Bill > H560

This bill introduces several provisions related to parental rights and child welfare, primarily focusing on protecting parents who raise children according to their biological sex. Specifically, the bill prevents child welfare agencies from filing abuse or neglect petitions against parents solely for raising a child consistent with their biological sex or using pronouns aligned with their biological sex. In adoption and foster care contexts, the bill prohibits agencies from denying or delaying placements based on prospective parents' refusal to support a child's gender transition. The legislation also modifies child abuse statutes to clarify that raising a child in accordance with their biological sex, including making related medical and mental health decisions, does not constitute child abuse or serious mental injury. These changes apply to existing and future cases in child welfare, adoption, and foster care systems, with most provisions becoming effective immediately upon becoming law, while the child abuse statute modifications will take effect on July 1, 2025. The bill aims to provide legal protection for parents who choose to raise children in alignment with their biological sex and prevent potential legal challenges based on gender identity decisions.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services, Justice

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H560