Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] introduces provisions for the temporary protective placement of children facing "temporary hardship," allowing the Department of Public Health and Human Services to remove a child for a maximum of 15 days under such circumstances. The bill defines "temporary hardship" as any situation that impedes a caregiver's ability to provide necessary supervision and safety for the child. It mandates that children must be returned home within this timeframe unless the parent or guardian cannot ensure the child's safety, in which case the department may seek emergency protective services. The bill also amends several sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA), including notable deletions of definitions related to child abandonment, neglect, and abuse, aiming to streamline the definitions and clarify the roles of caregivers and the department.

Furthermore, the bill enhances the procedures for child protection services, emphasizing the responsibilities of child protection specialists in investigating reports of abuse or neglect, including conducting safety and risk assessments. It mandates immediate reporting to the county attorney in cases of sexual abuse or exploitation involving perpetrators aged 12 or older, while providing exceptions for victims seeking confidential services. The bill also outlines notification requirements for parents or guardians when a child is removed from their home, establishes timelines for hearings, and emphasizes the importance of family engagement in treatment plans. Overall, the amendments aim to improve the protective measures for children while ensuring that the rights of parents and guardians are respected throughout the process.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 41-3-102, 41-3-202, 41-3-301, 41-3-306
SB0384_1(1): 41-3-102, 41-3-202, 41-3-301, 41-3-306
SB0384_1(2): 41-3-102, 41-3-202, 41-3-301, 41-3-306
SB0384_1(3): 41-3-102, 41-3-202, 41-3-301, 41-3-306
SB0384_1: 41-3-102, 41-3-202, 41-3-301, 41-3-306