) A criminal records check of the relative caregiver or foster parent, as provided in subdivision (a) of Section 8712. (b) A determination that the relative caregiver or foster parent has sufficient financial stability to support the child and ensure that any adoption assistance program payment or other government assistance to which the child is entitled is used exclusively to meet the child`s needs. In making this determination, the experience of the relative caregiver or foster parent only while the child was in his or her care shall be considered. For purposes of this section, the relative caregiver or foster parent shall be required to provide verification of employment records or income or both. (c) A determination that the relative caregiver or foster parent has not abused or neglected the child while the child has been in his or her care and has fostered the healthy growth and development of the child. This determination shall include a review of the disciplinary practices of the relative caregiver or foster parent to ensure that the practices are age appropriate and do not physically or emotionally endanger the child. (d) A determination that there is not a likelihood that the relative caregiver or foster parent will abuse or neglect the child in the future, that the caregiver or foster parent can protect the child, ensure necessary care and supervision, and foster the child`s healthy growth and development. (e) A determination that the relative caregiver or foster parent can address racial and cultural issues that may affect the child`s well-being. (f) An interview with the relative caregiver or foster parent, an interview with each individual residing in the home and an interview with the child to be adopted.
