This legislative bill seeks to amend Nebraska's statutes concerning child abuse and neglect, introducing significant changes to definitions, reporting requirements, and investigation protocols. It redefines terms related to child abuse, expands the list of mandatory reporters, and mandates that these individuals complete training on child abuse and neglect within the first ninety days of employment and every two years thereafter. The bill also allows minors of sufficient maturity to engage in independent activities without being classified as victims of abuse or neglect, while clarifying that child abuse can occur when a reasonable person would recognize a danger to the child's life or health. Additionally, it establishes child abuse investigation and treatment teams in each county to enhance collaboration among law enforcement and child advocacy centers.

Moreover, the bill amends the Nebraska Juvenile Code to clarify jurisdiction over Indian children and the conditions for terminating parental rights. It specifies that the district court has exclusive jurisdiction for proceedings involving Indian children, and it allows for the termination of parental rights when it is in the best interests of the juvenile. The bill introduces a definition of "independent activities," which includes actions like traveling to school or playing outdoors, emphasizing that a juvenile's maturity is assessed based on their social, emotional, cognitive, and developmental abilities. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen child protection measures while ensuring that parental rights are not unjustly compromised based on a child's ability to engage in age-appropriate independent activities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 28-101, 28-707, 28-710, 28-711, 28-714, 28-715, 28-716, 28-728, 28-729, 43-247, 43-292