HB1848 Summary

• Amends the definition of "abandonment" to include failure to support or maintain regular contact with a child without just cause, and articulated intent to forego parental responsibility.

• Expands "aggravated circumstances" to include sexual exploitation and adds a new category for children neglected or abused such that the abuse could endanger the child's life.

• Adds human trafficking victims as a category of dependent juveniles, with clarification that children are dependent-neglected if the parent knew or should have known of the trafficking.

• Creates "temporary custody" and "permanent custody" definitions as distinct permanency dispositions, with temporary custody used during case pendency when services are provided to achieve case plan goals.

• Establishes comprehensive foster youth transition requirements including development of transitional plans by age 17, provision of documents and records before case closure, and continued court jurisdiction to ensure compliance with transition services.