The bill amends the Minnesota Indian Family Preservation Act to strengthen protections for Indian children during placement proceedings. It introduces new definitions and requirements for "active efforts" to preserve the family unit, emphasizing the involvement of the child's Tribe and extended family in placement decisions. The bill clarifies the roles of child-placing agencies and introduces terms such as "petitioner" and "tribal representative." It mandates that courts inquire about a child's potential Indian heritage at the beginning of proceedings and ensures that Tribes are notified and involved in assessments and case planning. Significant deletions from existing law include the removal of definitions and requirements that limited Tribal involvement, indicating a shift towards a more inclusive approach that prioritizes the best interests of Indian children.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of notifying parents, custodians, and Tribes about custody proceedings, requiring clear and understandable notice. It mandates that courts find active efforts to prevent family breakup before ordering placements or terminating parental rights, and allows Tribal representatives to participate in hearings electronically. The bill affirms the Tribe's exclusive jurisdiction over child placement proceedings when the child resides on the Tribe's reservation and requires courts to transfer jurisdiction to Tribal courts upon request unless there is good cause to deny the transfer. Other provisions include the appointment of counsel for Indian children and their parents, the establishment of placement preferences, and the introduction of grants to support Indian child welfare programs, all aimed at enhancing the rights and welfare of Indian families and ensuring compliance with federal standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 260.755, 260.775, 260.785, 611.216, 260.810, 260C.007, 260C.178, 260C.201, 260C.204, 260C.503, 260C.505, 260C.507, 260D.01, 260D.12
1st Engrossment: 260.755, 260.775, 260.785, 611.216, 260.810, 260C.007, 260C.178, 260C.201, 260C.204, 260C.503, 260C.505, 260C.507, 260D.01, 260D.12