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Bill > SB384


MT SB384

MT SB384
Establish temporary hardship law


summary

Introduced
02/20/2025
In Committee
02/21/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
05/23/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

AN ACT ENTITLED: “AN ACT PROVIDING FOR PROTECTIVE PLACEMENT OF A CHILD DUE TO TEMPORARY HARDSHIP; ALLOWING THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES TO REMOVE A CHILD FOR REASONS OF TEMPORARY HARDSHIP; REQUIRING THAT THE CHILD MUST BE RETURNED HOME WITHIN 15 DAYS; REQUIRING NOTIFICATION; PROVIDING AN EXCEPTION TO THE TIMELINE FOR A HEARING ON EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE SERVICES; AND AMING SECTIONS 41-3-102, 41-3-202, 41-3-301, AND 41-3-306, MCA.”

AI Summary

This bill establishes a new legal provision for temporary child protective placement due to hardship, allowing the Department of Public Health and Human Services to remove a child from their home for up to 15 days when parents are temporarily unable to provide care. The bill defines "temporary hardship" as physical, medical, or legal circumstances that prevent parents or guardians from providing proper child safety and supervision. If parents cannot resume or arrange for the child's care within 15 days, the department may file a petition for emergency protective services. The bill amends several existing statutes to include this new temporary hardship provision, specifying notification requirements for parents, including informing them about the procedures and their rights during the removal process. The legislation aims to provide a structured, time-limited mechanism for child protective services to intervene in situations where parents are experiencing short-term challenges that impact their ability to care for their children, while ensuring prompt reunification or further legal action if necessary.

Committee Categories

Health and Social Services

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

(S) Died in Process (on 05/23/2025)

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