Interstate compact—a resource for meeting the needs of children: Implications for service delivery and policy development

Abstract

Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children is the office responsible for arranging out-of-state placements of children with relatives, in facilities, or adoptive arrangements. However, little is known about its significance in child welfare. Quantitative and qualitative analysis is conducted to explore this office's critical role in child welfare. Factors examined are: numbers and demographics of children placed through Interstate Compact, reasons for child placement, types of placements, length of time for placements, and jurisdictional transfers of cases between states. The relationship between the national and state offices of Interstate Compact is discussed as well as implications for permanency planning issues for children.