This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 260E.03, subdivision 15, to clarify the definition of neglect in relation to child welfare. The bill specifies that neglect includes various forms of failure to provide necessary care for a child's physical, mental, or emotional health, as well as conditions that may endanger a child's well-being. It outlines specific actions or omissions that constitute neglect, such as failure to provide food, shelter, education, and medical care, as well as emotional harm resulting from certain behaviors.

Additionally, the bill introduces new legal language stating that a child should not be considered neglected solely because they remain in an emergency department or hospital due to the unavailability of necessary services, such as residential treatment, that are recommended by medical or mental health professionals. This provision aims to protect children who cannot be safely discharged to their families due to a lack of available resources, ensuring that their circumstances are not misinterpreted as neglect.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 260C.007
1st Engrossment: 260E.03