AL HB136

Adds Section 30-3-11 to Alabama Code to authorize circuit or district courts to issue emergency ex parte orders of protection or restraint when there is specific evidence of child abuse or neglect as defined in Section 26-14-1.

Allows courts to order removal of a child from parents or legal custodians and place the child with an appropriate relative, or if no suitable relative exists, with the Department of Human Resources for temporary protective custody.

Requires courts to make specific findings that no parent or legal custodian can provide appropriate care and protection and that remaining in the home is contrary to the child's welfare.

Mandates immediate verbal and written notice and order copies be given to the Department of Human Resources, which must then proceed under Chapter 14 of Title 26 and may authorize medical, dental, health, and hospital services for the child.

Emergency ex parte orders remain in effect until the juvenile court conducts a hearing under Section 12-15-308 on a petition filed by a relative, the Department of Human Resources, or the issuing court; the juvenile court may then ratify or modify the order.

Act becomes effective June 1, 2024.