AL HB340

Requires the State Department of Human Resources to provide written notification to parents and legal custodians under investigation for child abuse or neglect, informing them of the investigation and their due process rights.

Grants investigated individuals the right to review and copy investigation documents at no cost, record interviews in which they are present, be represented by legal counsel, and withhold consent to home entry, medical examinations, and drug tests without a court order.

Mandates that all department employees involved in child abuse and neglect investigations complete training on investigation techniques and family preservation services before participating in investigations or child removals.

Requires the department to adopt uniform policies and rules for investigations, establish procedures to address noncompliant county departments, and prepare annual reports to the Legislature detailing investigation outcomes, placements, and reunifications.

Requires family preservation services be offered before child removal unless imminent risk exists, with priority given to kinship placements and ongoing parental involvement in medical and educational decisions; effective October 1, 2025.