General Assembly Raised Bill No. 7071 proposes significant amendments to the definition and handling of "family with service needs" in section 46b-120 of the general statutes. The bill eliminates the previous requirement that petitions must be filed by June 30, 2020, and expands the definition to include children who are habitual truants or have been overtly defiant of school rules. It introduces provisions allowing parents or guardians to file complaints about their child's behavior, which will be assessed by a probation officer. If substantiated, the child and family may be referred to youth services or family support centers for a minimum of ninety days. The bill also outlines the petition process for the Superior Court, including the court's authority to issue summonses and order educational evaluations for habitual truants.

Additionally, the bill establishes new procedures for handling children at risk of physical harm and those involved in juvenile delinquency. It allows probation officers to file petitions for children in imminent risk, enabling court-authorized placements in staff-secure facilities for up to 45 days, with regular reviews. The legislation mandates the creation of family support centers to provide crisis intervention and mental health treatment, aiming to prevent further court involvement. It also updates the handling of juvenile delinquency complaints, allowing for nonjudicial dispositions and emphasizing the importance of providing services to families in need. Overall, Raised Bill No. 7071 seeks to enhance support for at-risk youth and their families while ensuring their rights and safety are prioritized.

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