Kentucky’s statutes and regulations pertaining to child protective services (CPS) address circumstances under which drug testing of parents or caregivers may occur. These laws dictate the parameters for initiating and conducting such tests when substance abuse is suspected as a factor impacting a child’s safety and well-being. The primary focus rests on ensuring the child’s protection from neglect or abuse stemming from parental or caregiver drug use.
The implementation of these regulations aims to safeguard children and provide avenues for intervention and support to families struggling with substance abuse. Historically, the concern over the impact of parental substance abuse on child welfare has driven the development and refinement of these legal frameworks. The intention is to balance the need for child safety with the rights and responsibilities of parents, promoting family stability and reunification when possible. These provisions also emphasize accessing treatment and support services for individuals struggling with addiction, offering a path towards a stable and drug-free environment for their children.