Provides that courts are required to appoint counsel for eligible children with certain exceptions. Provides that a county may seek reimbursement up to 100% for expenditures related to attorney services for eligible children. Requires the commission on court appointed attorneys to: (1) establish certain guidelines for counties to be eligible for reimbursement from the public defense fund; and (2) make a report to the legislative council and budget committee not later than December 1, 2026, regarding the 100% reimbursement for attorney services provided to eligible children. Makes an appropriation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced House Bill (H): 33-40-5-4, 33-40-6-5