(1) When DCYF places a child with a placement residing and licensed in another state, the DCYF caseworker must obtain the reimbursement rates from that state and DCYF will reimburse at that state's rates. If approved by the regional administrator or the regional administrator's designee, DCYF may reimburse an out-of-state foster care placement at Washington state rates if paying the Washington state rates is in the best interests of the child.

(2) The department's interstate compact on placement of children (ICPC) program manager must approve out-of-state placement before the department makes reimbursement for foster care.