Indian Child Welfare Act
From the outset of any Department of Child Safety (DCS) investigation, we are compelled by law to inquire if a child (or children) is of American Indian heritage or ancestry.
DCS makes diligent efforts to work with families and tribes to identify children who are subject to the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).
DCS provides services that ensure the health and safety of Indian children while protecting their cultural heritage to the greatest extent possible.
DCS also contacts a child's or parent’s tribe as soon as possible to determine jurisdiction.
Chapter 6 of our Program Policy Manual guides our work relative to children of American Indian Heritage.
