The bill amends the definition of "neglected child" in the Abuse and Neglect Act to provide a clearer framework for identifying children in need of protection. It specifies that a neglected child is one who has been abandoned, lacks essential care due to the behaviors of their parent or guardian, has been abused or neglected, or whose caregiver is unable to fulfill their responsibilities due to various incapacities. Importantly, the bill also clarifies that a child is not considered neglected solely due to their caregiver's inadequate financial resources or circumstances such as poverty, social isolation, or cultural practices within their community.

Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for caseworkers when a child is placed in custody. It mandates that caseworkers make reasonable efforts to assist the child's parent or guardian in obtaining necessary resources to meet the child's basic needs before placing the child in custody. If the only reason for custody is the caregiver's financial inadequacy, the child must be released once the caregiver accepts resources that enable them to provide for the child. This approach aims to prioritize family support and reunification while ensuring the child's well-being is safeguarded.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 32A-4-2, 32A-4-7, 32A-4-22