In order to prevent possible injuries to a child born to a drug/alcohol addicted mother, the County Social Welfare Board (Board) may make a decision for compulsory placement for the mother. Placement in an institution may last for the duration of the pregnancy. Such a decision can be implemented when it has been established that the child will be born with possible injuries as a result of the mother’s drug/alcohol abuse.
Compulsory actions will not be implemented if voluntary measures are sufficient. The board must perform an assessment which concludes with the finding that forced placement in an institution is reasonable and necessary.