Bill > SB0035

This bill modifies Michigan's child protection law regarding mandatory reporting of newborn infants exposed to substances. It requires healthcare professionals and other mandatory reporters to notify the Department of Health and Human Services when a newborn infant is affected by any amount of alcohol, controlled substance, or substance metabolite. The department must then develop a comprehensive "plan of safe care" to address the needs of both the infant and parents, ensuring services are provided during and after pregnancy. The bill clarifies that a report is only required if the substance exposure threatens the infant's health or welfare, not simply by the presence of substances in the infant's system. Importantly, the notification requirement applies even if the substance exposure results from medical treatment given to the birth parent. The bill aims to protect vulnerable newborns while providing a nuanced approach to substance exposure, focusing on the infant's actual well-being rather than automatic reporting for any trace of substances. The legislation aligns with federal child abuse prevention guidelines by emphasizing support and care planning over punitive measures.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-SB-0035