Bill > HB694

This bill revises Montana's laws related to child abuse and neglect by updating two key sections of state law. The bill strengthens the state's policy declaration regarding child protection, emphasizing the importance of preserving family unity while ensuring child safety. It clarifies that children should not be removed from their homes solely based on allegations of abuse or neglect without reasonable cause to suspect imminent harm. The bill introduces a voluntary registry to help notify close relatives when a child is removed from their home and requires the department to investigate potential safety risks of placement homes. Additionally, the bill modifies placement preferences for children in foster care or adoption, prioritizing placement with extended family, community members, or families with similar ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds. Notably, the bill explicitly disfavors placements outside of the United States, with an exception for cases involving Native American children under specific welfare act provisions. The changes aim to balance child safety, family preservation, and maintaining a child's cultural connections while providing clear guidelines for child welfare professionals when making placement decisions.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC3435