House Bill 690 seeks to revise child abuse and neglect laws in Montana by clarifying definitions and enhancing confidentiality provisions related to child welfare records. The bill specifies that the term "abused or neglected" does not include children raised in a manner consistent with their biological sex, particularly concerning mental health or medical decisions. It also emphasizes that a parent cannot be found guilty of neglect solely based on their religious beliefs regarding healthcare, while still allowing state intervention in cases of imminent risk of serious harm. The bill introduces new definitions for terms such as "physical neglect" and "psychological harm to a child," and outlines the responsibilities of child protection specialists and the importance of family engagement meetings.

Additionally, the bill addresses the rights of members of Congress and the Montana Legislature regarding access to child welfare records, stipulating that requests must include specific information and require a signed confidentiality form. It prevents the disclosure of information protected by attorney-client privilege while allowing for challenges to such designations in district court. The bill also outlines the process for disclosing records to various officials, including the attorney general and county attorneys, particularly in serious cases, while maintaining confidentiality. Overall, House Bill 690 aims to balance the need for confidentiality in child welfare cases with the necessity for transparency and accountability among legislative members and child protection officials.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_1(1): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_1(2): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_1(3): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_1(4): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_1(5): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_1(6): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_1: 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_X(1): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_X(10): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_X(11): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_X(12): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_X(13): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_X(2): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_X(3): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_X(4): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_X(5): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_X(6): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_X(7): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_X(8): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_X(9): 41-3-102, 41-3-205
HB0690_X: 41-3-102, 41-3-205