KRS 620.130: Alternatives to removal from custody.

(1) In any proceeding under this chapter, when the court is petitioned to remove or

continue the removal of a child from the custody of his parent or other person

exercising custodial control or supervision, the court shall first consider whether the

child may be reasonably protected against the alleged dependency, neglect or abuse,

by alternatives less restrictive than removal. Such alternatives may include, but shall

not be limited to, the provision of medical, educational, psychiatric, psychological,

social work, counseling, day care, or homemaking services with monitoring

wherever necessary by the cabinet or other appropriate agency. Where the court

specifically finds that such alternatives are adequate to reasonably protect the child

against the alleged dep endency, neglect or abuse, the court shall not order the

removal or continued removal of the child.

(2) If the court orders the removal or continues the removal of the child, services

provided to the parent and the child shall be designed to promote the pr otection of

the child and the return of the child safely to the child's home as soon as possible.

The cabinet shall develop a treatment plan for each child designed to meet the needs

of the child. The cabinet may change the child's placement or treatment p lan as the

cabinet may require. The cabinet shall notify the committing court of the change, in

writing, within fourteen (14) days after the change has been implemented.