This bill amends several sections of the Idaho Code concerning juvenile proceedings, particularly focusing on review hearings, definitions, and conditions for the termination of parental rights. A significant change is the adjustment of review hearing frequency from every six months to every two months after the initial court order. The definition of "legal custody" is updated, and the timeframe for filing a petition for termination of parental rights is reduced from fifteen months to twelve months of custody, with certain exceptions. The bill also highlights the importance of educational stability, sibling placements, and youth involvement in permanency discussions, mandating courts to inquire about children's educational situations and sibling interactions during hearings.

Additionally, the bill introduces new criteria for assessing the best interests of the child in termination cases, including the parent's reunification efforts and the psychological impact on the child if removed from a strong bond with a substitute caretaker. It clarifies definitions related to child custody and parental rights, such as "abandoned" and "guardianship of the person," and emphasizes the rights of parents with disabilities to present evidence on how supportive services can aid their parenting. The bill is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025, following an emergency declaration.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 16-1622, 16-2002, 16-2005