This bill amends Section 16-2005 of the Idaho Code, which outlines the conditions under which a court may grant the termination of parental rights. The revised provisions specify that termination may be granted if it is in the best interests of the child and if certain conditions are met, including abandonment, neglect, abuse, or the parent being unable to fulfill parental responsibilities. Notably, the bill introduces new language that allows for a rebuttable presumption that termination is in the child's best interests if the parent has caused the child to be conceived through rape or incest, or if there is a conviction for sexual abuse against any child. Additionally, it clarifies that the court cannot terminate parental rights based solely on the child's immunization status.

The bill also includes provisions for the acceptance of consents to termination from other states and outlines the process for hearings related to parental rights termination. It emphasizes the rights of parents with disabilities to present evidence on how adaptive equipment or supportive services can assist them in fulfilling their parenting responsibilities. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 16-2005