This bill introduces significant updates to the policies and programs administered by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families in Minnesota, with a particular focus on enhancing services for African American children and families. A key provision is the establishment of the African American Child and Family Well-Being Advisory Council, which will consist of 31 members with lived experience in African American communities. The council's responsibilities include reviewing child welfare outcomes and making recommendations for culturally appropriate practices. Additionally, the bill implements new data privacy measures for the Great Start compensation support payment program and modifies existing laws to ensure responsible social services agencies actively seek noncustodial parents and relatives before placing children in foster care.

The legislation also emphasizes the importance of children's cultural backgrounds in protective services, requiring inquiries about a child's heritage during assessments. It updates the definition of "habitual truant" and mandates courts to make explicit findings regarding a child's welfare before ordering foster care placements. Furthermore, the bill enhances the court review process for children in foster care, ensuring detailed reports on their transition to adulthood and eligibility for extended foster care. It also establishes guidelines for concurrent permanency planning and mandates personalized transition plans for youth aging out of the system. Overall, the amendments aim to improve the welfare and stability of children in the foster care system while ensuring their rights and cultural identities are respected.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 142A.03, 142D.21, 260.65, 260.66, 260.691, 260.692, 260C.001, 260C.007, 260C.141, 260C.150, 260C.178, 260C.201, 260C.202, 260C.204, 260C.212, 260C.223, 260C.329, 260C.451, 260C.452, 260E.09, 260E.20, 260E.24