This bill establishes a permanent program known as the project to preserve families (PPF), replacing the previous pilot project aimed at implementing innovative models of legal representation for families involved in the child welfare system. The state public defender (SPD) is mandated to administer and maintain the PPF, which focuses on achieving positive outcomes for families, reducing trauma to young children, and providing financial benefits to families and their communities. The SPD may coordinate with other agencies and organizations, seek grant funding, and analyze the outcomes of the PPF.

Under the new provisions, the SPD has the authority to appoint attorneys to represent indigent individuals prior to formal proceedings if deemed appropriate and related to the PPF's objectives. The bill also allows the SPD to adopt rules to effectively administer the PPF. The previous expiration date of June 30, 2025, for the pilot project is removed, signifying the transition to a continuous program aimed at supporting families in the child welfare system.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13B.13