This bill amends various sections of the Nebraska Revised Statutes to redefine terms and modify reporting requirements for suspected child abuse and neglect. A key provision allows minors of sufficient maturity to engage in independent activities without being classified as victims of child abuse or neglect. The bill clarifies definitions of child abuse and neglect, emphasizing a reasonable and prudent person's perspective in assessing a child's safety. It also establishes a comprehensive assessment process for evaluating child safety and outlines the roles and training requirements for mandatory reporters, expanding their definition to include more professionals and volunteers.

Additionally, the bill mandates that mandatory reporters complete training on child abuse and neglect within the first ninety days of employment and repeat it every two years. It requires the Department of Health and Human Services to create a free online training program by October 1, 2027, and to maintain a tracking system for child protection cases. The bill also clarifies that communications made during reporting are not privileged and can be used as evidence in court. Furthermore, it amends the Nebraska Juvenile Code to clarify jurisdiction over Indian children and establishes guidelines for terminating parental rights, ensuring that such actions cannot be based solely on a parent allowing a sufficiently mature juvenile to engage in 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