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This notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) seeks public suggestions in particular from State and Tribal title IV-E agencies and Indian tribes, Tribal organizations and consortiums, for streamlining the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS) data elements and removing any undue burden related to reporting AFCARS.

Statement of Need:

The reporting requirements for the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS) have doubled in the past year. In an effort to ensure that an appropriate balance is achieved between reporting burden and administering high-quality programs that provide services to children and families. By engaging in this rulemaking process, the public and stakeholders will be afforded an opportunity to provide input on what data collections are most useful to the administration of child welfare programs.

Summary of the Legal Basis:

Section 479 of the Social Security Act requires HHS regulate a national data collection system which provides comprehensive information on adopted and foster children and their parents.

Alternatives:

None. This rule implements statutory requirements.

Anticipated Costs and Benefits:

An estimate of costs to States to modify their existing data systems is not available at this time.

Risks:

None.