In re Michael B.

I agree with Judge Kaye’s opinion for the Court that Social Services Law § 392 (6) (b) cannot be used to award permanent custody to foster parents within that statute’s intended operation and integrated structure. I concur in the reversal result in this case solely for that reason, noting additionally that a contrary interpretation of that key provision, as used by the Appellate Division, would have internally contradictory implications in the field of temporary foster child placement. While I prefer an affirmance result because that might more likely conclude the litigation and allow Michael…