This bill proposes the creation of a new section in chapter 27-20.3 of the North Dakota Century Code that mandates drug testing for parents in specific circumstances related to child protection cases. If a child is determined to be in need of protection due to the abuse of controlled substances or the presence of drug paraphernalia, the human service zone will require the parent to pass a drug test before allowing unsupervised visits with the child. Additionally, the Department of Health and Human Services may mandate further drug testing as necessary for safety planning. Notably, the bill specifies that these provisions do not apply to marijuana.
Furthermore, the bill includes an appropriation of $95,000 from the general fund to the Department of Health and Human Services to facilitate the implementation of drug testing by human service zones for the biennium from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027. This funding aims to support the new requirements established by the bill and ensure the safety and well-being of children in these situations.