The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend current statutes related to child welfare by introducing new requirements for petitions to terminate parental rights or determine child dependency. Specifically, it would mandate that such petitions include a notarized affidavit from the petitioner confirming full disclosure and an exchange of all relevant information held by the Department of Child Safety (DCS). This affidavit must detail the information disclosed, the dates of disclosure, and the methods of delivery for the disclosed information. Additionally, the bill modifies existing procedures by requiring the court to order DCS to file a report within six months post-adjudication, indicating the child's dependency status and any changes in allegations or information.

Current law allows for petitions to be filed by DCS or interested parties but does not specify the need for a notarized affidavit or the detailed requirements for such an affidavit. The bill would replace some existing language with these new stipulations, enhancing the transparency and accountability of the process. Furthermore, it would make technical and conforming changes to ensure consistency across the statutes. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding child welfare proceedings by ensuring that all parties have access to pertinent information before decisions are made.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-533, 8-841, 8-844, 8-106, 8-106.01, 8-806, 13-1406, 13-1401, 8-455, 8-846, 95-608, 8-804
House Engrossed Version: 8-533, 8-841, 8-844, 8-106, 8-106.01, 8-806, 13-1406, 13-1401, 8-455, 8-846, 95-608, 8-804