The bill establishes a Citizens' Review Panel for Permanency Planning in Alaska, aimed at improving oversight and support for children in state custody. It amends existing laws to incorporate local citizen out-of-home care review panels, which will be notified within 60 days of a child's removal from their home or a court's commitment order. The legislation outlines the structure and responsibilities of both state and local panels, including member appointments, terms, and the requirement for annual reporting to the legislature on their activities and recommendations for program improvements.

Additionally, the bill details the responsibilities of local panels in reviewing case plans for children in custody, ensuring that panel members have relevant experience in child welfare. It mandates written notice to involved parties before reviews and requires advisory reports with recommendations focused on the child's health and safety. The bill also includes provisions for the appointment of initial voting members to the panels, specifies staggered terms, and clarifies that communications made to local panel members are privileged. Furthermore, it allows courts to consider local panel reports during reviews and provides indemnification for panel members against civil liability for negligent acts performed in their official capacity. Several sections of existing law are repealed, and the bill outlines effective dates for its provisions.

Statutes affected:
SB0123A, AM SB 123, introduced 03/06/2025: 44.66.010, 47.10.401, 47.10.080, 47.10.421, 47.10.093, 47.10.010, 47.14.300, 47.17.020, 25.27.010, 47.05.360, 47.14.400, 47.10.142, 11.51.130, 18.85.030, 39.20.180, 47.10.411, 24.60.990, 47.10.431, 47.10.441, 47.14.100, U.S.C, 47.10.451, 47.10.461, 44.62.310, 47.10.491, 47.10.471, 47.10.481