Bill > HB2041

This bill amends Arizona law to clarify circumstances under which a parent, guardian, or custodian will not be considered to have abused or neglected a child. Specifically, it adds a provision stating that a parent cannot be charged with abuse or neglect solely because they are unable to provide a child with supervision, food, clothing, shelter, or medical care if this inability is solely due to a lack of financial resources. This means that poverty alone will not be the basis for child neglect charges. The bill also retains existing provisions that protect parents who refuse psychiatric medication for their child or who seek inpatient treatment or out-of-home placement for a child with behavioral health needs that pose a risk to the family.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/83599