ICPC is statutory uniform law in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands. It is intended to ensure the protection of children who are placed across state lines for foster care and adoption. It strives to ensure responsibility and communication among all parties involved until lawful termination. Procedures for the interstate and intercountry placement of children are intended to ensure that the proposed placement is in compliance with state laws and regulations and is not contrary to the interests of the child.

The Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Social Services, through the the Division of Family Services, is responsible for approving and monitoring interstate placements of children.

The Code of Virginia, Title 63.2, Chapters 10 and 11 contain the text of ICPC. Section 63.2-1104 addresses the interstate/intercountry placement of children into Virginia, and Section 63.2-1105 is applicable to the placement of Virginia children out of the Commonwealth.

ICPC applies to four types of situations in which children may be sent to other states:

• Placement preliminary to an adoption
• Placement into foster care, including foster homes, group homes, residential treatment facilities, and child-caring institutions
• Placement with parents and/or specified relatives when a parent or specified relative is not making the placement
• Placement of adjudicated delinquents into private institutions in other states

Note: For further information about a specific state's procedures, requirements, interpretations and ICPS applications e-mail vaicpcoffice@dss.virginia.gov.