The bill amends the Idaho Safe Haven Act by introducing new definitions and provisions related to the care and placement of abandoned children. It defines "Indian child" as any unmarried person under eighteen who is a member or citizen of an Indian tribe or eligible for membership and is the biological child of a member. The bill also allows for the voluntary disclosure of Indian tribe membership or citizenship by custodial parents when leaving a child at a safe haven. Additionally, it revises the process for the temporary custody of abandoned children, ensuring that safe havens can accept children through newborn safety devices and clarifying the responsibilities of safe havens in terms of child care and confidentiality.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Health and Welfare regarding the placement of abandoned children, requiring them to maintain a list of licensed adoption agencies and to transfer custody to an agency within twenty-four hours unless exigent circumstances arise. It also emphasizes the importance of adhering to the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) when a child is identified as an Indian child, mandating immediate notification to the relevant tribes. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 39-8202, 39-8203, 39-8204