HB 140 Summary

• Establishes a right for parties to demand a jury trial in Alaska child welfare proceedings involving termination of parental rights under AS 47.10.

• When adjudication and termination hearings are consolidated, the jury trial right applies only to the termination phase after the court has adjudicated the child is in need of aid.

• Modifies AS 47.10.088 to specify that findings of fact and determinations in termination cases may be made by a jury instead of solely by the court.

• Amends Alaska Child in Need of Aid Rules of Procedure (Rules 18(b), 18(e), and 18(g)) to incorporate jury trial procedures for termination hearings and require trials within six months of filing.

• Applies to petitions to terminate parental rights filed on or after the effective date of the Act.