Bill > HB1564

This bill amends North Dakota's Indian child welfare laws to clarify and strengthen protections for Indian children in custody proceedings. The bill comprehensively updates definitions and procedures related to Indian child welfare, including expanding the definition of "active efforts" to require more thorough and culturally sensitive support for Indian families facing potential child removal. Key changes include adding more specific requirements for emergency removals, such as mandating detailed documentation and ensuring that removals are immediately terminated when no longer necessary. The bill also clarifies placement preferences for Indian children, emphasizing the importance of keeping children connected to their tribal communities and extended families. New provisions allow for more tribal involvement in custody proceedings, including explicit rights to intervene and transfer jurisdiction. The bill also modifies notification requirements, expert witness standards, and adoption record-keeping processes to better protect the rights and cultural connections of Indian children and their families. Overall, the amendments aim to ensure that child welfare proceedings involving Indian children are conducted with greater cultural sensitivity, respect for tribal connections, and a presumption of maintaining family unity.

Government Affairs

https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/bill-overview/bo1564.html