The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding the rights of parents, guardians, or custodians under investigation for allegations of abuse or neglect by the Department of Child Safety (DCS). It would add new rights, including the right to be informed that they can delegate temporary guardianship of their child and the right to file a complaint or notify the juvenile court if they believe their rights are being violated. Additionally, the bill would modify existing language to clarify that parents must be informed of their rights and would remove the requirement for them to provide a signed attestation of understanding these rights.

Furthermore, the bill would introduce a new provision requiring DCS to ask parents, guardians, or custodians to identify adult relatives or significant persons who could provide safe placement for the child when initial contact occurs or when a child is placed in custody. It also clarifies that failure to provide written acknowledgment of rights does not waive any rights, and DCS must document compliance with this requirement in their case management system. Overall, these updates aim to enhance the rights and protections for parents and guardians during investigations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-809.01
House Engrossed Version: 8-809.01