AZ SB1655

Establishes that prenatal substance exposure, withdrawal symptoms, or fetal alcohol spectrum disorder alone cannot form the basis for abuse or neglect allegations, child safety investigations, arrests, or penalties against pregnant women or parents.

Diverts reports involving only prenatal substance exposure or fetal alcohol spectrum disorder to the Department of Health Services rather than creating child safety investigations, unless other abuse or neglect factors are present.

Creates the Substance Exposed Pregnancy and Newborn Advisory Council within the Department of Health Services to develop rules for plans of safe care for affected newborns and recommend evidence-based treatment programs for pregnant patients.

Appropriates $30 million from the state general fund for fiscal year 2025-2026 to fund substance exposed pregnancy and newborn pilot program grants through June 30, 2031.

Requires health professionals to notify the Department of Health Services (rather than automatically triggering child safety reports) when a newborn shows signs of prenatal substance exposure, and mandates development of deidentified notification procedures and safe care plans.