The proposed bill seeks to improve the legal processes related to the care of children under two years of age who require care, emphasizing the need for timely permanency. It mandates that permanency for these children be achieved within 12 months of their out-of-home placement and requires the Secretary for Children and Families to work with the judicial branch to implement expedited procedures. Key amendments include a permanency hearing to be held within three months of a child's removal, a presumption against transferring venue without good cause, and a prohibition on continuances unless justified. The bill also redefines "permanent home" to align with existing definitions of "permanency," highlighting the urgency of appropriate placements for young children.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing laws regarding the termination of parental rights and the processes for achieving permanency. It ensures that requirements for permanency hearings continue until an adoption or permanent custodian is appointed, allowing courts to rescind prior orders if reasonable efforts for placement are not made. The legislation also facilitates the consolidation of child in need of care cases with civil custody cases, prioritizing custody orders from these consolidated cases. It includes provisions for the court to inquire about pending civil custody cases and mandates the filing of custody orders in related cases while maintaining confidentiality for sensitive information. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2027, after its publication.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 38-2204, 38-2251, 38-2246, 38-2253, 38-2264
As Amended by House Committee: 38-2202, 38-2204, 38-2251, 38-2246, 38-2253, 38-2264